Key Takeaways
- The cost of childcare in Singapore varies depending on factors such as the type of centre, your child’s age, and available funding support.
- Different programmes cater to different stages of development; from nurturing infant care to structured childcare that supports independence, social skills, and learning.
- Every centre has its own curriculum and learning approach, so it is important to find one that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.
- Starting your search early, preparing the necessary documents, and visiting centres can help you make an informed choice and secure a suitable place.
Introduction
Finding the right childcare centre is an important decision for many parents in Singapore. You want a place where your child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn each day, while also meeting practical considerations such as budget and location.
However, with different fee structures, programme types, and enrolment timelines to consider, the process can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials to help you make a confident choice with greater peace of mind.
How Much Does Childcare Cost in Singapore?
Cost is one of the key considerations for many families when choosing a childcare centre. Fees can vary depending on factors such as your child’s age, the type of operator, programme offerings, and available subsidies. Understanding the typical fee structure can help you plan ahead and make an informed decision when starting your child’s early learning journey.
Fees Across Different Operators
Childcare centres in Singapore typically fall into three categories:
1. Anchor Operators (AOPs)
Fees (excluding GST) are capped at:
- Full-day childcare: $610
- Full-day infant care: $1,235
- Kindergarten: $150
These centres receive higher levels of government funding and are subject to stricter fee caps. This makes them a more accessible option for many families, while still maintaining clear standards for curriculum and educator development.
2. Partner Operator (POPs)
Fees (excluding GST) are capped at:
- Full-day childcare: $650
- Full-day infant care: $1,290
POP centres also receive government support and operate within regulated fee caps. Fees are slightly higher than AOP centres, but they continue to meet consistent quality benchmarks.
3. Private operators
These centres set their own fees without government-regulated fee caps. Costs are typically higher, often reflecting enhanced facilities, smaller class sizes, or more specialised learning approaches.
What to Consider Beyond Monthly Fees
Families may be eligible for the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) Infant and Childcare Subsidy Scheme. This typically includes a Basic Subsidy (up to $600 for infant care and $300 for childcare) for working mothers, as well as an Additional Subsidy for families with a gross monthly household income of up to $15,000.
Beyond subsidies, it is also important to look closely at what the fees include. Some centres cover meals, learning materials, and daily essentials, while others charge these items separately. There may also be additional costs such as registration fees, uniforms, or enrichment programmes.
Always check with the centre for a full breakdown of costs upfront so you can make a more informed and confident decision.
At E-Bridge Pre-School, we aim to provide quality early childhood education while supporting accessibility for families. Parents may refer to our guide on childcare fees for more details and information on available subsidies.
Types of Childcare Programmes Available
Infant Care: Building Early Security and Trust
If your child is between 2 and 18 months old, an infant care centre can provide the support they need at this early stage. Educators focus on consistent, responsive caregiving to help your child feel safe and secure. Daily routines centre on feeding, rest, and simple sensory experiences that support early development and build trust.
At E-Bridge, our infant care programme is designed around these same principles, with educators providing a nurturing and supportive environment that aligns with each child’s developmental needs during this important stage.
Childcare Programmes: Supporting Growth and Independence
For children between 18 months and 6 years old, childcare centres support their transition into more structured learning and social environments. At this stage, educators support early literacy and numeracy through play-based learning. Children learn to communicate, interact with others, and explore new ideas while gradually building confidence and independence in a group setting.
Full-Day, Half-Day, and Flexible Options
When selecting a childcare centre, consider how well the programme aligns with your work schedule and caregiving needs. Full-day care is often preferred by working parents who require longer hours to cover the workday and commute time, while half-day options may suit families who want a gentler transition into a structured environment.
Some centres also offer extended or flexible care arrangements, which can be helpful on days when work commitments change or run later than expected.
Curriculum Approaches and Learning Philosophy
It is also important to understand each childcare centre’s approach to learning. Some centres follow frameworks aligned with the Ministry of Education (MOE), with a structured focus around early literacy, numeracy, and school readiness. Others adopt more child-centred approaches, such as Reggio Emilia-inspired programmes, where children learn through exploration, creativity, and their own interests.
Taking time to understand these differences can help you choose an approach that aligns with your child’s learning needs and your expectations for their early development.
What to Prepare Before Enrolling Your Child
Once you have shortlisted your preferred childcare centres, the next step is to get ready for enrolment. A little preparation can help the process go more smoothly and reduce last-minute stress, especially if your chosen centres have limited vacancies or waiting lists.
What Is the Childcare Enrolment Process Like?
After you have chosen a suitable centre, you can usually register your interest directly with them. If there are no immediate vacancies or if you are planning for a later start date, your child may be placed on a waitlist.
The centre will then guide you through the next steps. This typically includes confirming available start dates, explaining fee details after government subsidies, and sharing any deposit requirements to secure a place.
Some centres may also invite you and your child for an orientation or short visit. This helps your child become familiar with the environment and makes the transition into childcare feel more comfortable.
Preparing Documents and Applications
To finalise an enrolment, you will need to provide digital or physical copies of the following:
- Child’s Documents: Birth Certificate and a valid passport (for non-citizens).
- Parental ID: NRIC (for Singaporeans/PRs) or FIN card.
- Health Records: Proof of immunisation from the National Immunisation Registry (NIR).
- Proof of Employment: Latest payslips or CPF contribution history (required for subsidy applications).
Most preschools will share their own enrolment checklist and forms with you, so it is helpful to check with the centre early to make sure you have everything ready.
Evaluating Centres During Visits
Visiting the centre in person gives you valuable insight into what your child’s day-to-day experience may look like. Beyond facilities and physical spaces, it is equally important to observe how the centre operates on a daily basis.
Pay attention to how educators interact with children. Do they speak to children at eye level? Are they responsive when support is needed? These small but meaningful interactions often reflect the centre’s overall approach to care and relationship building.
It can also be helpful to understand how the centre supports both learning and wellbeing. This may include how learning is planned across different age groups, how children are supported when settling into a new environment, and how their progress is observed and shared with families. Parents may also wish to understand practical aspects such as educator-to-child ratios, communication channels with families, and how daily needs like meals and snacks are managed, as well as how the centre handles situations when a child is unwell.
All licensed centres follow ECDA childcare regulations, which set standards for safety, staffing, and programme quality. However, how these standards are implemented may vary across centres. Visiting in person helps you assess whether the environment feels structured, responsive, and suitable for your child’s needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right childcare centre is an important step in shaping your child’s early experiences. Beyond fees and practical considerations, the most important factor is finding a place where your child feels safe, respected, and supported to grow at their own pace.
At E-Bridge, we believe every child deserves a strong start. As part of the Anchor Operator preschool programme, we provide accessible, high-quality early years education that values each child’s individuality and natural curiosity. Register your interest with us today.