
Childcare, preschool, and kindergarten – you might have heard these three terms being mentioned while researching for the best early learning approach for your little ones.
These terms might sound similar, but they offer varied learning experiences for you and your children – depending on your needs and preferences.
Here’s a quick look at some factors that set them apart.
What are Preschool, Kindergarten and Childcare?
Preschools in Singapore
Early childhood education (ECE) refers to the structured learning and developmental activities provided to children from birth up to the age of 6. This foundational period plays a critical role in shaping a child’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. In Singapore, ECE is categorised into three main segments: preschool, childcare, and kindergarten, all of which fall under the regulatory framework of the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA). An excellent preschool not only offers you peace of mind but also creates a nurturing environment for your child's development. Additionally, subsidies can assist in reducing the financial burden of fees.
Preschool is an umbrella term for educational institutions that offer early learning opportunities to young children before they begin formal schooling. The goal of a preschool is to foster a child’s curiosity and foundational skills in preparation for primary school. Preschools offer both play-based and structured learning activities that aid in cognitive and social development.
In Singapore, preschool caters to children between 18 months to 6 years old. These early years are a crucial developmental stage where children learn through play, interaction, and guided instruction.
Parents in Singapore can choose between half-day and full-day preschool programmes, depending on their family’s needs and preferences:
- Half-Day Programme: Typically lasts for about 3 to 6 hours between 7am to 1pm, often in the morning, focusing on early learning activities, playtime, and social interaction.
- Full-Day Programme: Can range from 7 to 12 hours between 7am to 7pm, combining academic activities with meals, nap times, and extended care, providing a more holistic environment for working parents who need longer care hours.
Preschools in Singapore are generally divided into two categories:
- Childcare Centres: These cater to working families by offering full-day or half-day care programmes. Childcare centres not only provide early education but also offer essential care services such as meals and rest periods.
- Kindergartens: Typically, kindergartens offer shorter hours of learning, focusing primarily on academic preparation for primary school. They usually operate for a few hours each day, five days a week.

Childcare in Singapore
Childcare refers to early education and care services provided for children from infancy (2 - 17 months) to 6 years old. Childcare centres in Singapore offer a structured environment where children engage in both learning and play activities while receiving essential care services like meals and rest time. Unlike kindergartens, which focus primarily on academic readiness, childcare centres provide comprehensive full-day or half-day programmes that cater to the developmental needs of children whose parents require care services during working hours.
Childcare centres in Singapore typically accept children from 18 months to 6 years old, with some centres offering infant care programmes for babies as young as 2 to 17 months old. These centres aim to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can grow and develop in their early years.
Parents can choose between half-day and full-day programmes based on their child’s needs and the family’s schedule:
- Full-Day Programme: Most full-day childcare programmes run from 7am to 7 pm, which includes meals, nap time, and a variety of learning and play activities. Full-day programmes are designed to provide comprehensive care for children, making them an ideal option for working parents.
- Half-Day Programme: Half-day programmes generally operate from 7 am to 1 pm, ending just before nap time for children staying for full-day care. These programmes still include morning learning sessions and meal times, but they provide a shorter duration of care.
Childcare centres provide two main meals — breakfast and lunch, as well as morning and afternoon snacks. Meals are typically nutritious and planned according to dietary guidelines for young children. Parents may want to check with individual centres to understand their meal plans and whether any additional snacks are provided. Children attending full-day programmes also have designated nap times, which are built into the daily schedule to ensure that they get sufficient rest amidst their learning and play activities.
Childcare centres in Singapore operate all year-round, unlike kindergartens that follow a term-based schedule. They are generally closed only on Sundays, public holidays, and have up to six closure days annually for staff development, lesson planning, and selected public holidays. These closures ensure that educators stay updated with the latest teaching practices and can maintain a high standard of care.
Childcare centres provide an excellent solution for working parents, offering a blend of education, care, and convenience, and often taking on a broader role in supporting the holistic development of children.
Kindergartens in Singapore
Kindergarten is a structured early learning programme designed to prepare children for primary school. It caters to children from 3 to 6 years old, focusing on building foundational skills such as literacy, numeracy, and social interaction. The curriculum is more academically focused compared to other early childhood education settings like childcare centres.
In Singapore, most kindergartens enrol children between the ages of 3 and 6 years old. The programmes are typically divided into different levels based on age:
- Nursery: 3-4 years old
- Kindergarten 1 (K1): 4-5 years old
- Kindergarten 2 (K2): 5-6 years old
These programmes are designed to develop essential skills needed for primary school, including language, numeracy, and problem-solving abilities.
Most kindergartens operate for about 3 to 4 hours a day, either in the morning or afternoon. This shorter duration is designed to concentrate on academic lessons and structured activities. Unlike childcare centres, which offer full-day care, kindergartens focus more on educational development and less on extended care services.
Many kindergartens do not include meals as part of the daily programme, though some may offer snacks. Parents are often required to prepare and pack snack boxes for their children. It’s important to check with the specific kindergarten about their meal policies.
Kindergartens generally follow the primary school holiday schedule, with breaks in March, June, September, and November/December. For working parents, this may pose a challenge as kindergartens do not provide care during these holiday periods, unlike childcare centres which offer full-year programmes.
There are two main types of kindergartens in Singapore: MOE Kindergartens and Private Kindergartens.
- MOE Kindergarten: Operated by the Ministry of Education (MOE), these kindergartens aim to provide affordable, high-quality preschool education. MOE Kindergartens follow a bilingual curriculum that emphasises both English and Mother Tongue languages. The curriculum is designed to align closely with the primary school system to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, MOE Kindergartens operate for 4 hours daily, either in the morning or afternoon.
- Private Kindergarten: Private kindergartens, which are often run by private operators or organisations, have more flexibility in their curriculum. While they still adhere to the guidelines set by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA), private kindergartens may offer a wider range of teaching approaches, such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia-inspired programmes. The fees for private kindergartens are generally higher compared to MOE kindergartens, and the operating hours can vary but are typically in the range of 3 to 4 hours daily.
Choosing between MOE and private kindergartens depends on various factors, including location, curriculum preference, and the level of academic focus you are seeking for your child.

Curriculum in Preschool, Kindergarten and Childcare
Curriculum refers to the structured framework that outlines the learning goals, teaching methods, activities, and assessments used in an educational setting. It serves as a blueprint for what children are expected to learn and how they will be taught. The curriculum provides a cohesive approach to ensure that essential developmental areas such as cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and language skills.
A well-designed curriculum is vital for several reasons:
1. Structured Learning Pathways
The early years of a child’s life are critical for development, and a curriculum provides a clear, structured approach to nurturing essential skills. In preschools, kindergartens, and childcare centres, the curriculum helps guide educators in what to teach and when, ensuring that every child is exposed to appropriate learning experiences for their age and developmental stage.
2. Holistic Child Development
A comprehensive curriculum addresses not only academic readiness (such as numeracy and literacy) but also critical social, emotional, and physical development. This balanced approach ensures that children are well-prepared for the challenges of formal schooling and life beyond the classroom.
3. Consistency and Quality
A curriculum ensures that teaching practices and learning outcomes are consistent across different classrooms and settings. Whether in preschool, kindergarten, or childcare, a standardised curriculum promotes quality education, ensuring that every child, regardless of the program they attend, receives a similar foundation of learning and development.
4. Preparation for Primary School
For both kindergartens and preschools, the curriculum serves the crucial function of preparing children for the transition to primary school. By introducing children to basic academic concepts and fostering important social skills, the curriculum helps ease this shift and sets the stage for success in formal education.
5. Guiding Educators and Parents
A curriculum acts as a guide for educators, helping them understand the developmental milestones children should reach and the methods to best support their learning. It also helps parents understand the goals of the educational programme and how they can support their child’s development at home.
Preschool Curriculum: What is the Best Curriculum to Teach Preschool-Aged Children?
Preschool curricula aim to create an engaging, nurturing environment where children can develop foundational skills. There are several popular curriculum types in preschools that cater to different learning styles:
- Play-Based Curriculum: Encourages learning through play and interaction with peers.
- Montessori Method: Focuses on self-directed activities, allowing children to learn at their own pace.
- Reggio Emilia Approach: Promotes creative learning through project-based exploration and self-expression.
- HighScope Curriculum: Emphasises active learning, where children plan, carry out, and review their activities.
- Waldorf Education: Integrates arts, imagination, and nature-based activities for holistic development.
- Bilingual Curriculum: Develops proficiency in two languages, typically English and a second language.
Preschools employ a variety of learning approaches, including child-centered learning, where children explore based on their interests, and teacher-guided learning, which provides structured lessons. Experiential learning, which involves hands-on activities, is common, as is collaborative learning, where children work together in group activities.
Learning Outcomes for Preschool-Aged Children:
- Cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and early literacy
- Language development, with a focus on communication and vocabulary
- Social skills, like cooperation, empathy, and teamwork
- Physical development, improving fine and gross motor skills
- Creativity through arts, music, and imaginative play
- School readiness, including focus, following instructions, and adapting to routines
What Are the Lessons Kids Learn in Kindergarten?
Kindergarten focuses on building academic and social skills in preparation for primary school. Learning is often conducted in a classroom setting, where structured lessons are combined with interactive and project-based activities. Bilingual instruction is a key feature, allowing children to strengthen both English and their mother tongue.
Children engage in group projects, interactive lessons, and play, which helps them apply concepts they have learned in practical ways. The classroom environment is designed to foster collaboration, communication, and the development of independence.
Learning Outcomes for Kindergarten:
- Academic Readiness: Mastery of basic literacy and numeracy skills
- Language Skills: Enhanced vocabulary, reading, and writing abilities
- Social Skills: Improved cooperation, communication, and emotional regulation
- Independence: Confidence in completing tasks and solving problems
- Creativity: Continued exploration through hands-on projects and arts
- School Preparedness: Adaptation to structured routines and group settings
What Are the Benefits of Early Childhood Curriculum?
The early childhood curriculum used in preschools and childcare centres is vital for fostering cognitive, social, and emotional growth in young children. Common curriculum approaches include play-based learning, the Montessori method, and the High Scope curriculum, which involve active, self-directed learning.
In childcare settings, these curricula are adapted to integrate with caregiving routines like meals and naps. Children engage in hands-on, experiential learning activities, helping them explore and understand the world around them.
What Childcare Students Learn from the Curriculum:
- Basic Literacy and Numeracy: Laying the foundation for academic readiness
- Motor Skills: Enhancing fine and gross motor abilities through activities
- Social and Emotional Development: Learning to interact with peers, share, and manage emotions
- Language Development: Early exposure to language and communication skills
- Routine and Discipline: Adapting to daily routines, following schedules, and completing tasks
The benefits of early childhood education include not only academic preparation but also the development of social skills, creativity, and emotional resilience, providing children with the tools they need for a successful transition to formal schooling.

Activities in Preschool, Kindergarten and Childcare
Preschool Activities for Learning and Fun
In preschool, children participate in a variety of activities designed to be both educational and enjoyable. These activities help them develop essential skills in preparation for primary school while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and social interaction.
Numeracy Activities
Numeracy activities in preschool often involve fun games like counting blocks, sorting shapes, and recognising patterns. These activities help children understand basic math concepts such as numbers, sizes, and sequences. For example, children might engage in sorting games, where they arrange objects by size or colour, helping them develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. By working with numbers, preschoolers build a foundation in numeracy, which prepares them for more structured math learning in primary school.
Arts and Crafts
Arts and crafts activities, such as painting, drawing, and clay modelling, are an excellent way for preschoolers to express creativity while improving their fine motor skills. These activities allow children to explore colours, textures, and shapes, which stimulate their imagination and cognitive development. They also encourage children to develop hand-eye coordination, which is important for writing and other activities they will encounter in school.
At KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, numeracy, arts and literacy are key components of the daily curriculum. Children engage in hands-on math games, art projects, and interactive storytelling sessions. These activities not only foster early numeracy and artistic abilities but also help children develop confidence, social and language skills, and creative thinking — essential tools for a smooth transition to primary school.
Kindergarten Activities for Kids
Kindergarten activities are designed to build upon the skills developed in preschool, with a focus on fostering creativity, improving sensory abilities, and advancing numeracy and language skills.
Creative Arts Activities
Children participate in creative activities such as drawing, painting, and simple crafting. These activities help develop fine motor skills, creativity, and self-expression. Creative arts are also linked to cognitive development, as they encourage children to think critically and problem-solve, which are key learning outcomes for kindergarten.
Free Counting and Numeracy Games
Children engage in fun counting games, using objects like blocks, beads, or toys. These activities introduce concepts of addition, subtraction, and simple problem-solving, which are essential for numeracy development. Free counting games also enhance cognitive abilities as children learn to group, sort, and compare items.
Hearing and Sense of Touch Activities
Kindergartners take part in sensory activities like listening to sounds and identifying objects by touch. These activities sharpen their listening and sensory perception skills. For instance, children might play games where they identify different materials or sounds, which helps build their sensory processing and awareness.
Through these activities, kindergartners enhance their cognitive, sensory, and motor skills, which are critical for their future learning experiences in primary school.
What Are Some of the Early Childhood Education Activities?
Early childhood education is a period of rapid growth and development. Activities in this stage are focused on language, literacy, cognitive skills, and physical development, ensuring children develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Language and Literacy Development
Storytime and interactive reading are common activities that help children develop language and literacy skills. Through these activities, children learn new words, sentence structures, and the rhythm of language. Literacy games, like matching pictures to words or recognising letters, also enhance early reading skills.
Cognitive Development
Puzzles, memory games, and problem-solving activities challenge children’s thinking abilities. These activities help children improve their logical thinking and enhance their ability to understand cause-and-effect relationships, which are critical for cognitive development.
Active Listening
Children participate in listening activities where they follow instructions or identify sounds in their environment. These exercises help improve focus, attention span, and auditory processing, which are essential for learning in any educational setting.
Gross Motor Skills and Physical Development
Outdoor play, obstacle courses, and games like hopping, jumping, and running develop children’s gross motor skills. These activities help improve their coordination, balance, and physical strength, promoting overall physical development.
Each of these activities is designed to support a child's growth across multiple developmental areas, ensuring they are well-prepared for the next stages of learning and development.
Learning Environment in Preschool, Kindergarten and Childcare
Early Childhood Learning Environment: Creating a Stimulating Learning Environment
In early childhood education, creating a stimulating learning environment involves balancing both indoor and outdoor play. Preschools often provide a variety of play areas that encourage children to explore, learn, and interact in a safe and structured manner. Outdoor play includes activities like water play and nature exploration, allowing children to engage with their environment and develop their physical and sensory skills. These areas not only foster creativity and physical development but also provide children with a sense of freedom and joy, essential for their overall well-being.
Indoor sensory play is equally important, offering children the chance to engage with materials that stimulate their senses, such as water, sand, or textured objects. For infants, our Sensory Oasis™ provide safe spaces where they can explore their surroundings through touch, sight, and sound, which is critical for early brain development. Preschoolers benefit from classrooms, where natural elements are incorporated into indoor settings, promoting curiosity and learning.
At KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, the learning environment is designed to balance these elements. All KiddiWinkie centres feature water play areas, where children engage in interactive play that enhances both physical coordination and sensory skills. In the infant care centres, the Sensory Oasis™ provide a calming space for infants to explore their senses. At centres like Jurong Gateway, East Coast, and Mountbatten, nature-themed preschool immerse children in environments where natural elements are part of everyday learning, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
Kindergarten Learning Environment
The learning environment in kindergartens is generally more structured compared to preschools, as it focuses on preparing children for primary school. Classrooms in kindergartens are designed to provide a more formal learning experience, with an emphasis on structured lessons that foster academic skills such as literacy and numeracy. The classroom setting is organised to encourage children to focus on tasks, follow instructions, and engage in teacher-led activities. While there is still some outdoor play, it is typically limited, with more time dedicated to activities like reading, writing, and math in the classroom.
This structured approach helps kindergartners develop the discipline and concentration they will need in the more formal academic environment of primary school.
Childcare Learning Environment
In childcare, the learning environment often resembles that of preschool, but with more focus on structured routines. Classrooms are designed to offer a balance between structured learning and free play, ensuring that children have opportunities to explore, but also follow a routine that builds a sense of security and discipline. Activities are planned to stimulate cognitive, social, and physical development while providing the necessary care services like meals, naps, and hygiene practices.
Outdoor play is generally limited compared to preschool, as childcare centres prioritise indoor learning activities that build foundational skills in language, numeracy, and social interaction. This structure allows childcare students to thrive in a safe and supportive environment that is both educational and nurturing.

Preschool, Kindergarten and Childcare fees
Preschool Fees in Singapore
Preschool fees in Singapore can vary greatly depending on the type of programme, the location, and whether it’s a half-day or full-day programme. Typically, the monthly fees range from $400 to $2,500 for preschools, with full-day programmes costing more than half-day options. Premium preschools with enhanced curriculums and additional facilities may charge higher fees.
Below is a breakdown of preschool fees based on the programme duration:
Programme Type | Average Monthly Fees (SGD) | Description |
Half-Day Programme | $400 - $800 | Typically last 3 to 4 hours a day |
Full-Day Programme | $800 - $2,500 | Includes care from morning until late afternoon, often 7am - 7pm |
Many preschools also offer subsidies that reduce the cost, especially for working parents, which can make full-day programmes more affordable.
Kindergarten Fees: How Much Does Kindergarten Cost in Singapore?
Kindergarten fees in Singapore are generally lower than full-day preschool programmes, as the hours are shorter. The average monthly cost for kindergarten programmes ranges from $150 to $800, depending on whether it is an MOE Kindergarten (run by the Ministry of Education) or a Private Kindergarten.
- MOE Kindergarten: Fees are relatively affordable, ranging from $150 to $200 per month.
- Private Kindergarten: Fees can range from $400 to $800 per month, depending on the curriculum, location, and additional facilities offered.
These fees typically cover 3 to 4 hours of structured learning each day, and additional costs may apply for extracurricular activities or extended care options.
Childcare Fees in Singapore: Costs and Options
Childcare fees in Singapore can vary widely depending on the type of program (half-day or full-day), location, and the additional services provided by the centre. On average, childcare fees range from $600 to $2,000 per month for full-day programmes.
Below is a breakdown of childcare fees based on programme duration:
Programme Type | Average Monthly Fees (SGD) | Description |
Half-Day Programme | $600 - $1,200 | Usually from 7am to 1pm, with a focus on early learning and care services |
Full-Day Programme | $1,200 - $2,000 | Runs from morning until evening (typically 7am to 7pm), including meals and naps |
Like preschools, childcare centres may offer subsidies, particularly for working parents, to help make these services more accessible and affordable.
In summary, while preschool, kindergarten, and childcare all provide early childhood education, they differ in terms of age range, programme offerings, curriculum focus, activities, and cost. Preschools typically cater to children aged 18 months to 6 years and offer both half-day and full-day programmes with a focus on play-based and exploratory learning. Kindergarten is more structured, serving children aged 3 to 6 years, with shorter hours and a strong emphasis on academic readiness, particularly in literacy and numeracy. Childcare centres, on the other hand, provide comprehensive care for children as young as 2 months to 6 years, blending learning with essential care services like meals and naps, and usually operating full-day programmes.
In terms of cost, preschool fees range from $400 to $2,500 per month, while kindergarten tends to be more affordable, with fees between $150 and $800 per month. Childcare centres generally have higher fees, especially for full-day programmes, with prices ranging from $600 to $2,000 per month.
At KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, we provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 18 months to 6 years, offering a balanced curriculum that includes numeracy, arts, sensory play, and nature-based learning. With 11 locations islandwide, each centre features dedicated learning spaces, including water play areas, sensory oasis™, and nature-themed environment. Our programmes are designed to prepare children for future academic success while fostering creativity, curiosity, and confidence.
Ready to explore more? Book a tour at your nearest KiddiWinkie campus to experience firsthand how we create a unique and enriching learning journey for your child.
FAQ
How do I know if my child is ready for preschool?
Children are typically ready for preschool when they start showing signs of independence, curiosity about the world, and the ability to engage in social interactions. These signs may include managing basic self-care tasks, such as eating or toileting, being comfortable away from primary caregivers for a period, and showing an interest in playing and learning with other children. Additionally, if your child is asking questions, showing curiosity, and is eager to explore new environments, it may be a good time to consider preschool.
What type of preschool is suitable for my child?
Choosing the right preschool depends on several factors, such as your child’s personality, developmental needs, and learning style. Some preschools may emphasise structured learning, while others focus on play-based or inquiry-based approaches. It is essential to consider whether your child thrives in a more structured environment or prefers creative, hands-on learning experiences. Visiting various preschools and understanding their curriculum, teaching style, and the environment will help you determine the best fit for your child.
What is the difference between a half day and full day preschool programme?
A half-day preschool programme typically runs for about 3 to 4 hours, either in the morning or afternoon. This option is great for parents who want to ease their children into a school routine while allowing them to spend the remainder of the day at home. A full-day preschool programme generally runs from morning until the late afternoon or early evening, offering a longer duration of structured activities, play, and learning. Full-day programmes are suitable for working parents or those who prefer a more comprehensive schedule for their child’s development and care.
What type of preschool curriculum does KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse offer?
At KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, we offer a play-based, inquiry-led curriculum that encourages children to explore and learn through hands-on experiences. Our curriculum is designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, while promoting cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development. The well-rounded approach ensures that children are engaged in activities that nurture their curiosity and allow them to develop at their own pace.
What are the learning approaches that KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse adopts?
KiddiWinkie adopts a child-centric learning approach that includes play-based learning, inquiry-based exploration, and project-based learning. We believe in nurturing the natural curiosity of young children by allowing them to investigate and discover the world around them. Our educators facilitate learning through hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and creative expression, ensuring that children are actively involved in their learning journey.
What is the difference between Sparkletots and KiddiWinkie?
Sparkletots and KiddiWinkie are both well-known preschool brands, but they differ in their offerings and approach to early childhood education. KiddiWinkie is a premium preschool with a focus on a play-based, inquiry-driven curriculum that encourages exploration and creativity. We provide a holistic environment with state-of-the-art facilities, including sensory oasis™ and nature-themed school environment, to support children’s development. On the other hand, Sparkletots being an anchor operator, tends to offer more mainstream early childhood education services, with a focus on affordability and accessibility. The learning environment, curriculum design, and additional enrichment programs differ between the two brands.
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