The right centre for childcare in Singapore can significantly impact your children’s early development and possibly their future. Beyond location and fees, it’s important to evaluate the learning environment, teaching approach, and daily care routines. If you’re considering childcare in Yishun or any other part of Singapore, scheduling a tour allows you to observe firsthand and ask the right questions. This guide outlines essential areas to cover during your visit to ensure the centre aligns with your child’s developmental needs and your expectations as a parent.
What Is the Teacher-to-Child Ratio and Staff Qualification?
A key indicator of quality childcare in Singapore is the teacher-to-child ratio. Smaller groups allow more individual attention, better supervision, and stronger relationships between caregivers and children. Ask about the number of children per class and how many teachers or assistants are assigned to each group.
Equally important is staff training and certification. Ask about the credentials of the teachers and caregivers in the institution. Look for centres where educators hold relevant early childhood diplomas or certifications approved by ECDA. A centre that invests in ongoing staff training is more likely to provide consistent, developmentally appropriate care and education.
What Does the Daily Routine Look Like?
Understanding the daily structure gives insight into how your child will spend their time. Ask for an explanation of the daily agenda, including free play, structured lessons, meal times, naps, and outdoor play. A well-balanced routine supports both learning and social development.
When reviewing childcare in Yishun, check whether the schedule allows for physical activity, creative expression, and language development. Observe whether the centre encourages hands-on exploration, social interaction, and age-appropriate academic readiness. The schedule should reflect a mix of guided learning and opportunities for children to develop independence and problem-solving skills.
How Does the Centre Handle Health, Hygiene, and Safety?
Cleanliness and safety protocols are crucial when evaluating any facility offering childcare in Singapore. Ask about the centre’s policies on handwashing, toy and surface sanitation, and how they manage illnesses. Enquire how staff handle accidents, injuries, or medical emergencies and whether first aid training is mandatory.
For childcare in Yishun, check access control and child pick-up procedures to ensure only authorised adults are allowed. Review safety features such as secure entry points, childproofing measures, and supervision during outdoor activities. Understanding these protocols will give you confidence in your child’s well-being during the day.
What Is the Curriculum and Teaching Philosophy?
Curriculum quality varies across preschools, so it’s important to ask what framework the centre follows. Many childcare providers in Singapore adopt play-based, inquiry-led, or thematic approaches. Ask how teachers plan lessons, track progress, and adapt learning for different developmental stages.
When reviewing childcare in Yishun, ask how teachers assess children and how they share feedback with parents. Discover whether lessons benefit the cognitive, language, motor, and emotional growth of the child. A good centre will also provide activities that nurture curiosity and promote creativity while preparing children for a smooth transition into kindergarten.
How Are Parents Involved and Informed?
Effective communication between caregivers and parents is key to successful childcare in Singapore. Ask how the centre keeps parents informed—through daily reports, mobile apps, or regular updates on routines and milestones. Find out how often parent-teacher meetings are held and whether opportunities exist for parents to participate in events or volunteer.
In centres offering childcare in Yishun, enquire about how concerns or feedback are handled. A collaborative approach between families and educators strengthens the child’s learning experience and ensures issues are addressed promptly and constructively.
Conclusion
Visiting and asking the right questions helps you evaluate whether a centre offering childcare in Singapore aligns with your expectations and your child’s developmental needs. From safety standards and teacher qualifications to curriculum design and parent communication, each factor contributes to a quality experience. If you’re exploring options for childcare in Yishun, take time to observe and engage during the tour. The right environment should offer care, meaningful learning and emotional support.
Contact Apple Tree Playhouse today to schedule a tour and discover how our childcare in Yishun supports your child’s learning and growth.
