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The early years are critical to a child’s development. Cognitive development starts from infancy, and all the input children receive in those early years can contribute greatly to their performance later on in life.
In the early years, children go through a series of social, communication, cognitive and physical development milestones. For instance, from their first word they progress to holding full-fledged conversations. At this age, they soak up so much from around them (just like a sponge), so providing them with a stimulating environment full of learning opportunities is key.
There are so many activities that could be beneficial for your child at this age but, especially for working parents, it may be difficult to expose your child to them at home. Coupled with the need for most families to have two working parents, sending your child to a preschool that can offer developmental opportunities (while taking care of your child’s basic needs) is a win-win situation.
So, how do you choose a suitable preschool for your child?
How to choose a suitable preschool for your child?
There are many factors to consider when picking a preschool for your child.
As mundane as it sounds, distance is an important factor, as you’ll be spending precious time every day ferrying your child to and from the preschool. The hours of the programmes should also mesh with your own schedule, so you are able to comfortably drop off and pick up your child. Little Footprints Preschool has multiple centres all over Singapore, ensuring that parents can find a school near their home.
The fees should also be affordable in order for your child’s education to be sustainable for the whole family.
Beyond practical considerations, you should examine the curriculum and programmes offered by the preschool so you know what your child will be learning and the activities he or she will be engaging in while at school.
For instance, Little Footprints Preschool runs numerous core programmes covering subjects like the natural environment, language and literacy, numeracy, social and emotional development, physical development and creative expression. In addition, they conduct specialised programmes that let children go further with reading, public speaking and fine motor skills.
Another thing to be concerned about is the teaching track record of the staff at the school. After all, even the best programme in the world cannot be taught to its maximum potential without good teachers.
Little Footprints’ teachers are trained to use the school’s I.D.E.A. pedagogical approach, a unique integrated approach that takes children through a theme-based learning experience and helps them develop progressively through experiential methods and active learning.
Don’t forget to look at curriculum
As mentioned earlier, curriculum is one important factor that should influence your choice of preschool. A rich variety of activities offered by schools like Little Footprints Preschool can ensure that your child reaches his or her development potential.
Little Footprints Preschool offers a comprehensive English and Chinese curriculum featuring integrated learning activities in a literacy-rich environment, enabling your child to develop bilingual communication skills.
Apart from their core programme, the school also offers all students specialised programmes as part of the curriculum, such as the following:
- Librarian’s Code — Nurtures future readers, writers and storytellers by cultivating a passion for quality children’s literature
- Tick Tock, It’s Time to Talk — Show and tell activities conducted according to a given topic or theme, designed to nurture children’s oral and public speaking skills
- Vitamin C — Social and emotional module that aims to develop civic-minded and resilient individuals
- Fun Fitness — Develops children’s motor and perceptual skills through various activities
In addition, Little Footprints Preschool also offers character development programmes at all levels for a holistic learning experience.
One of the school’s key focuses is to nurture children to become confident communicators and equip them with problem solving skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Giving your child the chance to immerse themselves in a well-rounded programme is one of the best things you can do for their development. Studies have shown that high quality early childhood education can result in better performance in reading and math later on, and even boost children’s chances of staying in school and attending university.
In addition to a rich curriculum, some Little Footprints Preschool centres also offer one optional enrichment programme out of three available options, including speech and drama and gym programmes.
Enrol now to enjoy a special promotion
Until 30 September 2022, Little Footprints Preschool is having a promotion. All new enrollments can enjoy up to $2,600* savings, as well as one complimentary set of uniform and PE attire.
*Terms and conditions apply.
Here’s what the fees for Singapore citizens are like before and after the promotional discount, for Partner Operator (POP) and Non-Partner Operator (Non-POP) centres, before any government subsidies:
| Centre type | Level | Programme | School Fees |
| POP | Infant care | Half day | $950 |
| Full day | $1,330 | ||
| Childcare | Half day | $570 | |
| Full day | $760 | ||
| Non-POP | Infant care | Half day | $1,450 |
| Full day | $1,575 – $1,700 | ||
| Childcare | Half day | $834 – $900 | |
| Full day | $995 – $1200 |
Prices before GST, Source: Little Footprints Preschool website
For Permanent Residents and foreigners, here are the applicable fees:
| Centre type | Level | Programme | School Fees |
| POP | Infant care | Half day | $1,450 |
| Full day | $1,700 | ||
| Childcare | Half day | $900 | |
| Full day | $1,200 | ||
| Non-POP | Infant care | Half day | $1,450 |
| Full day | $1,575 – $1,700 | ||
| Childcare | Half day | $834 – $900 | |
| Full day | $995 – $1200 |
Prices before GST, Source: Little Footprints Preschool website
By offering your child a quality preschool education, you are giving him or her an advantage that will last a lifetime.
Learn more about Little Footprints Preschool and register for 2023 enrolment today!