education (children & youth)

​In 2020, 330, or 1 in 5 childcare centres will be increasing their full-day childcare fees for Singapore Citizen children. The other 1,200 childcare centres will not be adjusting their fees. 

​The early years are some of the most important in a person's life. Those who have good quality early childhood experiences acquire physical, cognitive and social skills that give them a solid foundation for life. Many educators have told me that the emotional and social skills that children learn in their first few years - making friends, handling conflict, learning how to communicate, and explore their surroundings - distinguish them when they grow older. On the other hand, those who do not pick up these skills can be set back, and are less able to seize the same opportunities.

​At the Early Childhood Conference 2019, the Minister for Social and Family Development Mr Desmond Lee announced new initiatives, in collaboration with partners, to support outdoor learning by children in preschools, and to enhance support for children and families under KidSTART.

​In recognition of their professional excellence and innovation, 22 pre-school educators and centres will receive the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Development from Mr Desmond Lee, Minister for Social and Family Development, at ECDA's annual Early Childhood Conference on 13 September 2019.

​Remarks by Minister at the Joint Ministerial Media Conferene on Marriage and Parenthood

Making quality preschools more affordable and accessible

​Minister answers question by Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar, MP for Ang Mo Kio GRC on grants for fees for faith-based preschools run by non-profit organisations such as those by churches, mosques and voluntary welfare organisations. 

​Minister answers questions by Er Dr Lee Bee Wah on the capacity and waitlists at Infant Care Centres in Yishun