New initiative offers flexible and affordable care for working parents.
Three childminding operators—EduNanny by Butler, Kidibliss, and NannyPro Care—have been selected for a pilot program starting December 1, aimed at providing Singaporean parents with an alternative to traditional infant care. The scheme caters to babies aged 2 to 18 months, offering services either at childminders’ homes or designated community spaces.
Parents can opt for flexible hours, choosing care blocks of five or ten hours between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays. Subsidized rates for these services are set at $16.50 for five hours and $33 for ten hours. Full-time care (10-hour blocks, five days a week) will cost $719.40 monthly, inclusive of GST. Additional hours or services outside these times can be arranged with operators.
Enhanced Safety and Quality Standards
Childminders in the pilot must undergo extensive training, including infant first aid, food safety, and caregiving essentials. Homes and community spaces will be rigorously assessed for safety and cleanliness, with necessary facilities like baby cots and play areas provided. Medical and background checks, including criminal history reviews, ensure the safety of the infants.
The program also explores using community spaces, with Tampines East and Nee Soon East community centers identified as initial locations. Parents can register for childminding at these centers starting in the first half of 2025.
Operators Scaling Up
EduNanny plans to have over 120 full-time childminders by 2025, caring for more than 300 infants. Currently, it has 10 trained childminders ready for the pilot launch. Similarly, Kidibliss aims to provide around 100 childminders by 2025.
Childminder Insights
Jessica Ng, 40, a Kidibliss childminder and mother of two, began her childminding journey during the Covid-19 pandemic. Previously in the beauty industry, she transitioned to childminding to better balance work and family needs.
“It’s fulfilling to see milestones like a baby’s first steps or words,” said Ms. Ng. “I’ve stayed in touch with the families I worked with because the bonds formed are so special.”
This pilot program, part of the Early Childhood Development Agency’s (ECDA) efforts, is a three-year initiative designed to provide parents with affordable, flexible, and safe caregiving options, reinforcing the government’s commitment to early childhood support.
