Choosing the right preschool curriculum is one of the most important decisions parents make when preparing their child for early education. Singapore offers various curriculum approaches, each catering to different learning styles and developmental goals. Among the most well-known are the Montessori method, Reggio Emilia approach, and the Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) Framework.
Each of these teaching styles has unique strengths, with some focusing on child-led learning, others on creativity and exploration, and others on structured preparation for primary school. Understanding these differences helps parents determine which environment will best support their child’s development. While selecting a curriculum is essential, it is also important to consider practical factors like school fees. Many parents look into government-subsidized preschools, private institutions, and international programs to find a balance between quality education and affordability.
The Montessori Approach
The Montessori method, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is a child-centered educational approach that encourages independence, hands-on learning, and self-discipline. The core idea is that children learn best when they are free to explore and engage in self-directed activities at their own pace.
Montessori classrooms provide structured environments filled with specialized learning materials, allowing children to develop fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and self-confidence. Teachers act as guides rather than direct instructors, fostering an atmosphere of curiosity and self-motivation.
Key Features of Montessori Education
- Self-Paced Learning – Children choose their own activities based on their interests.
- Prepared Environment – Classrooms are designed to encourage independence and exploration.
- Hands-On Activities – Learning happens through touch, movement, and direct experience.
- Multi-Age Classrooms – Older children mentor younger peers, reinforcing leadership and collaboration.
Benefits of the Montessori Approach
- Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Develops independence and responsibility from an early age.
- Reduces reliance on rote memorization, promoting deeper understanding.
Parents who prefer a structured but child-led environment may find Montessori preschools ideal. Many institutions in Singapore, such as Brighton Montessori and EtonHouse Montessori, offer this approach.
The Reggio Emilia Approach
The Reggio Emilia approach originated in post-war Italy and is based on the belief that children are naturally capable learners who construct knowledge through exploration and social interaction.
This method emphasizes project-based learning, where children investigate real-world topics that interest them. Art, music, and dramatic play are key components, helping children express their thoughts and emotions creatively.
Key Features of Reggio Emilia Education
- Project-Based Learning – Encourages long-term investigations into meaningful topics.
- Environment as the Third Teacher – Classrooms are designed to spark curiosity and interaction.
- Collaboration and Communication – Learning is driven by discussions, storytelling, and artistic expression.
- Documentation of Learning – Teachers record children’s work through photos, journals, and portfolios.
Benefits of the Reggio Emilia Approach
- Fosters creativity, communication, and social skills.
- Encourages children to become independent thinkers.
- Involves parents as active participants in learning.
Children who thrive in creative and interactive settings will enjoy Reggio Emilia-inspired preschools like Odyssey The Global Preschool and Mulberry Learning. For families who are also exploring bilingual or international programs, understanding the different types of preschools in Singapore can provide deeper insight into available options.
The Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) Framework
The Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) Framework is a national curriculum developed by Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) to ensure preschoolers gain essential skills before entering Primary 1. Unlike Montessori and Reggio Emilia, which focus on open-ended exploration, NEL provides a structured yet engaging learning environment to prepare children for Singapore’s formal education system.
Key Learning Areas in NEL
- Language and Literacy – Develops strong reading, writing, and communication skills.
- Numeracy – Introduces basic math concepts through fun, interactive activities.
- Social and Emotional Development – Teaches self-awareness, resilience, and cooperation.
- Aesthetics and Creative Expression – Encourages music, movement, and visual arts.
- Discovery of the World – Explores science, nature, and environmental awareness.
- Motor Skills Development – Improves physical coordination through structured activities.
How NEL Prepares Children for Primary School
MOE Kindergartens and many government-subsidized preschools implement the NEL framework, making it one of the most accessible and widely used curriculums in Singapore. Parents considering a cost-effective preschool option should explore preschool fees in Singapore to compare tuition rates and subsidy eligibility.
Choosing the Right Preschool Curriculum
Comparison of Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and NEL
Each curriculum has unique strengths, and parents should choose based on their child’s personality, learning preferences, and long-term goals.
- Montessori – Best for independent learners who enjoy hands-on activities and self-directed discovery.
- Reggio Emilia – Ideal for children who thrive in creative, social, and project-based environments.
- NEL Framework – Most suitable for families prioritizing structured learning and school readiness.
Beyond these three approaches, some preschools in Singapore integrate elements from multiple curriculums, blending structured academics with play-based learning. Schools that adopt bilingual programs, international syllabi, or faith-based values may also incorporate Montessori or Reggio Emilia principles while aligning with MOE guidelines. Parents should explore whether hybrid models might offer the best of both worlds—balancing creativity, structured learning, and language immersion.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Curriculum
Before selecting a preschool, parents should evaluate:
- Child’s Learning Style – Does the child prefer structured lessons with clear guidance or open-ended play that encourages self-exploration and creativity?
- Preschool Philosophy – How does the school balance academic readiness, hands-on learning, and holistic development to match the child’s needs?
- Parental Involvement – Reggio Emilia, for instance, encourages active parent participation, while Montessori fosters independence with minimal parental intervention.
- Tuition Fees – Montessori and Reggio Emilia schools are generally more expensive than NEL-based preschools due to specialized teaching materials and methodologies.
- School Environment – Are facilities designed to foster creativity, independence, or structured learning through interactive classrooms, nature-based areas, or dedicated activity spaces?
- Teacher-Student Ratio – Smaller class sizes often provide more personalized attention, improving engagement and individualized learning experiences for young children.
Conclusion
Selecting the right preschool curriculum plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s early learning experience and overall development. Montessori encourages independence and hands-on exploration, Reggio Emilia nurtures creativity and collaboration, while the NEL Framework provides a structured foundation aligned with Singapore’s education system. Parents should assess their child’s learning style, school environment, and long-term educational goals before making a decision.
Additionally, factors such as class size, teacher approach, and parental involvement can influence the effectiveness of each curriculum. By choosing the right preschool, parents can set the stage for a fulfilling and enriching educational journey for their child.
