When selecting a preschool in Singapore, many parents look at the curriculum, facilities, and even snacks—but one critical factor often gets overlooked: the ECDA ratio. The teacher-child ratio set by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) plays a major role in how much care and attention your child receives.
In this article, we’ll explore six important things you may not know about the ECDA ratio, how it impacts your child’s preschool experience, and what to ask when visiting centres. For families planning ahead for options like childcare leave or family care leave Singapore, understanding these numbers matters more than you think.
1. What Is the ECDA Ratio and Why Does It Matter?
The ECDA ratio defines the minimum number of qualified educators required per group of children at different age levels. Here’s a simplified look:
- Infants (2–18 months): 1 teacher to 5 children
- Playgroup (18 months–2 years): 1 teacher to 8 children
- Nursery 1 (3 years old): 1 teacher to 12 children
- Nursery 2 (4 years old): 1 teacher to 15 children
- Kindergarten 1 & 2 (5–6 years old): 1 teacher to 20 children
These ratios ensure children get enough attention to stay safe, emotionally supported, and engaged in learning. A centre that respects the ECDA ratio often provides a calmer, more effective learning environment.
Want to see the official guideline? Visit the ECDA website or read how we apply these principles at Little Unicorn Preschool.
2. What the Guidelines Don’t Tell You
While ECDA standards are clear on paper, they don’t always reflect daily realities in every classroom.
Teacher Absences Can Disrupt Ratios
Teachers take leave, fall sick, or attend training—leaving the school to scramble for coverage. Some centres may combine classes or reduce planned activities to stay afloat.
Transition Times Are Often Understaffed
Drop-offs, lunch breaks, and naptime aren’t counted in official ratios, but they’re still critical moments when children need attention. Always ask how the school handles staffing during these less-structured periods.
Tip: Ask, “What happens when a teacher is away?” A good centre will have a solid answer—especially if your child’s routine is affected by things like childcare leave.
3. Does a Lower Ratio Always Mean Better Quality?
Many premium schools offer smaller class sizes and ratios well below ECDA’s minimums—but is it always better?
Benefits of Lower Ratios:
- More individualised learning
- Quicker response to children’s needs
- Better social-emotional bonding
However, numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. A well-trained and caring teacher with a 1:15 ratio might be more effective than a disengaged teacher with 1:8. It’s about the environment and the people.
Families who aim for smooth MOE P1 registration may prioritise consistent learning support over simply smaller classes.
4. How Are ECDA Ratios Monitored?
Preschools are audited by ECDA through routine inspections and must submit records showing compliance. If a school fails to maintain the correct ECDA ratio, it could:
- Receive warnings or shorter licence renewals
- Be restricted from enrolling new students
- In serious cases, face licence suspension
That said, ECDA does not require schools to inform parents when ratios are temporarily off. This is why you should be proactive in asking.
5. What Do Other Parents Think About ECDA Ratios?
Parental awareness of the ECDA ratio is growing. Parents are starting to notice how large class sizes can impact behaviour, attention spans, and emotional regulation in their children.
Questions to Ask During a Tour
- “How many children per class?”
- “Is that consistent across all hours of the day?”
- “How do you manage staff shortages?”
Also, watch how teachers interact during your visit. Are they overwhelmed or fully engaged? If you’re aiming for a supportive culture or applying through Phase 2B Primary School, this can be a deciding factor.
6. Is a Lower Ratio Worth the Extra Cost?
Smaller ratios often mean more staff and space—which raises costs. Schools that offer very low ECDA ratios typically charge higher fees.
When It’s Worth It:
- If your child needs extra attention or is shy
- If you’re looking for close parent-teacher communication
- If you value personalised learning and small-group engagement
If budget is a concern, look for centres that meet ECDA standards but also have stable teacher retention and warm classroom cultures. These factors often matter just as much—especially for families managing family care leave Singapore.
Conclusion: Know the Numbers, Ask the Right Questions
Understanding the ECDA ratio is one of the best tools a parent can have when choosing a preschool. It doesn’t just affect safety—it shapes how supported, seen, and heard your child feels every day.
Be sure to:
- Ask about ratios for different age groups
- Check how schools manage when staff are away
- Observe classroom dynamics, not just class sizes
If you’re looking for a preschool that blends quality, care, and child-focused attention, Little Unicorn Preschool is here to support your family’s journey. Reach out here to schedule a tour or learn more.
