Searching for the perfect preschool can feel like a big decision—and it is! Thankfully, tools like the preschool search portal on LifeSG make the process easier by showing nearby centres, vacancy status, and licensing info. But while the basics are covered, there are still gaps that every parent should be aware of.
In this article, we’ll walk you through 5 important things these portals often leave out. So if you’re relying solely on a preschool search portal to find the right fit, here’s what you might be missing.
1. No Quality Ratings or Parental Reviews
Most preschool search portals show you operational details—location, license status, availability—but don’t include reviews or quality ratings. That means you don’t get real feedback from other parents or a sense of what daily life at the preschool is like.
Why it matters: Knowing whether a school is warm, communicative, and engaging makes a big difference.
Tip: Check Google reviews, parenting forums, or Facebook groups for first-hand experiences.
2. No Details on Fees or Subsidies
You’d think a preschool search portal would help you estimate monthly costs—but most don’t. They rarely show full fee structures or how much you’d actually pay after ECDA subsidies are applied.
Why it matters: Preschool can be a significant financial decision, and hidden costs might catch you off guard.
To learn how fee structure and support schemes affect you, explore articles like this one on childcare leave entitlement, which often tie into subsidy eligibility.
Tip: Use the ECDA subsidy calculator and don’t hesitate to contact schools directly for fee breakdowns.
3. Unclear User Experience on the Portal Itself
Even though a preschool search portal sounds convenient, some parents find the interface confusing or outdated. Whether it’s hard-to-use filters or limited mobile access, you might end up frustrated if the experience isn’t smooth.
Why it matters: As a busy parent, your time is precious. A poor UX wastes it.
Tip: Use both desktop and mobile to compare ease of use. Some find the LifeSG app more reliable than the browser version.
4. No Info About School Visits or Virtual Tours
Want to tour the school before enrolling? Don’t count on the preschool search portal to help. Most listings don’t indicate whether the school offers in-person tours, virtual walk-throughs, or open house schedules.
Why it matters: Seeing the environment firsthand helps you evaluate safety, cleanliness, and vibe.
For example, during open houses or events like racial harmony day activities, schools often show their inclusive approach and learning culture—something you’d rarely find in a portal listing.
Tip: Visit each preschool’s official website or social pages for updated tour info. Many centres, including Little Unicorn Preschool, allow easy booking through WhatsApp or contact forms.
5. Can’t Filter by Specialised Curriculum or Enrichment
Not all preschools are the same. Some follow Montessori principles, others are bilingual or include enrichment programmes like speech therapy, arts, or STEM.
Unfortunately, preschool search portals rarely allow you to filter by curriculum type or special features.
Why it matters: Your child might thrive in a specific learning style or benefit from unique programmes.
To determine programme strength, it helps to understand frameworks like the ECDA ratio or policies on family care leave—these give you clues on student support and parental involvement expectations.
Tip: Use complementary platforms like Skoolopedia or KiasuParents to explore niche offerings—or reach out to schools directly.
FAQ – Preschool Search Portal
Q1: What is a preschool search portal?
A preschool search portal is an online tool that helps parents locate childcare centres by location, availability, and licensing status. In Singapore, LifeSG hosts the official version supported by ECDA.
Q2: Can I view school fees through the portal?
Not usually. Most portals do not display full fee information. It’s best to ask the school directly.
Q3: Is LifeSG the only preschool search portal?
It’s the most official and ECDA-integrated, but you can also use platforms like Skoolopedia or KiasuParents for more features like reviews and programme filters.
Q4: How many preschools can I bookmark on LifeSG?
You can save up to 10 preschools and track their availability status in real-time.
Q5: Can I apply directly through the preschool search portal?
Some centres offer interest forms via LifeSG, but most will require you to contact them directly for enrolment steps.
Final Thoughts
A preschool search portal is a helpful starting point—but not your only resource. To make a confident decision, you’ll need to do more than just click and shortlist.
Look for reviews, explore fees and subsidies, ask about curriculum and enrichment options, and always schedule a visit if you can. Your child’s preschool experience will set the tone for years of learning to come—make it count.
Curious about the right preschool for your child’s needs?
Visit Little Unicorn Preschool and discover a nurturing, inquiry-based environment.
Contact us today to book a visit or get your questions answered.
