SINGAPORE: Get ready, parents!

The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) is set to launch a groundbreaking pilot program allowing childminders to provide infant care at their homes starting December 1. This innovative initiative aims to create a safe and affordable option for families with infants aged between two months and 18 months who are Singapore Citizens.

Over the next three years, the pilot will be facilitated by three dedicated operators: EduNanny by Butler, Kidibliss, and NannyPro Care. These organizations will employ qualified childminders to care for the little ones, ensuring high-quality care in a nurturing environment. Interested parents should contact these approved operators to enroll in this much-anticipated program.

This pilot is designed not only to operate from homes but will also extend to community spaces like community centers in the future, giving parents more convenient options. However, it's important to note that childminders will only care for up to three infants at a time, maximizing the number of children who can benefit from these services while ensuring quality care.

In its inaugural year, the pilot plans to accommodate approximately 500 children, with projections to increase to 700 in subsequent years. This significant initiative is part of the Singapore government's ongoing efforts to enhance support for parents during the crucial early stages of their child's development.

Affordable Rates That Beat Private Childminding Services!

The ECDA has confirmed that this pilot will provide an affordable childminding solution. Services will be subsidized by the government, significantly reducing costs for parents. Parents can choose between five-hour and 10-hour blocks of care, with prices set at S$16.50 (about US$12.30) and S$33, respectively, excluding GST. Full-time use of the program, which covers five days a week, will cost S$719.40 per month, inclusive of GST—substantially lower than the S$1,200 to S$2,800 often charged for private home-based nannies.

To help ease financial burdens further, parents can utilize funds from their Child Development Account, making it easier to access essential childminding services.

Safety First: Stringent Standards for Childminders

The safety and well-being of infants are paramount in this pilot program. ECDA has implemented rigorous service requirements to ensure that all appointed operators and their childminders meet industry standards. This includes background checks, mandatory training, and health certifications for childminders, assuring parents that their children are in safe hands.

Operators who fail to comply with the stipulated standards will face penalties and may be removed from the pilot, ensuring accountability at all levels of care.

A Community-Focused Future for Childminding Services

In an exciting twist, the pilot will also trial childminding services at community spaces, aiming to increase accessibility for parents. The Tampines East Community Center and Nee Soon East Community Center are set to host these services, with registration opportunities expected in the first half of 2025.

As demand for infant care services continues to rise, ECDA is committed to working closely with operators to identify additional community locations where these services can be offered, ensuring that all parents have convenient access to high-quality childminding options.

Don't miss this opportunity as Singapore makes strides toward enhancing family support and offering flexible, affordable childminding solutions that parents can trust!