I had the rewarding yet challenging experience of being a preschool teacher and witnessed firsthand the immense pressures faced by both educators and children in these settings. The sight of dedicated teachers overwhelmed by the colossal responsibility of minding up to nine children under the age of three is not uncommon. Coupled with the challenge of identifying and addressing the needs of children with undiagnosed special needs, these conditions translate to undue stress for both care providers and the young ones.

In Singapore, the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) is responsible for establishing guidelines to ensure quality and care in early childhood settings. However, the current teacher-to-child ratios, especially in private preschools, are unsustainable. Teachers are burning out at alarming rates, unable to give each child the attention they rightfully deserve. When teacher's workloads skyrocket, taking a toll on their mental health, it inadvertently impacts the emotional and educational well-being of the children in their care.

Statistics have shown that young children thrive in environments where they receive more individualized attention. Studies suggest that reduced teacher-to-child ratios enhance children's development and morale, leading to better learning outcomes and more nurturing social environments. Countries with better ratios, like Finland or Norway, are often highlighted for their effective approaches to early childhood education, serving as benchmark models.

We are calling on ECDA to urgently review and amend the existing teacher-to-child ratios, especially for young children below the age of three, and many with undiagnosed special needs. It is imperative to introduce standards that prioritize the well-being of our teachers and the young minds they shape.

Beyond reviewing the ratios, we urge ECDA to engage more actively with educators to understand the on-ground realities, recognizing the challenges faced, and implementing supportive measures. Only through comprehensive dialogue and strategic changes can we create a more supportive and enriching environment for our children.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for the mental well-being of our educators and taking a profound step in transforming early childhood education, making it a more effective and happy experience for both teachers and children. Your voice matters in shaping a better future for early learning in Singapore.