What do parents really think of early childhood (EC) educators and the work they do? What matters most to parents as they try to stay informed about their children’s learning and development and become better partners to preschool teachers?
WE APPRECIATE YOU
“EC educators lay the foundation for children’s academic success. They impart social and emotional skills, reinforce important values and behaviours, and shape overall character and development. I truly appreciate the educators’ attentiveness, patience with our children, and valuable insights to help us become better parents.”
– Mr Christopher Sun, father of a girl, aged 5
Parents are appreciative of the time, effort and energy EC educators put into nurturing their children.
WE WANT TO BE INVOLVED
“I believe cultivating good habits at home is essential for a smooth transition to preschool. By instilling respect, responsibility and discipline early on, this makes it easier for educators to manage the classroom and helps my child succeed. I understand collaboration between home and preschool is key to a child’s development, and I’m committed to being an active partner in the process.”
– Ms Cheong Yee Chin, mother of a girl, aged 5
GET TO KNOW US
“I hope educators take the time to know parents and feel comfortable communicating with us. Building mutual trust allows us to work together towards common goals and expectations. When children see their parents and educators getting along, they feel safe and at ease in preschool, creating a positive learning environment. If I happen to post photos of family weekend activities on the preschool app, my son’s teacher will ask him to share with the class. This helps with his public speaking skills.”
– Mr Syed Muhamad Hakim, father of a boy, aged 3
The stronger the relationship between educator and parent, the more comfortable the child feels around their teacher.
WE LOVE HEARING ABOUT OUR CHILD
“Whenever educators update me on my children’s progress, it reassures me that they are actively observing and supporting their growth. Knowing educators celebrate even small successes gives me confidence and pride in my children’s journeys. Shortly after my younger child started attending playgroup, her teacher called to say that she was settling in well — eating, napping and having fun outdoors. Updates like this spark meaningful conversations between me and my child at home.”
– Ms Serene Lee, mother of two, aged 4 and 21 months
WE NEED SUPPORT TOO
“Next to parents, preschool educators are often the closest to children and spend significant time with them. I feel educators are well-placed to identify a child’s strengths and emerging talents, advise us on areas that need attention, and suggest activities to enhance their learning and development. For example, when my child’s educators give progress updates every month and share their observations with me, it helps me better understand my child’s developmental milestones and how to support his needs.”
– Mdm Liu, mother of a boy, aged 18 months
Parents value feedback from educators on how their children are coping in preschool, and guidance to extend learning at home.
