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Parents today are highly aware that early education is not only about academics but also about shaping values, curiosity, and independence. Both kindergarten and Reggio Emilia preschools in Singapore provide structured environments, but their approach to parental involvement differs significantly. Understanding these differences can help parents make informed decisions on which learning pathway is best suited to their child’s developmental needs.
Parental Involvement in Kindergarten
A typical kindergartenemphasises formal preparation for primary school. The Ministry of Education’s framework ensures children are introduced to literacy, numeracy, and social interaction within a structured timetable. Parental involvement, while encouraged, is usually confined to communication channels such as parent-teacher conferences, progress updates, and occasional volunteer activities.
Parents, in most cases, are considered partners but not direct contributors to the curriculum design. Their primary role is to reinforce learning at home through reading practice, homework assistance, and encouraging discipline. While schools may organise events like open houses or cultural celebrations where parents can participate, the involvement remains largely supportive rather than collaborative.
This system appeals to parents who prioritise readiness for primary school and prefer a more teacher-led model of education. It provides a clear line between school responsibilities and parental support, ensuring consistency in preparing children for the academic demands ahead.
Parental Involvement in Reggio Emilia Preschool
In contrast, a Reggio Emilia preschoolplaces parental involvement at the heart of its philosophy. Rooted in the idea that education is a shared responsibility, parents are seen as active partners in the child’s learning journey. Instead of merely reinforcing lessons at home, parents are invited to participate in curriculum discussions, share their expertise, and engage in collaborative projects with teachers and children.
Many Reggio Emilia settings maintain open classrooms where parents can contribute materials, share stories, or participate in thematic explorations. Documentation of children’s work, such as project boards and portfolios, is often shared not only with teachers but also with families to spark further conversations at home. This level of transparency fosters strong connections between the school, child, and parents, creating an integrated community of learning.
The approach aligns with parents who want to be deeply engaged in shaping their child’s early education. It allows families to see themselves as co-educators and ensures that children grow up with consistent values reinforced both at school and at home.
Key Differences in Approach
The main difference lies in the depth of involvement. Parental engagement in a kindergarten in Singapore is structured, periodic, and often limited to guidance outside of school hours. Meanwhile, in a Reggio Emilia preschool, parental engagement is continuous, participatory, and woven into the curriculum itself.
This divergence stems from their educational philosophies. Kindergarten models are designed for efficiency and preparation, with parents in a supportive role. Reggio Emilia models view the child as a citizen with rights and potential, requiring parents to be co-constructors of knowledge alongside teachers.
Implications for Parents Choosing Between the Two
The decision, for parents weighing their options, often depends on lifestyle, expectations, and desired outcomes. Those who prefer a clear structure and want their child to transition smoothly into the academic rigours of primary school may find the kindergarten model more suitable. Meanwhile, families who value creative exploration, collaboration, and direct participation may lean towards a Reggio Emilia preschool.
It is also worth noting that higher parental involvement in Reggio Emilia settings demands more time and commitment. Parents who have demanding work schedules may find it challenging to fully participate. Conversely, parents who enjoy active collaboration with educators may find the experience rewarding and more aligned with their values.
Conclusion
Parental involvement plays a critical role in shaping a child’s early learning experience. While a kindergarten positions parents as supportive partners, a Reggio Emilia preschool in Singapore integrates them as co-educators. Both approaches are valid, but the choice depends on the family’s capacity and priorities. Parents must assess not only what suits their child but also how much involvement they are willing and able to commit to.
Visit Apple Tree Playhouse for a preschool that values your role as a parent in your child’s learning journey.
