In Singapore’s bilingual society, speaking English is considered the norm in most families and schools today. While many parents recognise the importance of creating a conducive environment to encourage bilingualism, they may be at a loss on how to get started.
As a result, many young children struggle to grasp the basics of Mandarin and may become discouraged early on in their learning journey. If you’re looking for an effective programme to cultivate your child’s interest in Mandarin and to nurture them in this area, here are our top choices of Chinese preschools and kindergartens in Singapore!
1. The Chinese Kindergarten
Founded in 1921, The Chinese Kindergarten Preschool (TCKP) blends tradition with innovation to offer a holistic bilingual education rooted in Chinese language and culture. Guided by the values of keen learning, joyful giving, and confident teamwork (好学, 乐施, 乐群), TCKP nurtures children from Playgroup to K2 in a loving and respectful environment.
The school’s unique pedagogy emphasizes PECs—Play, Exploration, and Creativity with a sense of wonder – encouraging curiosity and joyful learning. With a balance of academic and non-academic development, children engage in learning that extends beyond classrooms.
Furthermore, TCKP’s Chinese Programme immerses children in a rich Mandarin-speaking environment through stories, songs, rhymes, and hands-on cultural activities. Designed to spark interest and appreciation for the language, the programme incorporates activities that help to build confidence in spoken Mandarin.
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2. Mulberry Learning Chinese Preschool @ Fusionopolis
Established in 2006, Mulberry Learning is an award-winning Reggio-inspired preschool with 23 centres in Singapore. Its Chinese Preschool at Fusionopolis offers an immersive experience, with Mandarin making up about 80% of early learning.
Children are exposed to over 4,200 Chinese words, more than 30 Chinese poems, and over 80 idioms through play-based and teacher-led activities, including calligraphy, festivals, and values from Di Zi Gui.
Integrated with Mulberry’s signature curriculum, children benefit from holistic programmes like Project Inquiry™, Habits of Mind™, and Literacy Fun™, nurturing confident, future-ready learners.
📍 1 Fusionopolis Walk, #01-14/15/16, North Tower, Solaris, Singapore 138628
☎️ 6653 8082
📧 enquiry@mulberrylearning.com
🌐 mulberrylearning.com
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3. Changemakers Explorer
Changemakers Explorer: Building Confidence through Symphonic Learning™
From the creators of Little Skool-House, Changemakers Explorer offers a bilingual education centered around its signature Symphonic Learning™ approach. These child-led inquiry-based projects encourage them to explore real-world questions, using the language to research, collaborate, and present findings. By blending a Bilingual Drama Pedagogy with AI-integrated tools, children develop natural Chinese fluency and confidence.
The curriculum is supported by a unique Zone-in-Zone layout designed for self-directed discovery. With specialist-led programs and immersion opportunities to cultural hubs like China, they nurture globally-minded children who think critically and express themselves creatively in both English and Chinese.
📍 6 locations islandwide
📧 info.explorer@changemakers.edu.sg
🌐 changemakers.edu.sg/explorer
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4. Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan Preschool
Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan Preschool is a bilingual pre-school that offers a strong Chinese Language and Culture programme. Its holistic education incorporates practical life skills and strong character development for children aged three to six years old.
Beyond adopting the curriculum framework set by the Ministry of Education, this award-winning preschool lets your child experience Chinese as a living language through Applied Life Skills and Holistic Character Development using Chinese materials, while nurturing eco-habits and respect for Nature through Living Garden projects.
For more information, visit Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan Preschool.
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5. KinderBuds Preschool: Chinese Immersion Preschool
At KinderBuds, Chinese is not confined to a single lesson in the timetable. Instead, it is thoughtfully woven into every aspect of the children’s daily experiences – from play and storytelling to project work, routines, and everyday interactions.
Through hands-on cultural activities such as tie-dyeing, ink painting, and paper cutting, language learning comes alive. As a result, children grow into confident Chinese speakers who are well-prepared for the transition to Primary 1.
For more information, visit Kinderbuds Preschool.
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Looking for a holistic bilingual Chinese-English preschool that builds strong Mandarin skills and cultural understanding?
At ELFA, children are immersed in Chinese language and culture from an early age, with a focus on oral communication and reading. Our integrated thematic curriculum, developed with advisors from China and Singapore, aligns with MOE guidelines.
By K2, students take the HSK-YCT assessment to benchmark readiness for Primary 1 Chinese, with strong past results.
ELFA also offers a Chinese-inspired art programme to nurture creativity and focus, alongside a bilingual maths programme that deepens understanding and sharpens thinking skills.
📍 2 locations islandwide – Pandan Valley & Serangoon
☎️ 6881 8818
📧 enquiry@elfa.edu.sg
🌐 elfapreschools.com
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Note: All details are correct as of the time of publishing. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information, no guarantee is given nor responsibility is taken for errors or omissions in the compilation. Readers are advised to check with the respective centres for the most updated details.
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