While it should be taken seriously, the recent incidents of child mismanagement are not reflective of the wider preschool sector! Many preschool educators have expressed shock and dismay, and it has taken a toll on their morale. Remember, these are educators who, at the height of the pandemic, showed up every day for our little ones! They supported our essential workers, who in turn kept Singapore going…

Image credit: The Straits Times

Several Members of Parliament went forward to raise questions on the recent incidents at Kinderland preschool centres in Parliament on 18 September. #ICYMI, ex-educator Lin Min, 33, had allegedly poured water into a 23-month-old girl’s mouth at the pre-school after forcing her to lie down on 30 June 2023. The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) had earlier said the educator involved has been barred from working in the preschool sector. The agency is reviewing its systems and processes. Minister of State for Social and Family Development Sun Xueling said ECDA will see if penalties imposed on operators for such cases should be enhanced, including financial penalties. For ill-treating a child, an offender can be jailed for up to eight years and fined up to $8,000.

As we await the verdict on these errant educators, let us remember to recognise the vast majority who continue to go above and beyond for our little ones! MP Melvin Yong also acknowledged that most educators are exemplary and that we ought to boost their morale as they have been affected by the recent incidents. A timely reminder, indeed!

Image credit: Canva

Let us remember to recognise the vast majority of educators who continue to go above and beyond for our little ones

Minister of State for Social and Family Development Sun Xue Ling further said she was glad to see that parents share this sentiment, and noted the outpouring of support for educators over the past few weeks. So, reach out to your children’s educators and show support for their well-being too if you can? Let us remember that teachers who are cared for, can better care for our children!

Contributed by a reader.

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