The Little House doesn’t operate like your typical preschool—and that’s kind of the point. Founded by Mrs. Katherine (who’s also the principal), this Montessori school leans into a philosophy that treats children as capable, confident individuals. 

The curriculum follows authentic Montessori methods, with English and Mandarin spoken in equal parts. Kids get 1-on-1 lessons at their own pace, whether they’re flying through reading or still warming up to numbers. 

Expect mixed-age classrooms and plenty of hands-on learning that builds social awareness and real-life skills.

I also noticed that the teachers are experienced and well-qualified. Many of them have backgrounds in psychology or early childhood education and have been with the school long-term.

Parents I spoke to say the fees feel fair, especially given the individual attention and grounded, values-driven approach.

Just one thing—spots fill up fast, so if you’re even thinking about it, don’t wait too long to reach out.

Warm, attentive, and extremely engaged.

“Our 2.5 year old son loved The Little House! We had a fantastic experience there – Katherine and the teachers were warm, attentive and extremely engaged. It was very clear that the kids welfare was always the #1 priority. We are now based in HK but would definitely pick TLH if we lived there.”

John Lee, Google Review

Organized all sorts of activities for the children so they could enjoy learning.

“Wonderful school! Our son spent his kindergarten years at The Little House Montessori, and it was a great start for his school education. The director and the teachers are passionate about their work and very dedicated. They organised all sorts of activities for the children so they could enjoy learning. Our son learned a lot, made good friends and became an enthusiastic learner, thanks to TLH!”

Mariana Losada, Google Review

Rain Trees has that cozy, personal feel parents always hope to find in a kindergarten. It’s built around the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, but what you’ll really notice is how much time the kids spend outdoors. 

From what I’ve heard—and seen myself—parents really do see the school as an extension of home. I’d agree, especially after watching kids running around the big garden and helping out during a cooking class.

The teachers are calm, caring, and seriously qualified—many have degrees in early childhood education and take the time to understand each child.

Principal Rohini and Director Katie Terry are a big part of why things feel so consistent here. They’re often praised for keeping things consistent and connected.

Although, because of the quality and care they offer, fees tend to be on the higher side, and spots are limited.

The teachers are highly qualified and experienced.

“I would absolutely recommend Raintrees Kindergarten to any family that is looking for a fun, nurturing and supportive pre school for their child and would also like to be part of a caring and friendly community. The teachers are highly qualified and experienced and genuinely care about providing the best learning experience for each child. The smaller size of the school makes the children feel safe and secure in their environment and the outdoor space means they get to play outside in nature everyday. My family has had a wonderful experience at the school.”

George Daniel, Google Review

Excellent education in a nurturing and caring environment.

“Rain Trees International is a truly wonderful school! The education environment is kind and caring, nurturing the full potential of each child. The staff is absolutely fantastic, from the friendliest admin staff I’ve ever encountered, to the passionate and enthusiastic teachers. Both my sons are at Rain Trees. My eldest son has been to several schools, as we have moved around a bit, and this is by far his favourite school. My younger son has just started and the transition has been a breeze. He already loves school! I highly recommend this school for those seeking excellent education in a nurturing and caring environment.”

Julie Smith, Google Review

The Orange Tree Preschool in Choa Chu Kang is a place many parents return to, with some having both their kids spend years here. 

They balance a structured academic foundation with hands-on, play-based learning, and lessons are taught in both English and Chinese. There’s also a good mix of enrichment classes like speech and drama, robotics, and art.

When I asked for their thoughts, parents often brought up how caring and responsive the staff is. The teachers here hold diplomas in early childhood education, and many have stayed with the school for years. 

Parents also appreciate getting updates through the app and regular check-ins from the teachers, so they feel in the loop every day. 

And I love how the school sits in a self-contained, bright compound with its own playground and even a mini pool!

That said, it’s worth noting that the fees here are costly. The monthly full-day childcare fee is higher compared to other childcare centers in the area.

The teachers and principal are nice and professional.

“It was an academy school who really teaches children fundamentals. The teachers and principal are nice and professional. Environment is neat and clean, food is also not bad, overall it’s recommended. My elder kid graduated from the school and misses the school so much whenever mentioning about his kindergarten. Younger kid is in good progress, I can see the smile and happiness that motivates him to attend daily. I am happy and lucky to make the right choice of school for them.”

Wang Miao, Google Review

The facilities of the school are well maintained with its own private pool. 

“My kid has been in the OTP since N1 and I would highly recommend this preschool! The principal and all the teachers are very professional and they truly care for the kids. My kid is learning very well and he really enjoys his time in the school. The facilities of the school are well maintained with its own private pool and outdoor compound. The school environment is also very conducive and clean. Kudos to all the staff in the school!”

Yi Hui Lee, Google Review

Founded by former university professors, Emile Preschool takes a science-based approach to early education, weaving in psychology and neuroscience to help kids build thinking skills, motivation, and curiosity.

Its bilingual curriculum goes beyond ABCs with early STEM, music, arts, and physical play. 

Parents I spoke to love the organic, in-house meals (think cod and salmon belly), and the low teacher-to-child ratio. I’ve even heard of some thoughtful details like Aveeno bath products and regular photo updates via Class Dojo.

The same level of care extends to the teachers, too. They’re certified in early childhood education and consistently praised for being nurturing, responsive, and up-to-date with the latest teaching methods.

Even the principal, Miss Reina, is known for being hands-on, whether it’s chatting with parents or supporting teachers behind the scenes.

Emile Preschool is not the cheapest option out there, but many say the curriculum and communication make it worth the cost.

Very impressed with the organic meals provided in school.

“My daughter will be enrolling in Emile soon and as a parent I had a great school visit and orientation with Ms Hannah as well as the principal. They were great in assuring me that my daughter will be well taken care of. Most importantly, I was very impressed with the organic meals provided in school. Hope this will be a great fit for us!”

Dharshanaa Babu, Google Review

A very healthy and inviting environment for kids.

“Their organic menu looks so delicious and nutritious. Very good for the kids. The lighting and air ventilation in the Center is good. Not to mention the spacious gym area which is also used as their performance stage. Overall a very healthy and inviting environment for kids.”

Denise Ongz, Google Review

Da Little Preschool at Cecil has built a loyal following among parents who value both structure and heart. 

The school follows a thematic curriculum aligned with MOE’s Kindergarten Framework, covering everything from language and numeracy to physical and emotional development. 

After all my searching, I learned to appreciate how the lessons are hands-on here. The learning is done through exploration and fun activities tied to each theme.

Teacher qualifications here are pretty convincing too—some hold a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, while others have over 10 years of experience. 

Parents I interviewed love the infant care program for its low teacher-to-child ratio and warm, responsive caregivers. The folks feel well-supported with frequent updates and approachable communication.

However, to maintain that level of attention and care, class sizes are kept small.

As for fees, they fall in the mid to high range and may vary depending on the program and age group.

The teachers are trustworthy since their responses are always quick.

“Our daughter joined Da Little when she was 6 months old. She really likes school and teachers, and looks very happy at school and home thanks to the school environment! The teachers are trustworthy since their responses are always quick and they immediately let us know when our daughter’s condition is not very good. We always appreciate Da Little teachers for their kindness and patience to our daughter!”

Yuki K., Google Review

There are weekly newsletters the teachers put so much effort to put together.

“We started at Da Little around two months ago and its been amazing! Teachers are super caring and provide regular updates via the app, they always have a moment to share some quick snippets of our little boy’s day and you can see how much he enjoys himself everyday. We particularly enjoy the weekly newsletters the teachers put so much effort to put together.”

Wan Ling Koh, Google Review