The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) is set to roll out a new pilot programme for home-based infant care starting 1 December 2024. This initiative aims to support parents with infants aged two to 18 months by providing a safe and affordable childminding option.
Programme Overview
Under this three-year pilot, parents can engage services from three appointed operators: EduNanny by Butler, Kidibliss, and NannyPro Care. These providers will employ childminders to look after the infants in their homes or designated community spaces.
Subsidised Rates and Flexible Scheduling
- Five-hour block: S$16.50 (before GST)
- Ten-hour block: S$33.00 (before GST)
- Monthly full-time cost: S$719.40 (including GST)
Parents can select the number of days they need care per week, and those who use only selected days will only pay for the hours used. The ECDA emphasised that these rates are significantly lower than the existing market fees, which can range from S$1,200 to S$2,800 monthly.
Ensuring Safety and Quality Standards
Safety and well-being are at the forefront of this pilot initiative. All approved childminders will undergo comprehensive screening, training in infant care, food safety, and infant first aid. Additionally, operators must maintain clean and safe environments, equipped with necessary amenities like baby cots.
Community Engagement
In a bid to enhance accessibility for parents, ECDA plans to extend childminding services to community clubs. Locations such as Tampines East Community Club and Nee Soon East Community Club will be among the first to offer these services in 2025.
Government Support for Families
This pilot programme is not just a convenience; it’s a commitment from the Government to provide greater assurance to parents in their child’s early years. By subsidising childminding services during weekdays, parents can focus on their work while ensuring their infants are cared for in a nurturing environment.
For more details about this initiative, parents can reach out to the operators directly or visit the ECDA’s official website for information and support.