Singapore's first inclusive preschool, Kindle Garden, has taken a bold step by slashing its fees by 50%, despite facing financial losses. This move is not just a financial strategy but a powerful statement about inclusivity and the value of diverse learning environments. In my opinion, this decision is a testament to the preschool's commitment to its mission and a step towards a more equitable education system. Let's delve into the story and explore the implications of this bold move.
A Bold Move for Inclusivity
What makes this story particularly fascinating is the preschool's willingness to prioritize inclusivity over financial gains. In an economy where every penny counts, the decision to reduce fees by 50% is a bold move. It shows that Kindle Garden is willing to take a hit in profits to ensure that children with special needs have access to quality education. This is a powerful statement about the value of diversity and the importance of creating an inclusive society.
The Impact on Enrolments
One thing that immediately stands out is the impact of this move on enrolments. The preschool has seen a drop in yearly enrolment from 70 to 50 children, which is concerning. However, the preschool's chief executive, Mr. J.R. Karthikeyan, is not worried about the bottom line. He believes that the reduced fees will attract more typically developing children, which will in turn allow the preschool to admit more children with disabilities. This is a clever strategy that highlights the preschool's commitment to inclusivity.
The Power of Inclusivity
What many people don't realize is the impact of inclusivity on both children with special needs and typically developing children. The preschool's model, which includes children with autism and cerebral palsy alongside neurotypical peers, has shown remarkable results. Lessons are adapted to differing levels, and children of typical abilities may trace numbers, while those with special needs may be engaged through tactile activities. This environment yields small but telling moments, such as children helping their classmates with cerebral palsy wear their socks and making recordings for them to hear.
The Role of Parents
The role of parents in this story is also noteworthy. Ms. Shannon Ong, who enrolled her child Oliver Foo in Kindle Garden's first batch, wanted him to learn to accept people who are different. This is a powerful motivation for parents, and it highlights the importance of creating an inclusive society. Oliver's kindness towards his classmate with special needs is a testament to the impact of inclusivity on typically developing children.
The Future of Inclusive Education
If you take a step back and think about it, the future of inclusive education looks bright. The preschool's success has led to the establishment of the AWWA Inclusion Experts Series, which shares insights with early childhood professionals. The team hopes to see more inclusive preschools in Singapore, and the expansion of Kindle Garden's presence with a second outlet in the east in 2026 is a step in the right direction. This is a powerful trend that has the potential to transform education in Singapore.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Singapore's first inclusive preschool has taken a bold step by slashing its fees by 50%, despite facing financial losses. This move is a powerful statement about inclusivity and the value of diverse learning environments. It highlights the impact of inclusivity on both children with special needs and typically developing children, and it has the potential to transform education in Singapore. As we move forward, it is important to continue supporting initiatives like Kindle Garden and working towards a more equitable education system.
