ST83 Guest Editor’s Note

Early childhood education (ECE) plays an important role in setting the foundation for learning. International research has shown that high-quality ECE positively impacts the development of early numeracy, language, socio-emotional and executive functioning skills, thus contributing to improved school readiness. Longer-term effects of high-quality ECE have been found in the domains of academic achievement, life satisfaction, as well as physical and mental well-being.

In this issue of SingTeach, early childhood professionals and researchers share their views about the benefits of ECE and early intervention, as well as research areas that merit more attention in the Singapore context. This issue also features several NIE research projects that investigate topics pertaining to ECE, including Mother Tongue language learning using multimedia technology, understanding the meaning of number words and learning how to count, and a longitudinal study exploring the long-term effects of early childhood skills attainment on children’s development in middle childhood. Key themes that emerge from these articles are the importance of parental and community involvement in our children’s educational journey and supporting early childhood educators in their work.

As a researcher and parent, I am encouraged to know that there are many individuals out there who are genuinely passionate about ECE, be it in terms of educating and guiding our youngest citizens or conducting research to understand how learning occurs and identifying factors that contribute to better learning. I am confident that our collective efforts will contribute to further improving the quality of ECE in Singapore!