10 questions to ask before choosing a playgroup.

1. What's the teacher-to-child ratio?

Toddlers need adults who can actually see them. Look for a lead teacher plus an assistant for the class. (Star Tots: 7–16 tots with a qualified educator and an assistant.)

2. Are the teachers early-childhood certified?

"Good with kids" is not a qualification. Ask specifically about recognised early-childhood certification for the lead teacher.

3. What happens on a normal Tuesday?

The single best filter question. A real programme has a real answer — at Star Tots, Tuesday is thematic English; Monday is Letterland Phonics, Wednesday early maths, Thursday Montessori practical life, Friday art and science. "We do various activities" means there's no curriculum.

4. How do you handle separation anxiety?

Tears in week one are universal. What matters is whether the centre has a settling-in plan — gradual separation, a consistent teacher, updates to reassure you — or just expects toddlers to cope.

5. What's the all-in cost?

Monthly fee is only the start. Ask about registration, uniform, materials, insurance and annual charges. A transparent centre publishes everything — like this. Surprise fees later are a culture signal.

6. Do you follow MOE school terms?

Matters for family planning and signals the programme thinks in terms — with a start, a progression, and an end — rather than rolling daycare.

7. What's your illness and hygiene policy?

HFMD spreads fast at this age. Ask about temperature checks, toy-washing routines, and the rules for sending sick children home. Hesitation here is disqualifying.

8. How will I know how my child is doing?

You're not in the room, so updates matter: photos, a chat at pickup, term observations. Ask what you'll actually receive and how often.

9. Is there bilingual exposure?

In Singapore, early Mandarin exposure pays off all the way to PSLE. Ask whether Chinese songs, stories or speakers feature in the week.

10. Can we visit and watch a class?

The confident answer is "of course". Watch the children, not the facilities: are they engaged and comfortable with the teacher? Trust what you see over anything in a brochure.