The incident unfolded in a Singapore preschool where Saiidah Kamarudin, a 34-year-old former teacher, was found guilty of repeatedly tripping a 20-month-old girl. On more than one occasion, she deliberately used her leg to sweep the toddler’s feet while helping her during routine care—causing the child to fall face-first, at one point resulting in a bleeding nose (straitstimes.com).
What made this worse: it wasn’t a one-time lapse in judgment. It happened four times, and she didn’t stop—even though the toddler was visibly injured. The act was caught on CCTV, and only after a colleague raised concerns was the footage reviewed.
This was not just an accident—it was abuse. And it happened in a space that’s meant to be safe.
Why Parents Should Care
When we send our kids to school or childcare, we’re not just trusting that someone will teach them ABCs—we’re trusting that they’ll be loved, cared for, and kept safe. This case shattered that trust. And it forces us to ask: How do we truly know what happens behind closed doors?
Children as young as 20 months often lack the vocabulary to express pain, fear, or confusion. Many can’t describe exactly what happened to them. Which is why early emotional and physical changes are red flags we simply cannot ignore.
This isn’t just about this one teacher—it’s about a system that must stay vigilant, and parents who need the tools to stay informed.
Signs to Watch For in Your Child
It can be difficult to tell if something is wrong, especially with toddlers. But there are signals. Trust your instincts and look out for:
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Unusual bruises or frequent unexplained injuries
Especially around the face, arms, or legs—spots that toddlers don’t normally hurt during regular play.
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Sudden changes in mood or behaviour
If your child becomes clingy, unusually quiet, or afraid to go to school, take note.
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Regressions in behaviour
Toilet accidents, sleep disturbances, or thumb-sucking in previously confident kids can be signs of distress.
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Fear around certain adults
If your child stiffens, cries, or hides when seeing a specific teacher or caregiver, don’t brush it off.
Early intervention begins with observation and open-minded listening.
Asking questions doesn’t make you a difficult parent—it makes you a proactive one. Here are some you can ask during enrolment, or even mid-year:
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“Are there CCTV cameras in the classrooms and common areas? Can footage be reviewed if needed?”
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“How do you handle and document injuries or incidents involving children?”
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“What kind of training do your staff receive in child safety and discipline?”
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“Do you have a policy for whistleblowing or reporting staff misconduct?”
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“How often are performance reviews or spot checks done on teaching staff?”
The goal isn’t to catch anyone doing wrong—it’s to create a culture of accountability and care.
How to Talk to Your Little One
You don’t need your child to give a full report. What you need is emotional availability. Here’s how to create that safe space:
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Use open-ended prompts like, “What was the best and worst part of school today?”
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Reassure your child with phrases like, “You can always tell me anything—even if you’re scared.”
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Keep your tone light but curious. Avoid making your child feel like they’re in trouble.
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Follow their cues. If they avoid talking, wait and try again at bedtime or during play.
Remember, your child is learning how to trust their feelings. Your reaction teaches them whether it’s safe to share.
Holding Caregivers and Centres Accountable
This case was reported and prosecuted—but not every case makes it to court. That’s why parental advocacy matters.
Here’s what you can do if something doesn’t feel right:
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Document injuries or behaviour changes with photos and written notes.
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Report concerns to the preschool principal and request an official review.
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If unsatisfied, escalate to ECDA (Early Childhood Development Agency) or MSF (Ministry of Social and Family Development).
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Don’t hesitate to seek legal advice or request a transfer if your child feels unsafe.
You’re not just protecting your child—you could be preventing future harm to others.
Turning This Into Action
Every painful headline can become a teaching moment. Sit down with your child today and:
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Go through safe vs. unsafe touch using age-appropriate books or dolls
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Practice naming feelings: “happy,” “scared,” “sad,” “confused”
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Create a family phrase like “Mama, I need a break” to signal emotional distress
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Role-play simple scripts for saying “No,” walking away, or telling a teacher or parent
By empowering your child, you help them build the confidence to protect themselves—even when you’re not around.
When We Protect, We Empower
There’s no parenting handbook that tells you how to handle betrayal by a caregiver. But there is one truth: being present, listening well, and trusting your instincts makes all the difference.
This incident reminds us all: no red flag is ever too small to act on. Let’s raise our children in safe environments—and teach them they have the right to be safe, always.
Because trust, once broken, can only be rebuilt by honest conversations and strong actions.
