In today’s fast-paced world, our children face unique pressures such as academic demands, social expectations, and the mental strain of living in a digitally connected society. While material comfort is abundant in Singapore, emotional and relational well-being often takes a back seat.
This was the key message from the “Building a Child-Centred Nation” forum hosted by EveryChild.SG on 25 July 2025. Our children need more than grades; they need resilience, joy, and supportive communities to truly thrive.
The EveryChild.SG Inaugural Forum – An Overview
Held in Singapore, this inaugural forum brought together parents, educators, health professionals, and policymakers to discuss one shared goal: putting children at the heart of national decision-making.
The expert panel featured:
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Dr Razwana Begum – Professor and former Nominated Member of Parliament
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Dr Adrian Loh – Psychiatrist and advocate for emotional health
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Michelle Choy – Parent coach and resilience trainer
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Alvin Chua – Social work lecturer and education innovator
Together, they unpacked urgent challenges facing Singapore’s children and explored collaborative, practical solutions.
Parenting Lessons Shared by Experts
Focusing on Social and Emotional Resilience
Michelle Choy emphasised that resilience should come before academics. Teaching children coping skills, empathy, and self-confidence equips them for life’s challenges. Parents can start small with daily check-ins, encouraging problem-solving, and modelling calm under pressure.
Embracing Play and Joy in Childhood
Play is not a distraction, it is essential. Forum discussions encouraged more unstructured play, outdoor exploration, and creative activities to stimulate brain development and emotional health.
Collaborative Parenting – A Community Effort
Parenting is not a solo act. Grandparents, extended family, and even domestic helpers play vital roles. The forum called for policies like flexible work arrangements and per-child childcare leave to support parents in raising well-rounded children.
What Breakout Groups Suggested for a Happier, Healthier Childhood
Participants formed breakout groups to reimagine parenting, education, health, and social work. Here are the highlights:
Parenting
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Launch a nationwide respectful parenting campaign.
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Include all caregivers such as parents, grandparents, and helpers in antenatal and parenting classes.
Education
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Reduce reliance on rigid exams like the PSLE.
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Encourage teacher-parent collaboration and smaller, more flexible classrooms.
Health & Mental Health
Youth & Social Work
How Parents Can Take Action Now
You do not need to wait for policy changes to make a difference:
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Model resilience at home – Show children how to manage stress and adapt to change.
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Prioritise play – Schedule regular unstructured playtime.
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Join the movement – Sign EveryChild.SG’s Pledge of Commitment to Singapore’s Children and be part of a nationwide effort to put children first.
Visit www.everychild.sg to learn more and get involved.
Building the Future, One Child at a Time
The “Building a Child-Centred Nation” forum was more than an event; it was the start of a movement. As parents, we have the power to shape a society where joy, resilience, and empathy are just as valued as academic achievement. By working together, we can ensure every child in Singapore grows up not just surviving, but thriving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is child-centred parenting?
It is an approach that prioritises children’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs in all decision-making.
How can I build resilience in my child?
Encourage problem-solving, validate their emotions, and model healthy coping behaviours.
Why is play important for my child’s development?
Play boosts creativity, problem-solving skills, social interaction, and emotional regulation.
What did EveryChild.SG’s forum achieve?
It brought together experts and parents to develop actionable ideas for improving child well-being in Singapore.
How can I join the EveryChild.SG pledge?
Visit www.everychild.sg and sign the pledge online.
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