We're back! A Preschool View of Singapore’s National Day
After a good holiday break, we are back! And what better time than this week, just a few days away from Singapore’s National Day on Saturday, August 9th, which celebrates the country’s 60th anniversary. You may be seeing lots of red and white this week—flags lining streets and buildings, children wearing the national colors, and hearing the 2025 National Day Parade song, “Here We Are,” on the radio. Yes, our children have also been singing this song as they practice it at school with their schoolmates—a great community-building and cultural activity.
For expat families new to Singapore, all of this is likely new and fascinating, especially for children who come home wearing a temporary tattoo of a Merlion or Singapore flag, wanting to dress in red and white, and talking about Singapore’s unique history. They may even be asking you to watch the televised parade on Saturday!
At Preschool Pals, expat parents sometimes ask us questions like, “Do I need to prepare my child for anything?” or “Why are there so many celebrations?” Singapore is deeply rooted in community and culture, and this influences the early years system. Cultural celebrations, festivals, customs, and values are often incorporated into school activities—not just National Day, but also Lunar New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali, and more! While it may feel like a lot at first, rest assured that these experiences are about creating a sense of belonging and inclusion for everyone who calls this multicultural society home—yes, including you and your children!
So what does this mean?
In many preschools across the country this week, children will be participating in celebrations to commemorate National Day. This may involve dressing up in red and white, learning about local history and landmarks, singing national songs, dancing, eating local dishes, or creating themed art. These activities are designed to cultivate an appreciation for where they live and introduce concepts like identity, community, and gratitude in age-appropriate ways.
The nice thing is that you don’t need to know every local tradition to support your child. Just stay open, curious, and connected. Schools will alert you about special days and activities, and often share pictures from the celebrations. You can also ask your children about it—let them teach you the new songs and share the interesting tidbits they’ve learned. Teachers will also be happy to talk with you about what the celebrations are all about!
At Preschool Pals, we help families navigate transitions with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and practical support. Whether it’s helping you understand a school’s curriculum or how local traditions show up in your child’s school day, we aim to ensure you don’t feel lost.
Settling into a new country is a journey, one that takes time for both parents and children. Singapore’s preschool system might feel different and unfamiliar at first, but with the right guidance, it can also feel warm, abundant, and full of opportunities.
Need support finding a preschool for your child? Get in touch with Preschool Pals Advisors.
We’ll help you find the right fit.
Resources:
Singapore National Day – Visit Singapore — Learn more about the history, meaning, and events around National Day from the official tourism board.
National Day Parade 2025 – Official Website — Get the latest details on this year’s parade, including the schedule, theme song, and ways to participate.