Singapore is known for its robust and structured approach to governance, and this extends to almost all areas of life—including the care and welfare of infants. Raising a child is no small task, and Singaporean laws are here to support, guide, and sometimes enforce necessary steps for ensuring the safety, health, and development of the youngest members of society.
If you’re a parent or caregiver in Singapore, this blog will walk you through 12 essential laws and guidelines related to infant care that you need to know. By understanding these, you can ensure you’re aligned with regulations while securing the best for your little one.
Parental Leave and Benefits
1. Paid Maternity Leave
Singapore’s employment laws ensure that mothers have sufficient time to recover and bond with their newborns. Eligible working mothers are entitled to 16 weeks of paid maternity leave, provided they meet certain requirements such as having worked at least 3 continuous months under their employer and being covered under the Child Development Co-Savings Act.
For unmarried mothers, the entitlement is still available, but only for 12 weeks. Additionally, part-time mothers or those on flexible work arrangements are also eligible to claim maternity benefits proportionate to their working hours.
2. Paid Paternity Leave
Fathers play an important role, too! In Singapore, eligible fathers are entitled to 2 weeks of paid paternity leave. To qualify, the child must be a Singapore citizen, and the father must have been legally married to the child’s mother at the time of conception or childbirth.
This policy underscores the government’s commitment to advocating for shared parenting responsibilities.
3. Shared Parental Leave
Parents have the flexibility to share part of the maternity leave. Fathers can take up to 4 weeks of the mother’s maternity leave (out of 16 weeks), provided both parents agree. This allows families to balance caregiving duties in a way that suits them best.
Infant Health and Well-Being Laws
4. Mandatory Childhood Immunizations
Singapore has strict requirements for childhood immunization to protect children and the community from preventable diseases. Under the Infectious Diseases Act, immunizations for diseases such as hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), and diphtheria are compulsory.
Failure to comply can result in penalties, though exemptions are considered for medical reasons.
5. Regular Health Screenings
The Ministry of Health (MOH) mandates regular infant and child health screenings through initiatives like the Health Promotion Board’s Child Health Services. During the first 6 years, infants will undergo developmental screenings to monitor milestones such as growth, speech, and motor skills.
These screenings are aimed at early identification of issues and ensuring interventions where necessary.
6. Support for Infant Nutrition
Breastfeeding is encouraged in Singapore, but formula-fed infants are also closely monitored. Laws regulate labeling and marketing of infant formulas to prevent misleading claims. Additionally, hospitals and maternity wards follow The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), ensuring supportive environments for breastfeeding mothers.
Infant Care Facilities and Regulations
7. Regulation of Infant Care Centers
Singapore infant care centers operate under the oversight of the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA). These facilities must meet stringent requirements in areas of hygiene, teacher-to-child ratios, and caregiving standards.
For instance, the ratio for infants (2-18 months old) in a care center is mandated to be 1 teacher per 5 infants, ensuring focused attention and safety.
8. Licensing Requirements for Private Care
Any individual or organization offering childcare and infant care services out of a private facility must obtain a license from ECDA. This ensures accountability and prevents unqualified centers from operating.
Parents placing their child in a home-based or private care environment should confirm that the service adheres to legal standards.
Parental Responsibility and Safety
9. Car Seat Laws for Infants
The Singapore government enforces strict car seat laws to maintain the safety of infants during travel. All children below 1.35 meters in height must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system. Failure to comply can lead to fines or demerit points, and, more importantly, risks the safety of your child.
Parents are advised to choose the right seats based on their child’s weight, height, and age, ensuring they meet internationally approved safety standards.
10. Parental Responsibility under the Women’s Charter Act
The Women’s Charter Act mandates that both parents are legally responsible for their child’s upbringing until the child turns 21. Parents are expected to provide not only financial support but also emotional well-being and moral guidance, laying the foundation for their child’s growth into a contributing member of society.
11. Handling Neglect or Abuse Cases
Singapore adopts a zero-tolerance policy toward child neglect or abuse. The law, under the Children and Young Persons Act (CYPA), provides protection to vulnerable children and imposes severe penalties on perpetrators of abuse or neglect.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to report instances of abuse immediately to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) or law enforcement.
Tax and Child-Savings Incentives
12. Baby Bonus Scheme
To alleviate the financial burden of raising children, the government offers a Baby Bonus Scheme. This includes cash gifts and contributions to a Child Development Account (CDA), which can be used for healthcare services, education expenses, infant care, and more.
The scheme incentivizes responsible caregiving and supports families in giving their children the best possible start in life.
Ensuring Compliance with Infant Care Laws
These laws aren’t just about compliance; they’re designed to empower parents, caregivers, and society at large in creating an environment for children to thrive. Whether it’s securing leave from work to bond with your newborn or ensuring your child’s car seat is up to standard, each regulation aligns with Singapore’s broader vision of a child-first society.
If you’re unsure about any of these laws or need support navigating them, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sunny Days Preschool or government agencies like ECDA, MOH, or your local community centers.
