Singapore launches a FREE comprehensive genetic screening program for couples planning for parenthood

pregnancy test kits

KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) has launched a new genetic screening program with Temasek Foundation to help couples planning or expecting children.

The free pilot from 2024 to 2027 identifies carriers of severe genetic disorders passed to children and helps with family planning decisions.

Called the first in Asia, the Temasek PREDICT (PaREnthood Genetic Disease Carrier Test) program screens over 80 disorders relevant to Asians.

Public carrier screening in Singapore usually tests specific disorders, as such, all pregnancies get screened for the Thalassemia major.

This has reduced cases by over 90%.

According to a joint press release with the KKH-led SingHealth Duke-NUS Maternal and Child Health Research Institute (MCHRI), children with Thalassemia major face lifelong health challenges.

Meanwhile, antenatal screening is available for all pregnancies checking for Down syndrome and common chromosomal disorders.

High-risk pregnancies also get screened based on family history or the mother’s age.

genetic disorders

Image Credits: kkh.com.sg

The new program screens a wider panel of over 80 relevant disorders that may cause shortened life and severe disability, which occurs in 1 in 1,000 people in Singapore. 

All screenings will be done at KKH at the moment with plans to expand to selected clinics.

KKH will assess scaling it up by 2027 based on the pilot.

Identifying risks of inherited disorders

This new genetic screening program addresses gaps in existing tests since most panels miss over 25% of common severe recessive disorders in Asians.

This means many Singapore couples are unaware of the risks of passing on conditions.

Three in 100 babies born each year have rare disorders or defects.

Carriers (parents) may not have issues themselves but could have affected children without knowing those risks beforehand; up to one in 250 couples risks being carriers of the same disorder.

The program thus allows informed decisions for managing pregnancies to understand inheritance risks.

How to sign yourself and your spouse up

As mentioned earlier, KKH is piloting the voluntary carrier screening program for couples planning pregnancy.

Testing involves a simple blood test or cheek swab so it’s nothing too scary.

Couples identified as carriers will receive counseling to understand results and options like family planning.

The pilot aims to screen 40,000 couples and KKH will assess feedback and technology before potentially expanding the program. 

Carrier screening empowers couples with knowledge and choices aligned with their family goals and values, helping them plan for parenthood and be well-prepared for the challenges of raising a child.

The program screens eligible couples for genetic conditions before or during pregnancy and couples interested can self-refer by emailing [email protected] or Whatsapping 6394 3998 for more info.

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Is the time right? Questions to ask yourself when deciding if you’re ready for a baby

newborn baby lying on the bed

You and your partner have been married for a while now, and the topic of children has come up in conversations more than a few times.

You’re both on the same page about wanting kids—eventually—but you’re not quite sure if you’re ready yet. Deciding if you’re ready for a baby is a huge decision, and it’s not one to be taken lightly. There are a lot of factors to consider, both big and small.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of questions to help you make an informed decision.

Are you financially prepared?

One of the most important aspects of readiness is financial preparedness.

Take a good look at your current financial situation and determine if you’re able to handle the added expenses of a child.

This includes having a monthly budget to evaluate your available income, considering an emergency fund, and retirement savings, and how debt repayment will be affected. You should also think about any goal-related expenses you may have, like buying a car.

Are both partners ready to be parents?

Some couples feel a strong desire to be parents, and for them, the answer is easy.

Other couples have to weigh the pros and cons, and sometimes it’s not a clear-cut decision.

Some things to consider: Are you both ready to give up some of your time and freedom to care for a child? Are you prepared to handle the stress of parenting? These are just some of the questions you will need to ask yourselves.

It’s also necessary to talk with your partner about your readiness. Be honest with each other about your feelings and fears. This is a huge decision, and you need to make sure that both of you are on the same page before taking the next step.

What about support networks and help?
grandfather with his grandchild

Image Credits: zerotothree.org

You need a strong support network before you even think about having a child. This includes your parents, in-laws, and siblings if they’re close by, as well as relatives.

If you don’t have a good support network in place, now is the time to build one. This includes finding other couples who are also trying to conceive so you can swap advice and tips, attending parenting workshops, and reading up on everything you need to know about being a parent.

How will a baby fit into your career plans?

If you’re in the early stages of your career, you may be wondering if you can afford to take time off work or if you will have to put your career on hold for a while.

It’s worth finding out your company’s policies on maternity leave and childcare before you make any decisions. Some companies are very understanding and will allow you to take a few months off without having to worry about your job security.

Others might not be so understanding, and you may need to think about whether or not you’re prepared to take a step back in your career to start a family.

What lifestyle and hobbies will need to be adapted for a baby?

Having a baby will require you to make some changes to your lifestyle and hobbies.

For example, if you’re used to going out drinking every weekend, you might have to give that up once you become a parent.

And if you’re an avid traveler, you might have to put your travel plans on hold for a while. That’s not to say you won’t be able to travel with your baby, but it will be more challenging and you will have to plan your trips around your child’s needs.

So before you decide to have a baby, sit down and think about what lifestyle changes you will need to make. If you’re not ready to make those changes, then you might not be ready for parenthood just yet.

So, how do you know if you’re ready for a baby? Ultimately, only you can answer that question. However, asking yourself the questions in this article is a good starting point. If you can honestly say that you have stable financials and a supportive partner, and you’re both on the same page about wanting a child, then you’re likely ready to start trying for a baby. However, if you’re not quite there yet, that’s okay, too. Just make sure you’re honest with yourself and don’t try to have a baby just because you think it’s what you’re supposed to do.

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Here are 5 preschools offering full-day infant care services under S$1,500/month

infant with a teacher at mealtime

Are you planning for your first child? Or got a baby on the way and you’re arranging to have the little one spend their days at a childcare centre?

We’ve heard many parents feeling bad about leaving their newborns at infant care. But if you prefer not to trouble your parents or in-laws and don’t want to get a helper, then infant care might be the to-go option.

We’ve put together 5 preschools offering full-day infant care services under S$1,500/month. Read on!

#1: E-Bridge Pre-School

E-Bridge Pre-School

We will start the ball rolling with E-Bridge Pre-School, which is a member of EtonHouse International Education Group founded in 1995. There are centres throughout Singapore in the North, North-East, East, and the West.

Their full-day infant care programme runs from 7am to 7pm and costs S$1,275 (before GST) for Singapore citizens. However, there are also other fees to pay – non-refundable registration fee, student insurance, and a one-month refundable deposit.

#2: Skool4Kidz

Skool4Kidz

Skool4Kidz is part of Kinderland Educare Services. Their unique Integrated Thematic Curriculum is planned out by Dr Jane Ching-Kwan, an early childhood expert with a PhD in Child Development & Family Studies (specialization in Children and Technology).

You can expect your child to undergo an age and needs-appropriate infant care & toddler programme at their centres. The cost of infant care is at S$1,360 (inclusive of GST) for Singapore citizens. Also, the standard registration fee, deposit, cost of insurance, and uniforms will apply.

#3: PCF Sparkletots

PCF Sparkletots

Next, we have PCF Sparkletots by PAP Community Foundation in third place. They claim to be Singapore’s largest preschool operator with over 360 preschools islandwide. You can easily locate a PCF Sparkletots early years centre near you by clicking through the link.

Catered for infants from 2 months old, PCF Sparkletots early years centres operate from 7am to 7pm (full day) from Monday to Friday, and 7am to 2pm (half day) on Saturday. The monthly fee for Singapore citizens is S$1,364.20 (with GST). Other payments include registration fee, annual insurance, and cost of uniforms.

#4: My First Skool

My First Skool

My First Skool is the pre-school arm of NTUC (National Trades Union Congress) First Campus Co-operative. Opened since 1977, they have more than 140 preschools in Singapore. If you’re interested in their new Early Years Centres (EYC), there are three within the Punggol region at the moment.

Similar to PCF Sparkletots, they open from 7am to 7pm on weekdays and 7am to 2pm on Saturdays. Sundays and public holidays are non-operational days. Singaporeans will only need to pay S$1,364.25/month (before subsidies) to have their infants enrolled. Other fees like registration, insurance, uniforms, and mattress cover costs will apply.

#5: Agape Little Uni

Agape Little Uni

Did you know that Agape means “unconditional love” in the original Greek language? Established in 1995, Agape Little Uni joined the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) scheme in January 2016. Currently, their preschools at Cecil Street, Compassvale Crescent, and Upper Serangoon Crescent offer infant care programmes.

As part of the infant care curriculum, your child will be exposed to storytelling, songs & rhymes, and sensorial games. The full-day price is at S$1,498/month for Singapore citizens. By now, you should be aware that other enrollment fees may apply.

Parents who currently have kids enrolled in the abovementioned preschools, do share your experience in the comments section so new parents in our community can all benefit. Many thanks in advance!

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Surefire Ways To Save Money On Diapers In Singapore

For many Singaporeans, purchasing baby products is a costly affair. Do not get me started with diapers! These product end up on the rubbish bin on a regular basis. So, is it worth all the money?

Since diapers play a vital role in your baby’s grooming, you must get creative in shopping. Try the following tips!

#1: GO BACK TO BASICS

As a child, my mother devotes her time on changing my cloth diapers. The ones I used were passed on to my siblings. Cloth diapers are washable, adjustable, and suitable for sensitive skin. Taking a step back to the old school routine can help you save years worth of cash.

Anything that you can reuse or recycle is a bonus for your wallet. Disposable diapers contribute to your monthly expenses. While, washable diapers can last you for years. Consider purchasing the six-dollar cotton diapers from Lazada.

#2: BE SLOW IN CHANGING SIZES

Diapers come with suggested weight per size. It comes as no suprise that bigger diapers are more expensive. Furthermore, it contains fewer pieces per package. This is why you must take things slow when switching sizes.

The numbers on the cover are merely suggestions. Some children could wear sizes beyond the time suggested on the package. Instead of going with what the company recommends, change sizes once you see a significant amount of leaks.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#3: LOOK AT THE PRICE PER DIAPER

Diapers come in different brands, sizes, and quantities. More often than not, you judge a brand by its price tag. Instead of looking at the price per package, look at the price per piece! This way, you will be able to access whether you are paying for the cheapest diaper price.

For instance, your child requires a taped diaper in small. Pampers offers 82 pieces for S$24 (i.e., 0.29 each). While, Merries offers 54 pieces for S$20.95 (i.e., 0.38 each). Which one is a smarter choice?

#4: PURCHASE IN BULK

When it comes to disposable diapers, it is best to buy in bulk. Bulk purchases are cheaper compared to buying per package. Some stores even offer additional discounts for bulk purchases.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Do not fret about wastage. You will go through countless amounts of diapers once the baby is out!

Sources: 1 & 2

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Am I ready to invest in a child?

There are countless joys in welcoming a new member to the family. A child’s cheery smile and mesmerising gaze have miraculous effects: they melt hearts and boil away the remnants of worry and misery.

However, raising a kid in Singapore is increasingly an uphill task. Singapore is known for its soaring cost of living and having one more mouth to feed does not make living in this overcrowded city any much easier.

In addition to the financial strain, parenthood also poses another competing use for time. Not surprisingly, it remains a constant struggle for dual-income households to balance work and family life.

Therefore, there lies no simple answer to the question of whether one should bear a child and, by extension, invest significant amount of resources, time and effort in the process of raising the child. Nonetheless, the flowchart below aims to delineate the emotional and financial considerations involved in parenting, though they are by no means prescriptive.

Havingachild

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