Why More Parents Are Saying No to After-School Cramming

In the heart of Singapore's competitive education system, a quiet revolution is brewing. More parents are saying "no" to relentless enrichment schedules and instead embracing a slower, more intentional approach to learning. The post-pandemic shift in priorities, paired with rising concerns about children's mental well-being, has given birth to a new wave: the anti-cramming movement.

From Cramming to Curiosity: A Mindset Shift

For years, tuition centers and back-to-back enrichment classes were seen as essential for academic success. But recent research — and rising stress levels among children — has prompted parents to rethink their choices. According to a 2025 survey by the National Institute of Education, 48% of parents with children in primary school are cutting back on extra classes, citing reasons such as burnout, anxiety, and lack of family time.

"My daughter used to have classes every day after school," says Siti, a mother of two in Tampines. "But she started getting stomach aches and crying before math tuition. That's when I knew something had to change."

The Hidden Costs of Over-Scheduling

While tuition can offer academic support, excessive scheduling can come at a steep cost. Experts warn that children deprived of unstructured time may face:

• Increased anxiety and sleep issues
• Reduced creativity and play
• Weakened parent-child connection
• Emotional burnout and motivation fatigue

"Children need rest, play, and connection — not just achievement," explains Dr. Nicole Tan, a child psychologist at NUH. "Too many structured activities leave little room for imagination and social-emotional growth."

The Rise of Slow and Interest-Based Learning

Instead of chasing academic perfection, many families are now opting for child-led activities that nurture curiosity. Alternatives gaining traction include:

• Forest schools: Outdoor-based learning that promotes resilience and exploration
• Project-based learning: Letting children build, create, and research topics they love
• Passion clubs: Coding, baking, music, or gardening led by kids' own interests

"We joined a nature co-op that meets weekly at the Botanic Gardens," says Jeremy, father of a 7-year-old. "No worksheets — just mud, leaves, stories, and teamwork. My son's imagination bloomed."

MOE's Support for Holistic Development

In response to growing concerns, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has rolled out initiatives encouraging a more balanced childhood. These include:

• Reducing homework load in lower primary
• Encouraging CCE (Character and Citizenship Education) and outdoor learning
• Promoting teacher-parent collaboration for well-being checks

Schools like Riverside Primary are piloting "No Homework Wednesdays" and offering emotional literacy workshops for students and parents.

Tips for Parents Ready to Say No

1. Start With One Change

Drop one enrichment class per week and use that time to relax or play as a family.

2. Observe Your Child

Does your child seem exhausted or disengaged? These are signs of overload. Listen and adjust accordingly.

3. Choose Quality Over Quantity

Pick enrichment that excites your child and aligns with their natural interests — not just academics.

4. Reclaim Weekends

Protect at least one day each weekend from any formal lessons. Use it for walks, markets, or just lounging in PJs.

5. Connect With Like-Minded Families

Join parenting groups or play circles with similar values. Support makes the journey easier.

Final Thoughts: Let Kids Be Kids

The goal isn't to abandon learning — it's to reframe success. When kids are well-rested, emotionally secure, and truly curious, learning becomes joyful again. As more parents step off the academic treadmill, a new kind of achievement is emerging — one rooted in balance, not burnout.

After all, childhood isn't a race. It's a season. Let's not rush through it.