Singapore parents prioritise character development but worry about children's prospects

An Institute of Policy Studies survey reveals a shift in parental values toward holistic child development, with more families emphasising character-building and soft skills alongside academic achievement. However, the research indicates that this broader perspective has not alleviated stress levels among parents navigating their children's educational journeys.

The study found that educational pressures within households are intensifying, with an increasing proportion of parents experiencing disagreements with their spouses over schooling decisions and future planning. These disputes reflect deeper anxieties about Singapore's competitive landscape and the perceived pathways to success for the next generation.

While parents increasingly acknowledge that non-academic factors such as resilience, creativity, and interpersonal skills are vital to their children's long-term wellbeing, many continue to grapple with uncertainty about how to balance these priorities against academic performance expectations. The tension between valuing diverse competencies and managing concerns about future opportunities appears to be creating pressure points within many households.

The findings suggest that shifting parental mindsets towards character development have not yet translated into reduced educational anxiety. Experts note that parents may benefit from clearer frameworks and greater institutional support to reconcile their evolving values with concerns about their children's prospects in an increasingly uncertain economic environment.