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Choosing the right enrichment program for your child in Singapore can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Three of the most established programs—Kumon, Eye Level, and I Can Read—each offer unique approaches to supplementary education, but understanding their differences is crucial to finding the best fit for your child’s learning style and needs.
As parents ourselves, we understand that you’re looking for more than marketing promises; you want real insights from other families who have experienced these programs firsthand. That’s why we’ve compiled and analyzed parent reviews and feedback across all three enrichment centers to bring you an authentic comparison that goes beyond the brochures.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine how each program approaches teaching, what subjects they offer, what parents genuinely think about their children’s progress, and practical considerations like cost and location accessibility. Whether your priority is mathematics mastery, reading proficiency, or building a solid foundation for academic excellence, this comparison will help you make an informed decision tailored to your child’s educational journey in Singapore.
Overview of Programs
Kumon
Founded in 1954 by Japanese educator Toru Kumon, this program has grown into one of the world’s largest after-school learning networks with over 4 million students across more than 50 countries. Kumon entered the Singapore market in 1988 and has established a strong presence with centers across the island.
Kumon’s core philosophy centers on self-learning and mastery through repetition. The program is built around carefully sequenced worksheets that students complete at their own pace, gradually increasing in difficulty. Rather than directly teaching concepts, Kumon aims to develop self-learning skills by having students work through problems independently before seeking assistance from instructors.
The program primarily focuses on mathematics and language (English) skills, with students typically attending sessions twice a week. Each child works based on ability rather than age, meaning they can progress beyond or focus below their school grade level as needed. This individualized approach is one of Kumon’s distinguishing features, allowing students to advance based on mastery rather than time spent.
Eye Level
Originally known as E.nopi in South Korea where it was founded in 1976, Eye Level (rebranded in 2011) offers a more balanced approach between guided learning and self-directed study. The program’s name reflects its philosophy of viewing education from the child’s perspective—at the “eye level” of the student.
Eye Level combines the Eastern educational emphasis on fundamentals and mastery with Western concepts of critical thinking and application. Like Kumon, it offers mathematics and English programs, but it also includes critical thinking components and a more interactive approach with instructors. The program uses both booklets and online learning tools, giving it a more contemporary feel than Kumon’s strictly paper-based system.
Students typically attend sessions once or twice weekly, with a portion devoted to instructor-guided learning followed by self-directed practice. Eye Level emphasizes building confidence along with competence, with a structured reward system to acknowledge progress. The program has expanded significantly in Singapore in recent years, appealing to parents looking for a blend of traditional and modern educational approaches.
I Can Read
Unlike the first two programs which offer both mathematics and language skills, I Can Read specializes exclusively in English literacy. Founded in 2000 by educational psychologists in Australia and first established in Singapore in 2001, I Can Read takes a more specialized approach focused on phonemic awareness and reading skills.
The program was developed based on extensive research in linguistics and reading psychology, using a systematic method of teaching children to decode and encode the English language. Classes are more structured as group lessons rather than individual self-paced work, though they still provide differentiated instruction based on ability levels.
I Can Read offers various levels from pre-reading skills for children as young as 2.5 years to advanced comprehension and writing for older students. Classes typically meet once weekly for longer sessions (60-90 minutes depending on level) and often involve interactive activities, games, and guided reading exercises. This program tends to appeal to parents specifically concerned about English language acquisition, reading fluency, and comprehension skills.
Teaching Methodology Comparison
When comparing the teaching methodologies of these three programs, significant philosophical and practical differences emerge that can substantially impact your child’s learning experience.
Kumon employs what educators call a “mastery learning” approach. Students must demonstrate complete understanding of concepts through near-perfect worksheet completion before advancing to new material. The method relies heavily on repetition and practice, with instructors serving primarily as facilitators rather than teachers. This instructor typically doesn’t explain concepts upfront but instead guides students to discover solutions themselves when they encounter difficulties. This approach can build strong independence and confidence in self-directed learning but may frustrate students who prefer more explicit instruction.
Eye Level takes a more balanced pathway between Eastern and Western educational philosophies. While it still emphasizes foundational skills and practice (similar to Kumon), it incorporates more instructor guidance and explanation of concepts. The program integrates critical thinking activities alongside basic skill development, attempting to bridge procedural knowledge (how to solve problems) with conceptual understanding (why methods work). Eye Level instructors take a more active role in explaining new concepts before students practice independently.
I Can Read stands apart with its classroom-based, teacher-led approach. Using a proprietary phonics method called CSI (Code, Sound, Image), instructors explicitly teach reading skills in sequential lessons. Classes follow a structured format with group activities, guided practice, and interactive learning games. This methodology aligns more closely with traditional classroom teaching but in smaller groups, allowing for more individualized attention than a school environment while maintaining the benefits of peer learning and social interaction.
A key consideration for parents is matching their child’s learning preferences with the right methodology. Children who thrive with independent work and minimal instruction might excel in Kumon. Those who benefit from a balance of guidance and independent practice might prefer Eye Level. Children who learn best through interactive, explicit instruction in a social setting often respond well to I Can Read’s approach.
Curriculum and Subjects Offered
The curriculum scope varies significantly among these three enrichment programs, with each offering different subject focus areas and depth of content.
Kumon offers two primary subjects: Mathematics and English (referred to as Kumon Reading in some centers). The Mathematics program begins with number recognition and counting for young learners and advances through calculus and differential equations at the highest levels—well beyond Singapore’s A-Level curriculum. The English program starts with letter recognition and progresses through reading comprehension, grammar, and eventually literary analysis of complex texts. What distinguishes Kumon’s curriculum is its continuum design—each worksheet builds incrementally on previous concepts with minimal conceptual jumps, allowing students to advance to extraordinarily high levels through constant, gradual progression.
Eye Level’s curriculum covers Mathematics, English, and Critical Thinking. The Mathematics program spans basic numeracy through advanced algebra and includes both computation skills and problem-solving strategies. The English curriculum addresses reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills across 15 proficiency levels. What sets Eye Level apart is its dedicated Critical Thinking program that focuses on developing logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and analytical skills—competencies increasingly valued in Singapore’s education system. The program also incorporates more real-world applications and word problems than Kumon, especially in its mathematics materials.
I Can Read offers the narrowest subject focus but the deepest specialization in English literacy. Their curriculum is segmented into eight proficiency levels, from pre-reading skills (phonemic awareness, letter recognition) through advanced reading comprehension, creative writing, and public speaking. The program includes dedicated components for vocabulary development, grammar, spelling, and writing skills. I Can Read also offers specialized courses for English as a Second Language learners and remedial programs for students with reading difficulties, making it particularly valuable for families with specific English language concerns.
For families considering these programs, the curriculum choice often comes down to educational priorities. If mathematical excellence and academic advancement well beyond grade level is the goal, Kumon offers the most extensive pathway. For families seeking a balance across subjects with added emphasis on thinking skills, Eye Level provides broader development. Parents specifically concerned with English language proficiency, especially reading and writing skills, will find I Can Read’s specialized curriculum most comprehensive in that domain.
Parent Reviews and Satisfaction
Parent feedback provides invaluable insights into how these enrichment programs perform in practice. We’ve gathered and analyzed reviews from Singaporean parents to identify patterns in satisfaction and concerns across all three programs.
Kumon Parent Feedback
Parents who report high satisfaction with Kumon frequently mention significant academic improvement, particularly in mathematics. Many praise how the program has helped their children develop independence and discipline in their studies. One parent commented, “After 18 months in Kumon, my daughter not only improved her math scores but now approaches all her schoolwork with more confidence and organization.” Parents also appreciate the program’s global reputation and track record, often citing this as a key factor in their decision.
However, common criticisms emerge across reviews. Many parents note the repetitive nature of the worksheets can lead to boredom or resistance from children, especially those with creative learning styles. The significant homework requirement (typically 20-30 minutes daily) creates challenges for families with busy schedules. Some parents express concern about the minimal instructional component, noting their children sometimes struggle without explicit teaching. As one parent noted, “My son excels when concepts are explained clearly first, but Kumon expects him to figure things out through the worksheets, which has led to frustration.”
Parent satisfaction appears highest when children are self-motivated and analytically minded. Families report mixed results when using Kumon for children with learning differences or those who prefer interactive learning environments.
Eye Level Parent Feedback
Eye Level receives favorable reviews from parents who value the balance between structured learning and creative thinking. Many cite the program’s emphasis on real-world problem solving as particularly beneficial. “The critical thinking component really sets Eye Level apart,” wrote one parent. “My child is learning not just to calculate but to reason through problems logically.” Parents frequently mention appreciating the more personable relationship between instructors and students compared to Kumon’s more hands-off approach.
Areas of dissatisfaction include inconsistent teaching quality across different centers, with some parents noting significant variation depending on the specific instructor assigned to their child. Some parents feel the program advances more slowly than Kumon, particularly in mathematics. “While we appreciate the balanced approach, my son isn’t being challenged at the advanced level I was hoping for,” observed one parent. The hybrid paper-and-digital approach receives mixed reviews, with some families appreciating the modernization while others find the online components occasionally glitchy.
Eye Level appears to work best for children who benefit from more guidance and explanation, with parent satisfaction highest among those seeking balanced development rather than accelerated advancement in a single subject.
I Can Read Parent Feedback
Parents who choose I Can Read report high satisfaction with the program’s impact on reading skills and English language development. The structured phonics approach receives particular praise from parents whose children previously struggled with reading. “The transformation in my daughter’s reading confidence was remarkable,” shared one parent. “She went from avoiding books to reading voluntarily within six months.” Many parents appreciate the smaller class sizes and systematic approach to literacy.
The most common criticisms center on cost (I Can Read tends to be more expensive per hour than the other programs) and the single-subject focus. Some parents note that progress can feel slower compared to other programs because of the once-weekly class schedule. A few mention that children who are already strong readers may not benefit as significantly as those with reading challenges. “For children who are naturally inclined toward reading, the program might not offer enough advanced content,” suggested one reviewer.
Parent satisfaction is notably highest among families of younger children (preschool through primary 3) and those specifically seeking reading support or English language enrichment. Many parents of bilingual children particularly value the program’s systematic approach to English phonics and pronunciation.
Across all three programs, a consistent pattern emerges: parent satisfaction correlates strongly with how well the program’s methodology aligns with the individual child’s learning style and specific educational needs. This suggests that the “best” program varies by child rather than existing as a universal recommendation.
Cost Comparison
Financial considerations play an important role for most Singapore families when selecting enrichment programs. The three programs differ not only in their base fees but also in additional costs and value propositions.
Kumon typically charges between $140-$180 monthly per subject in Singapore, with most centers requiring a one-time registration fee of approximately $40-$80. Students attend twice weekly, making the per-session cost relatively economical. However, parents should factor in the cost of transportation for these twice-weekly visits. Some centers offer sibling discounts or promotional rates for enrolling in multiple subjects. The worksheet-based approach means there are few additional material costs, though some parents report occasionally purchasing supplementary Kumon practice books.
Eye Level pricing ranges from $160-$220 monthly per subject, with sessions typically scheduled once or twice weekly depending on the selected program. Registration fees are comparable to Kumon at approximately $50-$90. Some Eye Level centers charge separately for their Critical Thinking program, potentially adding $140-$180 monthly for families wanting this additional component. The program includes both physical and digital materials, with some centers charging a small technology fee for access to online resources. Most locations offer package discounts for enrolling in multiple subjects.
I Can Read generally has the highest per-hour cost, with monthly fees ranging from $180-$280 depending on the program level and center location. Classes meet once weekly for 60-90 minutes, making the total monthly hours fewer than the other programs. Registration fees average $60-$100, and the program requires purchasing specific readers and workbooks every few months (approximately $30-$50 per set). Some centers offer assessment-based placement discounts or referral incentives.
Beyond the basic fee structure, parents should consider long-term cost implications. Kumon’s self-paced approach means advanced students may progress quickly, potentially leading to higher material costs as they move through levels rapidly. Eye Level’s balanced approach typically sees students advancing at a steadier pace. I Can Read’s specialized focus might require fewer years of enrollment if specific reading goals are achieved.
Value perception varies significantly among parents. Those prioritizing maximum instructional hours may find Kumon most economical on a per-hour basis. Families seeking breadth across subjects might see better value in Eye Level’s multi-disciplinary approach. Parents specifically concerned with English literacy often feel I Can Read’s specialization justifies its premium pricing despite fewer total hours.
Locations and Accessibility
Convenience and accessibility are practical factors that significantly impact the sustainability of any enrichment program for busy Singaporean families. Each of these three programs has different coverage across the island.
Kumon maintains the largest footprint in Singapore with over 90 centers island-wide. Centers are typically located near residential areas, in community centers, and near primary schools. This extensive network means most families live within reasonable distance of multiple Kumon centers, offering flexibility in scheduling and location. Most centers operate Monday through Saturday with extended afternoon and evening hours on weekdays, accommodating various family schedules. The twice-weekly attendance requirement, however, means transportation logistics and scheduling become important considerations for many families.
Eye Level has expanded significantly in recent years and now operates approximately 40 centers across Singapore. While not as ubiquitous as Kumon, they have strategically placed centers in major residential areas and near transportation hubs. Most Eye Level centers are located in shopping malls or commercial buildings, often providing easier access to parking than community-based centers. Operating hours are similar to Kumon, with weekday afternoons/evenings and weekend availability. The option for once-weekly attendance in some programs offers greater scheduling flexibility for families with multiple commitments.
I Can Read has approximately 25 centers in Singapore, making it the least accessible of the three programs in terms of pure location numbers. Centers are concentrated in major residential districts and shopping centers, with fewer options in outlying areas. However, the once-weekly class schedule mitigates some accessibility challenges. Most centers offer classes from early afternoon through evening on weekdays and throughout the day on weekends. Some locations provide consecutive sibling scheduling to help parents with multiple children manage their time efficiently.
For families living near MRT stations, accessibility via public transportation varies by program. Many enrichment centers in Singapore strategically position themselves near MRT stations, though specific transit accessibility varies by location. Kumon’s community-based approach often places centers within walking distance of residential areas but sometimes farther from MRT stations. Eye Level and I Can Read’s preference for commercial locations typically offers better MRT connectivity but might require longer walks from residential neighborhoods.
Beyond physical locations, it’s worth noting that none of these programs currently offer fully remote learning options, though Eye Level does incorporate some online components as supplements to in-person learning. All three programs require regular physical attendance, making location a crucial consideration for long-term program sustainability.
Which Program is Right for Your Child?
After analyzing parent feedback, teaching methodologies, curriculum offerings, costs, and locations, it becomes clear that matching your child’s specific learning style and needs with the right program is crucial for success. Here’s a framework to help you determine which might be the best fit for your family:
Kumon might be ideal if:
Your child is self-motivated and works well independently. Children who enjoy systematic progress and measurable achievement often thrive in Kumon’s structured environment. The program is particularly strong for students seeking to excel in mathematics or advance significantly beyond their grade level. Kumon also works well for families with predictable schedules who can accommodate twice-weekly center visits and daily homework routines. If your priority is building academic discipline and independence alongside subject mastery, Kumon’s approach aligns well with these goals.
Eye Level could be the better choice if:
Your child benefits from a balance between guidance and independent work. Students who enjoy problem-solving and critical thinking challenges often engage well with Eye Level’s broader curriculum approach. The program suits families looking for development across multiple domains (mathematical, linguistic, and analytical) rather than intensive focus in a single area. If you value a more personalized relationship with instructors and a learning environment that bridges Eastern and Western educational philosophies, Eye Level offers this balanced approach while still maintaining academic rigor.
I Can Read would likely be most suitable if:
Your primary concern is English language development, particularly reading and writing skills. Children who learn best in interactive, social environments with explicit instruction often thrive in I Can Read’s classroom-based approach. The program is particularly valuable for younger learners building foundational literacy, children in bilingual households, or students encountering specific challenges with reading. If you prefer a specialized program with proven methodology rather than a general enrichment approach, I Can Read’s focused expertise in literacy development provides this specialization.
Many Singaporean parents find that the most beneficial approach is to start with their child’s greatest area of need or interest. For instance, a child struggling with reading comprehension might benefit most immediately from I Can Read, while a mathematically inclined student looking for greater challenges might thrive in Kumon’s advanced mathematics track.
It’s also worth considering that these programs are not mutually exclusive in the long term. Some families begin with one program to address a specific need (such as I Can Read for English foundation) and later transition to another program for broader development (such as Eye Level for continued growth across subjects). Others maintain enrollment in complementary programs simultaneously, such as Kumon for mathematics and I Can Read for English, though this approach requires careful consideration of scheduling and overall enrichment load.
Before committing to any program, take advantage of trial classes or observation opportunities. Many top-rated enrichment centers in Singapore offer assessment sessions that can provide valuable insights into how your child responds to their specific teaching methodology. These firsthand experiences often reveal compatibility factors that brochures and websites cannot convey.
Conclusion
After examining Kumon, Eye Level, and I Can Read from multiple angles—teaching methodologies, curriculum offerings, parent feedback, costs, and accessibility—it’s evident that each program offers distinct advantages for different types of learners and family priorities in Singapore’s competitive educational landscape.
Kumon stands out for its disciplined, mastery-based approach that builds independence and can accelerate students significantly beyond grade level, particularly in mathematics. Eye Level offers a more balanced educational philosophy that develops critical thinking alongside fundamental skills, with greater instructor guidance. I Can Read provides specialized expertise in English literacy through a structured phonics approach in a more traditional classroom setting.
Rather than declaring one program universally superior, this comparison highlights the importance of alignment between your child’s learning style, your family’s educational priorities, and the program’s methodology. The most successful enrichment experience comes from thoughtful matching of these factors.
As you consider these options, remember that enrichment should complement, not overwhelm, your child’s overall development. The right program should build confidence and capability while nurturing a positive relationship with learning—outcomes that transcend any specific curriculum or methodology.
For personalized recommendations and to connect with other parents who have experience with these programs, consider joining Skoolopedia’s membership community where you can access crowdsourced reviews and participate in our “Ask the Experts” Q&A sessions. You can also explore enrichment centers near MRT stations to find convenient options for your family’s schedule and location.
Find the Perfect Enrichment Program for Your Child
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