Effectiveness of KidSTART Programme in Key Child and Family Outcomes

90 Mr David Hoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Development since the nationwide rollout of KidSTART in 2025 (a) what follow-up assessment has the Ministry conducted on the programme's effectiveness including key child and family outcomes; and (b) whether these findings have prompted any review of the programme's reach.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: KidSTART was only rolled out nationwide in 2025, and more time is needed to observe its impact.

Previously, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) had partnered the Centre for Evidence and Implementation to conduct an evaluation study of KidSTART from 2017 to 2022. The study found that KidSTART children showed improved child development outcomes and more pro-social behaviours by three years old. These findings were presented at the 2024 Asian Family Conference organised by MSF. The promising findings contributed to the decision to scale the revised KidSTART service model nationwide.

We will continue to monitor outcomes and assess KidSTART's effectiveness following the nationwide rollout.