ASEAN NETWORK NEWS | Several preschools in Singapore are preparing to restrict outdoor activities as concerns grow over deteriorating air quality caused by regional haze. Schools are monitoring air-quality readings and preparing indoor alternatives if conditions worsen.
The measures come amid warnings from Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) that continued dry weather and hotspots in parts of the region could increase the risk of haze affecting Singapore.
Several preschools in Singapore have stepped up preparations for a possible deterioration in air quality, including more frequent monitoring and contingency plans to keep children indoors.
EtonHouse Pre-School Upper Bukit Timah, for example, has been reported to check air-quality conditions as frequently as every two hours. The school has prepared indoor activities and plans to suspend outdoor activities if air quality deteriorates.
The preschool has also prepared air purifiers and masks for children and staff. Additional supplies may be obtained if haze conditions become more severe.
Little Seeds Preschool has also prepared alternative indoor activities so that learning and play can continue if outdoor activities have to be restricted.
The precautions come as Southeast Asia enters a period of relatively dry weather, which can increase the risk of forest and land fires and the resulting haze.
Singapore’s NEA has reported hotspots and smoke plumes in parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan. Under prevailing southeasterly winds, smoke from fires in southern Sumatra could potentially move toward Singapore.
On August 9, 2026, Singapore’s 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached 81 in the central region. The reading remained within the “moderate” range, but authorities continued to monitor developments.
Restricting outdoor activities is among the precautionary measures available to preschools to reduce children’s exposure to polluted air if haze levels rise.
Schools can also shift lessons and recreational activities indoors while using air-purification equipment and monitoring official air-quality readings.
The measures are particularly relevant for young children, who may spend significant periods at preschool and can be more vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality.
The measures taken by several Singapore preschools are precautionary and do not indicate that all preschools across the country have suspended outdoor activities.
Whether outdoor activities are restricted will depend on prevailing air-quality conditions and official guidance. Schools are expected to continue monitoring developments and adjust their activities accordingly.
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