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Annual Closure DatesYour Primary 4 child is already using AI. You just don’t know it yet.
Published on May 18, 2026
A mother messaged Empire AI last week.
“I’ve banned ChatGPT in our house. My daughter is only nine.”
She was asked one question: have you asked her friends?
She came back two days later. Her daughter had been using AI for three months.
At a friend’s house. On the school iPad. In group chats with classmates.
The ban hadn’t kept AI out of her daughter’s life. It had only kept the mother out of the conversation.
CNA interviewed 15 Singapore parents about MOE rolling out AI to Primary 4. Two-thirds were not opposed to AI, they were opposed to uncertainty.
They wanted vetted tools, transparent rules, and a seat at the table.
That isn’t anti-tech. That’s good parenting.
But here’s what got buried in the headline:
The AI your child uses at school is not the AI you’re afraid of.
What you’re imagining vs. what’s actually happening
When you read “AI in Primary 4,” your mind probably jumps to your nine-year-old typing “write my essay” into ChatGPT at midnight, alone in their room.
Here’s what MOE is actually rolling out:
● AI delivered through the Student Learning Space (SLS): the same regulated national platform Singapore schools have used since 2018.
● The classroom AI is called LEA (Learning Assistant). It does not give answers. It asks questions back.
● Before students touch it, they complete self-paced modules on what AI is, how it works, and how to use it responsibly.
● Every interaction is teacher-supervised.
That is not ChatGPT in a bedroom at 11 pm. That is structured pedagogy with guardrails.
Two completely different things keep getting conflated. They shouldn’t be.
The fears nobody is talking openly about
Most parents aren’t really afraid of AI itself. They’re afraid of:
● Falling behind their own child.
● Not knowing the right answer when their child asks them about it.
● Their child getting hooked before anyone explains the rules.
● Brain damage. Real, neurological, “is this making my kid dumber” worry.
● Looking irresponsible if they say yes too early.
● Looking reckless if they say no too late.
● Being the parent who got it wrong while everyone else got it right.
CNA didn’t quite name those. So let us answer them.
Fear #1: “Will AI rot my child’s brain?”
The research is real and worth taking seriously. SMU’s Asst Prof Jacqueline Ho is right: at primary age, neural pathways are still forming, and over-reliance on AI for thinking-tasks can impede literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking.
But notice the word: over-reliance.
A calculator doesn’t ruin a child’s maths if the child still learns the maths. AI doesn’t ruin a child’s thinking if the child is still being taught to think.
The risk isn’t AI. The risk is unsupervised, unstructured, undirected AI use, which is exactly what happens when parents ban it at home and the child finds it through friends.
Fear #2: “Isn’t Primary 4 too early?”
Probably yes, for typing prompts at 2am, alone, in a bedroom.
Probably no, for sitting next to a parent or teacher and asking “hmm, is that actually true? How would we check?“
Same technology. Two completely different relationships with it.
The age isn’t the problem. The framing is.
Fear #3: “I don’t even understand AI. How can I guide them?”
This is one of the most common fears parents quietly express.
The answer is simpler than many expect:
You don’t need to be an expert. You need to be curious in front of your child.
Sit beside them. Open ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini. Ask it something you already know the answer to. Watch what it gets right and what it gets wrong. Then, out loud:
“Hmm. It got that wrong. Why do you think it did that?”
That single moment teaches your child more than any school policy ever will. It teaches them AI is a tool, not an oracle. It teaches them that questioning the tool is the job of the human using it.
It also surprises parents. AI is both more capable and more limited than they imagined. That surprise replaces fear with understanding.
The 3 camps every Singapore parent falls into
Camp #1: Ban it.
Won’t work. Your child will find it through friends, school iPads, group chats. Your ban only removes you from the conversation.
Camp #2: Hand it over.
Won’t work either. Unstructured AI use at this age is exactly what the research warns about. This is how brains get under-trained.
Camp #3: Engage with intention.
Sit beside them. Use it together. Ask questions of it. Disagree with what it says. Build something with it. Together.
Camp 3 is the only one that scales with your child. Because the AI in their life isn’t going anywhere and the one they’ll be using in five years will run a third of the economy by the time they finish O-Levels.
The protection isn’t keeping AI away from your child. The protection is a child who knows how to think with AI without losing themselves to it.
What Parents Need To Hear
Your concern is valid. The research on over-reliance is real. Trust that instinct.
Your ban won’t hold. Not because your child is defiant because the technology is already woven into their world, their friends’ phones, their school platforms, every device they will ever own.
The best protection is a prepared child. Not a child who has never seen AI. A child who has been taught to ask: Who made this? Why might it be wrong? What do I bring to this that AI cannot?
You don’t have to figure this out alone. The conversation MOE is trying to start, however imperfectly, is the right one. So is the conversation with your child at the dinner table tonight.
The line CNA’s article ended on:
Empire AI strongly agrees with this principle.
What we do at Empire AI is not teach children to use AI instead of thinking. We teach them to think through AI, to direct it, question it, build with it, and recognise when not to use it.
The children who will thrive in an AI-shaped Singapore are not the ones who used it the earliest.
They are the ones who understood it the deepest.
And that always starts with a human asking a good question.
Where do you stand?
Are you in the ban it camp, the let-them-use-it camp, or somewhere in between? Have you actually sat down and used an AI tool with your child yet?
The conversation continues at Empire AI.
Register for a Free Trial AI or Robotics Class
Our MOE-registered educators work with children aged 4 to 19. Parents are welcome to sit in on a free trial class alongside their child and explore AI together in a guided, structured environment. Please complete the form below and our team will be in touch with you shortly.
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This article is written in response to CNA TODAY’s “‘A double-edged sword: Why some parents have concerns about introducing AI at Primary 4’“.
Google Reviews
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YewHock TAN31 August 2026
Interesting topics which are practicle and useful for beginners. Additional Course on 29th Aug 2026 The AI course on Bazi by Empire.AI was a wonderful eye opener! I also learn a lot about NotebookLM, and was able to generate ppt slides, video in both English and Chinese, and last but not the least, an interview audio file on the project. The co-organiser, Ningpo Guild, was very hospitable, too!Posted on Google
LC Liu29 August 2026Very good course for beginners. Zheng Xuan is a very patient teacherPosted on Google
Jonathen Chen29 August 2026Trainer Zheng Xuan able to share with interesting topics using AI to build & enhance our life time experiencesPosted on Google
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Florence Ang29 August 2026Learnt something new today about AI! Great job!Posted on Google
Peifang Tang24 August 2026I had learnt there as a trail and really enjoyed itPosted on Google
Foo Loy Yong22 August 2026I learnt a lot therePosted on Google
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Yuna Bong2 July 2026I would just like to share this gem of a place that's tucked away in Goldhill Plaza - it's affordable (VERY value for money), has great instructors, clean and cosy, and does an excellent job in developing robotics/coding/building skills in children. I was first introduced to this place by a good friend, and after the first class, my 5 year old was instantly sold! I love that young children get the chance to build their own structures (great for fine-motor skills), learn simple block coding, and test out their creations on the spot. I also appreciate the fact that they are very flexible - there are many learning pathways and we can choose which suits our child best. The centre gives great recommendations to suit each child's needs, and there are a variety of modules available - we are simply spoilt for choice! Replies and updates are also very prompt - there are photos/videos of my child every lesson, and all questions are promptly replied via WhatsApp. Those looking for a great place for their children to try out coding/robotics/building etc should definitely give this centre a try. :)Posted on Google
KA Group Asia29 May 2026The staff here are incredibly kind and professional. My kids have been attending classes for Minecraft Education and Scratch, and they are always engaged and excited to return. The curriculum is fun, effective, and truly sparks their interest in coding. I highly recommend Empire AI to any parent looking for a great enrichment center!Posted on Google
Mehraj Begum28 May 2026My children are going through the exposure modules. Their experience is amazing. The teachers are very patient and explained the steps clearly. They also provided a wide exposure to many different coding experiences and platforms which allows parents to discover our child’s strengths and niche. Teachers are motivating and cheerful. Their belief in gender equality in the domain of STEM is truly inspirational. Empire code also partners with Social Enterprises which teach children empathy and their contribution towards helping the needy. Thank you Empire Code!Posted on Google
QYL Ho19 May 2026We would like to thank Empire Code for the engaging and interesting robotics lessons. My son has been thoroughly enjoying every class and always looks forward to attending. The teachers make learning fun, interactive, and encouraging, which has helped spark his interest in robotics and coding. We truly appreciate the patience, dedication, and positive learning environment provided. Thank you for making the classes such an enjoyable experience for him!Posted on Google
Emma7 May 2026My kids attend Empire AI Novena and we’ve had an amazing experience so far! The teachers are caring, patient, and truly passionate about teaching. Special shoutout to Teacher Aaron for being so encouraging and supportive with the students The curriculum is well-designed, engaging, and helps children learn AI and tech concepts in a fun and meaningful way. My kids always look forward to class and have gained so much confidence and knowledge. Highly recommend Empire AI Novena to parents looking for a great learning environment for their children!!Posted on Google
Ray Tio25 April 2026My Son is on his 3rd Module and almost 40hrs of online lessons. He is always looking forward to his weekly class and enjoys the lessons. We had never been to the school before and everything were coordinated through WhatsApp. Everything is just 1 text away. I just signed up for another 30hrs of lessons before writing this. Remember to check for promotions!Posted on Google
User10 April 2026Very funPosted on Google
spoiled Milk10 April 2026Incredible experience here. As the teacher not only are very kind, but they are friendly to our needs and I learnt a lot thanks to their patience and kindness. Especially teacher ZX who is good😀.Posted on Google
Francis Chong26 February 2026Lovely education centre that I send my son to for coding. He absolutely loves it. The teachers are passionate, education is solid, awesome and fun; not to mention that they have wonderful founders and supporting staff as well. Prices are reasonable too! Can't ask for more la. The above is not AI generated ;)Posted on Google
Ed24 February 2026A lovely place to learn Robotics! My boy has enjoyed his sessions and facilitators are patient and knowledgeable 😍🙏🏼 thx!Posted on Google
xiaoyan wang30 January 2026My son enjoys this course very much . We have been traveling here during the vacation and join the classes .Posted on Google
A28 January 2026My child loves his lessons at Empire Code. The instructors are knowledgeable, helpful, kind and very encouraging. He has learnt a lot in his robotics classes. wPosted on Google
Nelson Loh26 January 2026I asked my P3 boy which enrichment he may want to drop since he has too 5 on hands… he replied, definitely not Empire coding! It is fun & educational, he loves it very much :)Posted on Google
はるあお19 January 2026We had a wonderful experience at this Minecraft coding class in Singapore. When we shared our concerns about our children not understanding English, the school kindly adjusted the schedule and arranged more individualized support for them. Although my two children did not understand much English at first, the teachers patiently and warmly supported them throughout the lesson. They stayed close to the children, helped them stay focused, and guided them using the children’s interests, which made learning in English enjoyable and positive. We are traveling from Japan, and being able to include this programming class during our trip was truly valuable. We were very impressed by the high level of coding and STEAM education in Singapore. The administrator was also very kind and friendly, and it is clear that this school has experienced and excellent teachers. We are truly grateful for this experience and highly recommend this school.Posted on Google
dw dw18 January 2026My child really enjoyed the coding classes at Empire Code, especially the LEGO Robotics and Scratch Junior programmes. The lessons are engaging and well-structured, making learning fun and hands-on. The Novena location is very convenient, and the open house was useful for letting us try out the classes before enrolling. Overall, a great learning experience for young learners.Posted on Google
Kheng Zx17 January 2026My kids is quite happy and enjoy the classPosted on Google
paul yun17 January 2026Our kids tried the first lesson at Empire code and likes very much. We believe it will be good for him to learn the coding robotics at early age. We recommend the Empire code.Posted on Google
Janice Tan16 January 2026My child has been attending this robotics class for almost two years, starting from when he was 4 years old, and he has never missed a class. He looks forward to it every week and is always very excited after class to show me what he has built. He is especially proud of toggling between different commands to make the robot perform different actions. We’re really glad we found this place, and he has truly enjoyed learning here. I would definitely recommend it to friends who are looking for a robotics class for their kids.Posted on Google
Silver wolf31 December 2025Minecraft is so funPosted on Google
HH Bay11 December 2025Empire Code Novena offers a Roblox course that teaches kids real coding concepts instead of just playing games. Through guided lessons, students learn to design their own worlds, scripts, and game mechanics. This helps them understand logic, creativity, and problem-solving in a fun, hands-on way. Parents appreciate that screen time becomes productive as children build and create rather than only consume. Overall, the course turns gaming interest into valuable digital skills for the future.Posted on Google
Jeanne Chin2 December 2025Empire code was a perfect place for my child's learning of robotics and coding. The teachers were wonderful and my child always come home excited about what he learnt. I like that the classes go by credits and lessons are flexible for me to switch around when our schedule changes. Felicia has been super helpful and patient in guiding us through the DSA roadmaps when applying for sec schs.Posted on Google
Martin15 November 2025Good learning environment with friendly stuff and trainer. Recommend to parents with children interested in coding class.Posted on Google
silly dinny15 November 2025We just want to thank the trainer today for being so kind and patient with our boy. He wanted to show me his robot at the end of class but somehow it didn't work after a few tries due to our tablet's issue. Although it took extra time to help him reconnect with another ipad (he was the last kid to leave), she was extremely helpful and patient. Your reception staff was also very gentle and friendly to our kids. In fact, week after week, the trainers and reception staff have shown so much care and patience towards him and his brother. We truly appreciate it and our kids love coming here every week for class! 🙏Posted on Google
Marc Wong6 November 2025I really appreciate how patient the teachers are and how the education team regularly updates the curriculum. It keeps the learning experience fresh, engaging and relevant for the kids.Posted on Google
Pauline Huang30 September 2025My son had a wonderful time celebrating his birthday at Empire Code with his classmate. Thanks to Empire Code to set up all the decoration and conduct the fun coding class according to my son's favourite character which is Pokemon. He and his friends were enjoying creating their own pikachu and learnt how to do coding with it. After that we had our party meal and also cutting birthday cake. Thanks to Empire Code to make my son's birthday unforgettable!Posted on Google
Linda Lim20 September 2025My child recently attended the MineCraft Code and Cake Workshop and it was an excellent experience from start to finish. The program was well-organized, engaging, and provided the right balance between learning and fun. More importantly, my son came back talking happily about what a great experience he had. The added bonus is that it is a 1 day workshop including lunch on a Saturday, which save a lot of logistic issues and a meaningful way to spend a weekend.Posted on Google
Adelia Seng18 August 2025My son has been attending robotics classes at Empire Code Novena, and has been having a fantastic time there. He's not only learning valuable skills in robotics, but have also been introduced to foundational coding concepts and having a ton of fun. The instructor is great at keeping the kids engaged and making complex topics easy to understand. We've seen a noticeable boost in his confidence and problem-solving abilities since he started. We highly recommend this class to any parent looking for a fun and educational activity for their child!Posted on Google
Ly15 August 2025My child has been at Empire Code for many good long years now, it has become one happy place of fun learning, exploring and confidence. The Coaches are Champions! Empire Code support competence and the partnership maintained with parents is noteworthy.Posted on Google
Ria Chee13 August 2025My son just finished the LEGO Spike 1 Robotics class and absolutely loved it! The lessons were fun, hands-on, and taught him so much about building, coding, and problem-solving. The instructors were fantastic, the admin team was very helpful, and every staff member was friendly. He’s now moving on to LEGO Spike 2 and is so excited to join the competition next year when he’s ready. My mommy friends have even started joining and inquiring after seeing how much he enjoyed it. I highly recommend EMPIRE CODE Novena.Posted on Google
Stepyi11 Y2 August 2025My kid loves this coding class, he is looking forward to each session.Posted on Google
ados31 July 2025The instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and make learning fun. It’s a very professional program,we’ll definitely keep coming back!Posted on Google
Cec22 July 2025Flexible in class arrangements and willingness to based on child’s ability. In-charge is hands on, and working in constant improvement. If looking for coding and robotic school, can check them out!Posted on Google
Jane Tan22 July 2025My son has been with Empire Code for a few years. He enjoyed each class and have learnt many new applications such as scratch, minecraft, roblox. The instructors are patient and the customer service is very prompt in updating and responding to us.Posted on Google
Ying Chen21 July 2025Empire Code is a fantastic training centre that inspires children’s interest in coding. We first discovered it when my son saw their advertisement. He was interested, so I enrolled him in a holiday programme. Since then, he has continued with Scratch, Python, and other courses there. He is very enthusiastic and looks forward to going every weekend. The teachers are caring, experienced, and very considerate. We are truly grateful for their dedication.Posted on Google
Hosiana Hosiana20 July 2025Our 7-year-old son has really enjoyed his time at Empire Code Novena. He took LEGO Robotics and ScratchJr coding classes, and it's been a great way to introduce him to the world of tech. Every lesson is hands-on and fun - he comes home excited to show us what he's built or coded. The trainers are great with kids and really know how to keep them engaged. The Novena center is clean, safe and well set up for young leaners. It's not easy to find coding and robotics classes for young kids in Singapore that strike the right balance between fun and learning - but Empire Code does just that. Would definitely recommend it to any parent looking to give their child a strong start in tech!Posted on Google
hanna lee18 July 2025I was initially unsure about online coding classes, but Empire Code completely changed my mind. My son had a blast with their Minecraft coding course on Zoom, and I loved seeing how engaged he was from the very first session. What stood out to me most was how the lessons sparked his creativity while teaching him real coding logic through a platform he already loves - Minecraft! He wasn’t just playing; he was learning and building with purpose. The trainer was so warm and encouraging - even over Zoom, she managed to connect with the kids and guide them patiently. As a parent, I appreciated how organised the sessions were and how much my son looked forward to them each week. If you're looking for online coding classes for kids in Singapore that are meaningful, fun, and educational, Empire Code is a wonderful choice.Posted on Google
Zixiang Fu18 July 2025This is a coding and robotics centre for young children and they are fantastic. My son is attending coding classes here and the teachers are knowledgeable, attentive and caring. My son came home happy after every session and has been constantly sharing with me what he has learnt at Empire Code. Glad we found a centre that takes care of his learning while making it fun to learn.Posted on Google
Joan Hamilton16 July 2025This is a thrilling place for kids! Empire Code’s material is leveled but challenging. It has even prepared my kids well for math competitions at their school (as they often include questions on coding), but my kids only see it as fun! The instructors are great and management is very organized and professional. Their camps are always a highlight of my boys’ summer. We have also held a party at Empire Code to rave reviews from our birthday boy and all of his friends! Highly recommend!Posted on Google
kinghee teo12 July 2025My children enjoyed the classes at Empire Code immensely and have taken up an interest in coding. The instructors are friendly and patient with young children.Posted on Google
Tim Q12 July 2025Great place for kids to learn coding and robotics! My kids love it and don’t want to go home!Posted on Google
Yi xin Teo12 July 2025Empire code classes have been wonderful for my boys. They enjoy making Legos and learning about Minecraft coding. Recommend this place.Posted on Google
Zia, Ying-Xian Chen12 July 2025課程很豐富，老師很認真、有耐心！
