If your helper speaks little English, plan for it from day one. MOM notes that a new helper may struggle to understand your language and needs time and training, especially early on. Use the tools MOM already builds in: her in-principle approval letter and safety agreement come in English plus her native language, and the Settling-in Programme for first-time helpers is taught in her language. Then add simple routines, visual instructions, and a language class on her rest day if she wants one.
What MOM already provides in her language
- In-principle approval (IPA) letter: in English and her native language, so she understands her salary, rest days and employer details. Source: MOM: Eight steps to hiring a helper.
- Safety agreement: her copy is in her native language. MOM lists English with Bahasa Indonesia, Burmese, Khmer, Sinhalese, Tagalog, Tamil or Thai. Source: Contracts and safety agreement.
- Settling-in Programme: conducted in her native language for first-time helpers.
A simple communication plan
- Show, then watch her do it. Demonstrate each task once, then let her repeat it while you watch. MOM says new helpers may not be used to modern appliances or high-rise living.
- Use pictures and labels on appliances, medicine boxes and cleaning products.
- Keep a written daily routine with times and short phrases. A translation app helps, but check key safety instructions with her in person.
- Agree a few words for urgent situations, such as "stop", "hot", "call me" and "hospital".
- Check in regularly. MOM's guidance is that helpers may hesitate to ask questions, so ask her directly whether anything is unclear.
Language classes
MOM highlights NGO courses as a good use of rest days, including ACMI's English and Mandarin classes, which focus on vocabulary and phrases for daily tasks. Attending is her choice on her rest day. Source: Useful courses for you and your helper.
Before you hire
MOM suggests using the interview to check whether you and your family can communicate with her. If language is essential, for example for caring for an elderly parent who speaks a dialect, make it a hiring requirement rather than hoping it improves.
Related guides
- Using translation support during contract signing
- Elderly care helper: interview questions
- Settling-in Programme (SIP) guide
This is a practical guide, not MOM. Rules and fees change, so confirm the current position on mom.gov.sg before you act. Last reviewed: 11 October 2026.
