5 tips to prepare you & your son for National Service

Key takeaways

• National Service (NS) begins with Basic Military Training (BMT) lasting 9 to 19 weeks, transitioning recruits from civilian life to their respective units in the SAF, SCDF, or SPF for a two-year full-time service.

•  Success in NS involves physical conditioning and packing essentials, but emotional support is equally vital to help recruits navigate common challenges like anxiety, stress, and lifestyle adjustments.

National Service (NS) is an essential part of Singapore’s heritage for every Singaporean and Permanent Resident (PR) male. Some may find it challenging, while others may feel it is an absolute rite of passage that makes every boy a man. 

Whichever way, homesickness, financial burdens, stress, communal living, and relationship strife are just some of the things to expect. 

What does NS entail?

The first 9 to 19 weeks of NS is the Basic Military Training (BMT); the exact duration depends on the fitness level of the recruit, where new recruits are inducted into the military way of life and culture. 

In the first two weeks, recruits are confined to their camp, and are only allowed to book out on the third weekend and every subsequent weekend thereafter (unless there’s special training). This initial confinement helps to establish close rapport between section mates and allow recruits to adapt to their new environment.

At the end of BMT, recruits will attend their Passing Out Parade, after which they’ll be posted to their respective units. Some may also get posted to Command School and go on to become specialists or officers. Recruits become Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) after being in active service for two years. NSmen usually serve until the age of 40 or 50 if they are an Officer or have special skills. 

5 tips to prepare your son for NS

When your son enlists, the Singapore Armed Forces will issue him with all the equipment and personal effects that he will need, including personal items such as his uniforms, field pack and boots. Here are five practical tips to prepare you and your son for the two-year journey ahead.

Tip #1: Pack certain essentials

While basic toiletries are provided, certain personal items can significantly improve comfort during the initial two-week confinement:

1. Portable power: Wall socket chargers are often restricted; bring a high-capacity portable charger for mobile phones.

2. Personal grooming: Facial wash and a reliable razor (if he has sensitive skin) as only basic bar soap is usually provided.

3. Hygiene & comfort: Febreeze to combat odors in the bunk, prickly heat powder to stay dry in our humid climate, and enough undergarments for 14 days to avoid laundry stress.

4. Small change: Coins or a small amount of cash for vending machines—a cold drink is a major morale booster.

Tip #2: Build physical resilience early

NS will be less of a shock to the system if your son is already active. Encourage him to build a foundation in the weeks leading up to his enlistment date. The Central Manpower Base (CMPB) recommends:

• Cardio activities like swimming, jogging or cycling 
• Rock-climbing 
• Team sports such as basketball and soccer 
• Martial arts such as wushu, taekwondo or judo

Should you need to get in contact with your son while he’s in training, you can find your son’s unit’s telephone number in his Enlistment Notice. Alternatively, you can call 1800-367-6767 or +65 6567-6767 (when calling from overseas) for assistance. 

Tip #3: Pre-empt mental & emotional adjustments

It is normal for recruits to face personal challenges during the "culture shock" of the first few weeks.

Discuss common issues like homesickness, food adjustments, and sleeping difficulties. Remind him that these feelings are temporary and part of the acclimatization process.

Have open dialogues. Feelings of anxiety or irritability are common. Knowing he has family support helps him adjust faster.

Alternatively, the SAF, SCDF, and SPF have dedicated helplines and professional counselors available for both recruits and their families. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance if the stress becomes overwhelming.

Tip #4: Master routine & functional skills

Discipline and time management are the backbones of military life. Helping him transition to a structured schedule can lower stress levels significantly. Most NS routines start as early as 0530 or 0600. Encourage him to gradually shift his waking hours earlier in the weeks leading up to enlistment so his body isn't in shock during the first week of BMT.

If he doesn't already, have him practice making his bed neatly (with hospital corners) and folding his clothes. Having these functional skills down pat allows him to focus his mental energy on the actual military training rather than struggling with basic chores.

Tip #5: Get comprehensive insurance coverage from Income Insurance

As a full-time NS man, your son will spend a considerable amount of time outdoors which may lead to unforeseen circumstances.

While recruits will receive Group Term Life and Group Personal Accident insurance coverage paid for by MINDEF/SAF, you should also consider enhancing his coverage with Income’s PA Assurance which offers comprehensive coverage against personal accident-incurred injuries for greater peace of mind. 

Some of the plan benefits include a payout of up to $1,500,000 for permanent disability due to an accident, and physiotherapy expenses, and more. You can also opt for an infectious disease cover to cover your son against 25 infectious diseases¹ such as Chicken Pox, Shingles, Dengue Fever and more.

Another option to consider for a comprehensive medical and hospital insurance cover for your son is Income’s Enhanced IncomeShield plan, which can be paid using your MediSave account (up to the Additional Withdrawal Limits², excluding riders). 

This plan allows up to S$1.5 million limit in each policy year for medical treatment, reimbursement for all benefits including pre- and post-hospitalisation coverage for up to 180 days and 365 days respectively³, and the option to upgrade his ward entitlement to a private hospital.

Should you still give your son an allowance?

All NS men are given a monthly allowance in recognition of their contributions. With NS being a rite of passage into adulthood, cutting the purse strings may not be a bad thing. It’s a great opportunity to teach your son how to be financially independent and put into practice key financial concepts such as saving and budgeting.

Help him understand the value of hard-earned money by getting him to pay for his own expenses with his NS allowance. If this is new to him or his allowance isn’t sufficient, consider doing it in phases by gradually cutting down on the allowance you’re giving him.

Have a conversation with your son to explain why you’re doing so and address his concerns, if any. Take this chance to emphasise the importance of spending within his means and saving what he can and share tips on how to do so.

NS is a rite of passage for all SG men, and it’s important to note that while it may be challenging, your son will grow so much from the experience. Give yourself peace of mind knowing your son is fully protected, so you can focus on his mental and emotional wellbeing and be there for him when he needs you.