Twinkling Stars ECC is committed to ensuring that all children receive a safe, consistent and uninterrupted learning experience. Regular and punctual attendance supports children’s learning, routines, emotional wellbeing and smooth transition into the classroom.

This policy is aligned with the expectations of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) regarding accurate attendance monitoring, child safety and effective Centre procedures.

1. Centre Timings

Twinkling Stars ECC operates the following sessions:

• Morning Session: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Afternoon Session: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Daycare: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Parents are expected to ensure that children arrive at the Centre on time according to their registered session.

2. Late Arrival

A child will be considered late if they arrive after 9:00 a.m., which is the official start time of the registered session.

Parents are requested to plan their journey accordingly and allow sufficient time for drop-off, as late arrival can interrupt classroom routines and the child’s learning experience.

3. Recording of Late Arrivals

All late arrivals will be recorded in the Centre’s attendance records.

The Centre will maintain accurate and up-to-date attendance and punctuality records in accordance with KHDA expectations.

4. Procedure for Late Arrival

When a child arrives late:

1. The parent/authorized person must complete the required sign-in procedure.
2. The child’s arrival time will be recorded.
3. The child will be safely received by the designated staff member and taken to the classroom.
4. Staff will support the child to settle into the ongoing activity with minimal disruption.
5. Parents may be reminded of the importance of punctual arrival if late attendance becomes frequent.

5. Repeated Late Arrivals

If a child is repeatedly late, the Centre may follow a progressive approach:

First Stage:

A friendly reminder will be given to the parent regarding the child’s punctuality.

Second Stage:

If lateness continues, the class teacher/HOD or management may communicate with the parent to discuss the reason for repeated late arrival and agree on appropriate support.

Third Stage:

Where persistent lateness continues, management may arrange a formal meeting with the parent and issue a written reminder of the Centre’s attendance and punctuality expectations.

Continued Concerns:

6. Exceptional Circumstances

The Centre understands that occasional lateness may occur because of circumstances beyond the parent’s control, such as:

• Traffic or road incidents
• Medical appointments
• Family emergencies
• Unexpected transport difficulties
• Other genuine exceptional circumstances

Parents are encouraged to inform the Centre as soon as possible if they expect their child to arrive late.

7. Safety and Supervision

For safeguarding purposes, every child’s arrival and departure must be properly recorded.

The Centre must be aware of which children are physically present on the premises at all times. Therefore, parents must follow the Centre’s designated arrival and sign-in procedure.

8. Learning and Routine

Parents are encouraged to understand that punctuality is particularly important during the early years.

Arriving on time helps children:

• Settle calmly into the classroom;
• Participate in morning routines and circle time;
• Build positive attendance habits;
• Develop independence and confidence;
• Avoid missing important learning experiences;
• Maintain continuity in their daily routine.

9. Parent Responsibility

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that their child arrives on time for the registered session.

Twinkling Stars ECC will work collaboratively with families and will address repeated lateness in a supportive and professional manner, with the child’s wellbeing and learning experience as the priority.

Policy Note:

This policy should be read together with the Twinkling Stars ECC Parent-ECC Contract, Attendance Policy and Child Safeguarding Procedures.