Your Complete Guide to Childcare Leave in Singapore — and How Nurture Infant House Supports You Every Step of the Way

For many working parents in Singapore, there are moments when you just wish you could take a day off to be there for your little one — whether they’ve caught a cold, have a school performance, or simply need extra cuddles from mum or dad.

Thankfully, Singapore’s childcare leave schemes are designed exactly for these situations, giving parents the opportunity to take time off work without dipping into annual leave.

And here’s the good news: as a trusted Tampines infant care, Tampines child care, Tampines preschool, and Tampines nursery provider, Nurture Infant House understands the importance of these days — both for your child’s emotional well-being and your peace of mind. We’ve seen first-hand how a parent’s presence can make all the difference.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about childcare leave, how to use it effectively, and how pairing it with quality childcare at Nurture Infant House can help you achieve true work-life balance.

What Is Childcare Leave?

Childcare leave is a statutory benefit for working parents in Singapore, giving you dedicated days off each year to care for your child. Unlike annual leave, this time off is specifically meant for parenting needs — so you can focus fully on your child without worrying about work emails or meetings.

It’s not just for urgent situations either. You can use childcare leave for:

• Taking your baby for vaccinations

• Staying home with your preschooler when they’re unwell

• Attending your child’s school play or concert

• Joining a special activity day at their childcare center

• Spending quality bonding time together

When your child is enrolled in a Tampines preschool or Tampines nursery like Nurture Infant House, these leave days become golden opportunities to be part of their early learning journey.

The Main Types of Childcare Leave in Singapore

Singapore offers different types of childcare leave, depending on your child’s age and citizenship status.

1. Government-Paid Childcare Leave (GPCL)

• Who it’s for: Parents of Singapore citizen children under 7 years old

• How much you get: 6 days per parent, per year

• Eligibility: At least 3 continuous months of employment (including self-employed parents)

With GPCL, both parents get their own 6 days — meaning you can split responsibilities or be present together for special occasions. Parents with children in Tampines infant care often use GPCL for first-year milestones, while those with kids in Tampines preschool love using these days to attend class activities or celebrations.

2. Extended Childcare Leave (ECL)

• Who it’s for: Parents of Singapore citizen children aged 7–12

• How much you get: 2 days per year

• Eligibility: Same as GPCL

Even when your child is in primary school, these days are invaluable for school events, parent-teacher meetings, or family outings.

3. Non-GPCL Childcare Leave

• Who it’s for: Parents of non-Singapore citizen children under 7 years old

• How much you get: 2 days per year

• Eligibility: At least 3 continuous months of employment

How to Apply for Childcare Leave Smoothly

Getting childcare leave approved is usually straightforward, especially if you plan ahead.

1. Inform your employer early — The earlier you request, the better they can plan work schedules.

2. Complete the necessary forms — Often, this means filling in the GPCL1 form or your company’s equivalent.

3. Prepare your documents — Birth certificate, proof of citizenship, or guardianship papers.

4. If self-employed — Apply via the Government-Paid Leave Portal and track your usage.

At Nurture Infant House, we often see parents coordinate with us ahead of time so they can join their child in fun centre events, storytelling sessions, or art exhibitions during their leave days. It’s a great way to be directly involved in your child’s development.

Why You Should Actually Use Your Childcare Leave

Some parents hesitate to take their childcare leave because they worry about work responsibilities. But the truth is — these days can have a lasting impact on your child’s happiness and emotional security.

Here’s why they matter:

• You create lasting memories — Whether it’s attending a sports day at our Tampines nursery or surprising your toddler during snack time, these shared moments strengthen your bond.

• It supports healthy development — Children feel more confident and secure when their parents show up for them.

• You recharge as a parent — A short break from work to focus on family can refresh your energy and motivation.

How Nurture Infant House Makes Parenting Easier

Even with childcare leave, most of your workdays still require a safe, nurturing place for your little one. That’s where Nurture Infant House comes in.

For years, we’ve been a trusted name in Tampines infant care, Tampines child care, Tampines preschool, and Tampines nursery — offering a warm, enriching environment where children can thrive.

Here’s why parents choose us:

• Caring, qualified educators who treat every child as their own

• A holistic curriculum that balances academics, creativity, and character-building

• Strong parent-center communication, so you’re always informed about your child’s progress

• Safe, child-friendly facilities designed for exploration and play

We’re not just here to teach your child — we’re here to support you as a parent. From drop-off reassurance to sharing tips for home learning, we walk this journey with you.

Childcare Leave + Quality Childcare = Real Work-Life Balance

Childcare leave gives you the chance to be fully present with your child. Pair that with quality care at Nurture Infant House, and you’ll have the peace of mind that your child is happy, safe, and learning when you’re at work.

Picture this:

• You take a GPCL day to join your child’s art showcase at our Tampines preschool.

• You watch them proudly show off their work, beaming from ear to ear.

• The next day, you’re back at the office — and they’re back at Nurture Infant House, continuing their learning and play with friends.

It’s the perfect balance of family time and professional commitments.

Final Thoughts from Nurture Infant House

Being a working parent is a juggling act — but with the right systems in place, you can manage both your career and your child’s well-being. Singapore’s childcare leave benefits are there to help you be present for life’s important moments, while a trusted childcare partner like Nurture Infant House ensures your child is cared for every other day of the year.

So, use your childcare leave wisely. Attend that class performance, go for that morning at the park, or simply stay home when your little one needs a cuddle. And when it’s time to get back to work, know that our Tampines infant care, Tampines child care, Tampines preschool, and Tampines nursery programs are here to provide a loving, stimulating, and safe environment.

Nurture Infant House — where your child grows, learns, and flourishes, and where you find the support you need as a parent.