Balancing work and parenting in a fast-paced city like Singapore can be overwhelming. Between school drop-offs, project deadlines, and unexpected fevers, working parents need every bit of support they can get. One of the most useful tools? Singapore childcare leave.
While many parents know they’re entitled to six days of childcare leave each year, there’s much more to the story. Whether you’re self-employed, a PR, or managing multiple kids with different needs, it’s important to understand the fine print.
Here are 9 essential facts that every parent in Singapore should know to make the most of their Singapore childcare leave.
1. Your Child’s Citizenship Affects Your Leave
Not all childcare leave is created equal. If your child is a Singapore citizen, you’re entitled to 6 days of Government-Paid Childcare Leave (GPCL) per year until the child turns 7. But if your child is not a citizen, you may only qualify for 2 days of unpaid leave under the Employment Act.
This often surprises PRs and expat families. To avoid misunderstandings, check with HR and confirm your child’s status is properly documented. This is one of the most common misconceptions about Singapore childcare leave.
2. Self-Employed? You Still Qualify
Freelancers and small business owners often miss out on benefits due to lack of awareness. But Singapore childcare leave is available even if you’re self-employed—provided you meet a few conditions:
- You’ve been self-employed for at least 3 continuous months
- Your child is a Singapore citizen
- You experienced income loss during the leave period
To claim it, head to the Pro-Family Leave Portal and submit supporting documents like invoices, bank statements, and your child’s birth certificate.
3. Employers Can’t Deny Valid Childcare Leave
If you meet all eligibility criteria, your employer cannot refuse your childcare leave. It’s a legal entitlement under the Child Development Co-Savings Act.
While employers can request advance notice or plan around operational needs, they cannot reject your leave unless you’re ineligible. If you ever face resistance, know that you can escalate the issue to MOM or TADM. Protect your right to Singapore childcare leave by documenting all communication.
4. Real-Life Scenarios Are Often Overlooked
Understanding the rules is one thing—applying them to your life is another. Consider these examples:
- Joined mid-year? If you start in August, your childcare leave will be pro-rated.
- Two working parents? Both are entitled to their own 6 days of Singapore childcare leave.
- Two kids, aged 6 and 10? You don’t get double leave. The entitlement is per parent, regardless of how many eligible children you have.
These scenarios are where many parents get confused—so don’t hesitate to clarify things with your HR department.
5. Combine It Smartly with Other Leave Types
Need a longer break for a school trip or family emergency? You can combine childcare leave with:
- Annual leave for extended time off
- No-pay leave if you’ve exhausted all your entitlements
However, do note:
- Childcare leave doesn’t carry forward
- It can’t be cashed out or exchanged
If you don’t use your Singapore childcare leave within the calendar year, it simply expires.
6. Applying Is Easier Than You Think
Most companies use internal HR systems like JustLogin, Workday, or Info-Tech. These systems allow you to apply for childcare leave online by selecting the leave type and attaching necessary documents.
For self-employed parents, applications must be submitted directly through the official portal. Just make sure to:
- Apply within 3 months of the leave date
- Keep records of your claim
- Have your supporting documents ready
Organized parents make the most of their Singapore childcare leave without stress.
7. Expect Policy Enhancements in the Coming Years
With Singapore’s growing emphasis on family-friendly work policies, discussions are underway to improve parental leave schemes. Potential future updates to Singapore childcare leave include:
- Additional days for parents with multiple children
- Better integration with Singpass and HRMS for seamless tracking
- Greater inclusivity for non-citizen children of PRs or expats
Keeping up to date will ensure you don’t miss out on new entitlements.
8. Be Proactive with Your Rights
Knowing your rights is one thing—asserting them is another. Here’s how you can stay ahead:
- Apply early during school holidays or peak periods
- Clarify how your company tracks leave if you’re new or on a contract
- Discuss flexible work arrangements that support your parenting
Proactive planning helps maximize your Singapore childcare leave.
9. Use It Before You Lose It
Unlike annual leave, childcare leave doesn’t roll over into the next year. If you haven’t used it by December 31st, it disappears.
Make the most of it:
- Take time off for school events or doctor visits
- Support transitions like entering kindergarten
- Spend quality time during exam stress or key milestones
Your career is important—but so is showing up for your child. Make every day of your Singapore childcare leave count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use childcare leave during school holidays?
Yes. As long as you’re eligible and follow company notice periods, you can use it any time of year.
If I change jobs mid-year, what happens to my leave?
Your new employer will pro-rate your childcare leave based on your start date.
Do both parents get 6 days?
Yes. If both parents are eligible and employed, each parent receives 6 days per year.
If I have more than one child, do I get extra leave?
No. Singapore childcare leave is capped per parent—not per child.
Can I carry forward unused leave?
No. It must be used within the same calendar year or it will be forfeited.
A Preschool That Understands Working Parents
At Little Unicorn Preschool, we understand the reality of working life and the importance of being present for your child. That’s why we support families with:
- Flexible drop-off times
- Infant care, playgroup, and preschool programmes
- Open communication between parents and educators
Explore our full offerings through:
Ready to schedule a visit? Contact us today and let’s build your child’s future together.
