“Time and tide wait for none” sensitizes all of us about the importance of time.

We all have such busy lives, and there is always more to be done, and not enough time to do it. Does this sound familiar?

Let’s take a step back to examine why punctuality is such an important character trait and why it is important to practice punctuality with your child from a very young age.

Our children are now aware of the routines and classroom expectations. They look forward to their morning IIP time with their peers and teachers. Punctuality is important in preschool for several reasons, as it sets the foundation for lifelong habits and contributes to a positive learning environment for both children and parents.

What does your child miss when they arrive late?

• The opportunity to participate in IIP time, circle time and share experiences and conversations with their friends
• The opportunity to be a classroom helper for the day
• The opportunity to get settled in and be ready for the day with their friends
• The opportunity to participate in all the fun activities that start right at the beginning of each school day

What does your child achieve by arriving to School on time?

• Ensures that your child doesn’t miss out on the important learning activities that happen early in the day, when they are most alert.
• Early morning learning activity is often reading or writing and many opportunities to learn these critical life skills.
• Helps your child to learn about routines and commitments.
• Gives your child time to greet their friends before class and this can reduce the possibility of disruptions in the classroom.
• Class disruption can make your child feel uncomfortable and can upset other children.
• Arriving on time every day makes children feel good about themselves

Suggestions and tips to be punctual to school:

Are these some reasons why your child does not get to school on time?

• Your child won’t go to bed at night or get out of bed in the morning
• Your child can’t find their clothes, books, homework, school bag….
• The school lunches are not ready
• Your child is slow to eat breakfast
• Your child is watching TV late at night or when they should be getting ready for school
• Your child is screaming or not letting go of you.

Things to Try Here are some suggestions based on setting regular routines:

• Have a set time to go to bed.
• Have a set time to be out of bed.
• Have uniform and school bag ready the night before.
• Make the prep for the lunches the night before
• Have set time for starting and ending breakfast.
• Turn the TV on for set times and only if appropriate.
• Be firm that children must go to school.
• Give your child lots of positive encouragement and acknowledge when they are organized and get to school on time.
• Once settled leave quickly.

REGULAR ROUTINES ARE IMPORTANT