The nursery is closing early and I need to collect my child; I'll leave by [time] after handing off the urgent bits.
Shift work
Leaving a Shift Early for A daycare closure
Leaving a shift early for a daycare closure is mostly about cover. Tell your supervisor early and line up someone for the rest of the shift.
Say what you need, briefly
The nursery is closing early or at short notice. Name the childcare gap and your plan — remote if you can, leaving if you can't.
Sort cover for your shift
On a shift, leaving early hinges on cover. Tell your supervisor as early as you can, and where you can, line up a colleague to cover the rest of your shift so the floor isn't left short.
Example messages
My childcare has fallen through today; could I work from home around the children and stay reachable?
A childcare gap has come up and I need to be home by [time]; my key work will be done first.
Mistakes to avoid
Don't leave the floor short without a word. Flag it early and help line up cover for the rest of the shift.
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This page shares wording ideas, not legal or HR advice. Follow your own employer's time-off policy.
Common questions
Can I offer to work from home?
Yes, if you realistically can once your child is settled.
What matters most on a shift?
Cover. Tell your supervisor early and, where you can, arrange a colleague to cover the rest of your shift.