> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://pigeonholeapp.co.uk/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Recording an Absence

> How to submit an absence request for your child from the Parent Portal.

# Recording an Absence

If your nursery has enabled parent absence requests, you can report your child's absence directly from the Parent Portal.

## How to Submit an Absence

1. Log in to the Parent Portal.
2. Go to **My Children** from the main menu.
3. Find the child you want to report an absence for.
4. Click the **calendar icon** button next to the view button on their card.
5. Fill in the absence details:
   * **Start Date** — The first day of the absence.
   * **End Date** — The last day of the absence.
   * **Absence Type** — Select Holiday, Illness, or Other.
   * **Notes** — Add any additional information (optional).
6. Click **Save**.

Your nursery will be notified by email about the absence request.

## Absence Types

* **Holiday** — Use this for planned time off or family holidays.
* **Illness** — Use this when your child is unwell.
* **Other** — Use this for any other reason your child will be absent.

## Important Notes

* You can only submit absences for children linked to your account.
* If you don't see the absence button, your nursery may not have enabled this feature — please contact them directly.
* For urgent absences, we recommend also contacting your nursery by phone.