> Then you arrive early, and then what

Yes, being a bit early sometimes is a natural consequence of leaving enough time so that you're not late. Being late is much worse than being early because it is disrespectful of other peoples time.

If you're a bit early, then you get a few stress free minutes to hang out with your kid: sit in the car and sing songs together, run around the school yard, take a walk, talk about whats been on their mind lately etc.