Welcome to all New and Returning Families!
Welcome, to all returning and new families. The past few months have been a time like no other in history. The pandemic, lockdown and concerns about COVID-19 have been top of mind for everyone. As we all do our part to manage the spread of COVID-19, many of us have also had a change to our daily routine, including working from home and supporting children with virtual learning, in addition to taking care of our families.
In July, Family Day began to reopen child care centres and our home child care programs. The agency has worked in partnership with our local public health departments to implement health and safety guidelines and train all staff with the new requirements and guidelines for a safe reopening. New protocols include frequent sanitizing of high touch surfaces and active screening of all individuals entering the programs, including limiting access to our sites to only the individuals who must enter. Staff will also be wearing personal protective equipment to reduce the risks of contamination. As information changes, the guidelines and protocols are also being updated. Our focus on health and safety for everyone is a priority and will be ongoing. I want to reassure families that we will be working hard to keep the children in our care safe. Our new health and safety protocols may also require you to take additional time to pick up and drop off your children, and your patience is appreciated.
Across communities, lead officers of health are constantly sharing research about this virus, including information about new symptoms, reducing your risk and getting testing. We are mindful that there is much uncertainty about the virus and what it means for schools and child care, as well as what could happen in the fall, in relation to a potential second wave. The answers to these questions are unclear and this can be very overwhelming, causing additional stress.
Once again, we are here to support you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your centre supervisor if you have any questions.
Diane Daley, CEO