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COVID-19 Guidance For Early Childhood Education and Care Services
More coronavirus cases have arisen in New South Wales recently. The NSW Government has released a guide for the benefit of early childhood education and child care centres. Valley Heights Preschool is compliant with all of the measure listed below.
We understand that children are at the same risk of contracting coronavirus as adults. We recognise that children are more likely to have a milder illness and not show any noticeable symptoms when infected with the COVID-19 strain. Despite this, we have planned measures in the event that the pandemic shocks the broader community.
Measures To Minimise COVID-19 at Pre Schools
If children or staff are sick with even mild symptoms that are characteristic of influenza (coughs, sneezes, mucus, difficulty breathing), we insist that they stay at home.
If a child or staff member becomes sick while at the day care centre, they will be separated from the rest of their cohort immediately. They will be sent home as soon as is possible.
Washing hands with soap and water will be done upon entry to the centre, before activities and before meals to maintain coronavirus hand hygiene. Alcohol based sanitiser will be supplied and supervised in its application.
We are developing a process to rapidly communicate with staff, parents and visitors in the event something is amiss.
We are ensuring good cleaning practice to maintain a hygienic childcare centre. We are telling out cleaners to maintain the same protocols as they do for cleaning during gastrointestinal outbreaks, as recommended by the NSW Government.
We are limiting the movement of children between groups at our service where possible in order to practice social distancing to the greatest extent possible.
We are deciding whether or not to cancel activities that occur outside our service and any large gatherings facilitated by Valley Heights Preschool.
We are promoting the annual influenza vaccine for staff, children and their families.
We are not recommending that face masks be warn. Only children, families or staff who are sick in isolation should wear one.
International Returns Guidelines
All staff, children and visitors who have travelled overseas must stay at home for 14 days after returning to the country. If they notice any flu symptoms present that are characteristic of COVID-19, they are to arrange testing for the virus immediately.
The impact of COVID-19 has undoubtedly been felt by everyone living in Australia. We sustain a continued connection with the Department of Health’s releases and for the moment, business continues as normal. We will continue to stay up to date with public health news and assistance programs.
Please trust us that these measures are for the good health of your children and families. We want nothing other than a quick end to the pandemic. We are doing all we can to sustain a preventative and hygienic early learning and childcare environment. Feel free to contact us with any questions.