Hamilton prepares framework to reopen child care centres
HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton, in consultation with Hamilton Public Health Services, is developing a framework for a gradual and safe reopening of licensed child care centres in the city.
As noted in yesterday’s provincial announcement, all centres will be required to follow strict health protocols and meet additional requirements to safely reopen. The new protocols include enhanced cleaning, mandatory screening of staff and children, limitations on visitors, and ensuring an updated COVID-19 response plan is in place. Additionally, restrictions on the size of groups will be limited to 10 individuals per room, including both staff and children.
The City’s framework will be based on the direction of the local Medical Officer of Health, and will outline the requirements for all licensed child care providers in Hamilton, including completing and passing a Public Health inspection prior to reopening. All staff will also be required to complete mandatory training prior to reopening.
“The Province’s announcement regarding reopening plans for child care centres is encouraging for both the economy, as well as for families waiting to confidently return to their workplace. Hamilton’s gradual approach emphasizes that safety is our main priority and is consistent with the City’s broader reopening plans.”- Mayor Fred Eisenberger
“We will continue working closely with both our Public Health colleagues and child care agencies to ensure a safe and supported approach to reopening child care centres in Hamilton. Our priority remains supporting families and keeping children, child care staff and the community healthy and safe.”- Grace Mater, Director, Children’s Services and Neighbourhood Development
Quick facts
- There are 234 child care locations in Hamilton operated by 94 child care organizations.
- The City of Hamilton is one of 47 service system managers across the province designated under the Child Care and Early Years Act to manage child care services.
- The Ministry of Education is responsible for licensing and ensuring compliance of child care centres in Ontario.
- More than 14,000 child care spaces were available in Hamilton for children ages 0 to 12 years (as of March 17, 2020). As part of the reopening, the number of available spaces at each location will be greatly reduced in order to meet new provincial protocols.
- Emergency child care has been available to frontline essential workers through three licensed home child care agencies since late March, free of charge. It will wind down effective June 26 and families will be supported by the City to return to their previous arrangement, or find new space during the transition back to regular child care.
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