March 11, 2020
Dear Families,
The World Health Organization (WHO) has just declared novel Coronavirus or Covid-19 a pandemic. The impending threat of Coronavirus in Minnesota with community-spread of this virus is very high. We have been following the recommendations set by the CDC for schools and childcare settings. We are updating our policies as a response to a pandemic declaration and cases popping up in our community.
Effective immediately:
If your child has ANY symptoms of illness they will not be allowed into care. This includes mild, cold-like symptoms as Coronavirus is presenting for some with mild, cold-like symptoms.
Starting Thursday, March 12, to minimize germs in the childcare home parents will no longer be allowed in the house. Drop off and pick up of your child will occur on the doorstep. Please call or text when you arrive at the childcare home and we will meet you at the door.
If anyone in our family comes down with illness symptoms we will close childcare immediately and will not reopen until that person has recovered.
A family may be turned away at the door if the provider feels that recent travel or activities by your family places the childcare and other families at undue risk. Example: Spring break cruise
Prepare now for disruptions to your routine in the event of a short notice childcare closure for an undetermined period-of-time.
Coronavirus is rapidly evolving in our area. No one knows the impact this virus will have on our community. We are doing everything we can to keep everyone safe. Including but not limited to: minimizing traffic in and out of the childcare home, washing our hands, using a 60%+ alcohol hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available, disinfecting/sanitizing highly touched surfaces, extra cleaning of toys, teaching the children age appropriate hygiene, not touching our face, social distancing when out, limiting trips out of the house and stocking up on extra items if needed. Not everyone is high risk but everyone knows someone who falls into a high risk category. If you believe your family has a low risk of contracting Coronavirus please consider those in the community at high risk when planning your activities. Low risk does not mean no risk. Extra precautions are necessary at childcare to keep everyone safe. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you for your understanding,
Danielle Stephenson