By Wendi Rank

Day cares can open in the yellow phase, but expect some changes, report Nydia Han and Heather Grubola of 6 ABC.

Temperatures will be checked at drop-off, according to the report. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) allow for temperatures to be taken at home instead of on-site. Parents may be asked if their child is symptomatic, or staff may evaluate the child for symptoms.

Staff must wear masks, says 6 ABC, but it is not required for children. Children under the age of 2 should never wear masks, according to the CDC.

Drop-off and pick-up might be on a rotation to minimize exposure, says the CDC. They recommend one person handle the child’s transportation to and from day care. Children should wash their hands when entering, and staff might meet children outside to limit visitors.

Teresa Miller, who works for the state’s Department of Human Services, tells 6 ABC toys and other comfort objects should stay home if possible. The CDC says toys should not be shared. Toys in day care should be disinfected if soiled by bodily fluids, and those that cannot be cleaned should not be brought to day care.

Staff is permitted to feed, diaper, and hold children, says the CDC. Expect staff to cover clothing while doing so, and that different staff will be responsible for feeding than for diapering.

While the number of children in attendance isn’t limited by the CDC, it is recommended that children of first responders and healthcare workers have separate rooms where possible.

Read 6 ABC’s full report here. CDC guidelines can be reviewed here.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Wendi Rank is a Montgomery County native with a graduate degree from LaSalle University. She has worked as a registered nurse and nurse practitioner in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. She has previously written for the journal Nursing.

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