Monday, March 16, 2020

Maine DHHS OCFS COVID-19 Updates 3/16/2020

The following memo was posted on the Maine DHHS OCFS website this afternoon:

Child Care COVID-19 Protocol for Licensed Child Care Programs


As a private business owner, the choice to remain open and operating continues to be yours. While child care programs are not required to continue operation, please consider the critical service you provide to Maine families.

        Wash your hands with soap and running water often
        Clean all surfaces with disinfecting agents
        Require staff and children to stay home if they are sick and contact their health care professional should they have COVID-19 symptoms
        Follow your sick policies
        Closed door policy is ok at this time – programs are approved to edit drop off / pick up policy to meet program need

If you are looking to increase the capacity of your current license, we have the following guidance:
        Capacity may be temporarily increased due to the emergency need for child care services, related to school closings and optional closing of programs.
        While we are waiving capacity, you MUST maintain maximum ratio according to TEMPORARY EMERGENCY ratios below.

Ratio must be maintained for infants, toddlers and preschoolers in all programs.
Ratios for school age children (Pre-K / 4-year old’s and up) will be waived for all programs.
Please consult with your Child Care Licensing Specialist

        Background check and orientation training requirements will be temporarily waived for all additional staff hired to meet ratio.
        Additional staff hired MAY NOT BE LEFT ALONE WITH CHILDREN.
        Accurate attendance records are very important during these times.

If you have questions, please call Child Care Licensing at 287-5020
 

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