Local ECD centres are breathing a sigh of relief following the decision to allow them to operate during lockdown level four.
Though schools and institutions of higher learning were forced to close as part of government’s measures to curb the rapid spread of Covid-19, ECD centres were given the green light to remain open.
This decision has been welcomed by parents and ECD centre managers. The Advertiser spoke to two ECD centre owners to find out how they felt.
Marione de Beer of Junior Academy said they are relieved because many of their staff members who are breadwinners still have the opportunity to provide for their families.
“Though we have opened, our priority remains the safety and health of the children.
“Remaining open allows us to create a safe environment for our little ones, as many of them have no one or nowhere else to go while their parents are at work. We have peace of mind knowing our children are safe, stimulated and well looked after at school.”
The principal said some of the measures they’ve put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus was advising all persons entering the premises to be screened, sanitised and wear masks.
“We constantly disinfect all surfaces and equipment and no one, except the children, is given access to the school without prior arrangements and appointments. A checklist on all children and staff is done every morning and temperature checks are made throughout the day.
“No school bags are allowed to leave the premises to avoid the possible spread of the virus and social distancing is practised as much as possible.”
She highlighted that children who become ill during the day are taken to the quarantine room immediately and have to be collected by their parents as soon as possible.
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Meanwhile, Mary-Ann Taljaard of Khulani Pre-Primary said they were grateful they did not have to close; hence, they’ll be able to assist parents who are essential workers and those who are working.
Taljaard shared that the pandemic has placed immense stress and strain on principals, teachers and staff.
“When we opened last year July, we had to work with skeleton staff as parents feared for their children and kept them at home.
“When things were in full swing, we ensured parents and children abided by the rules and regulations,” she said.
Some of the measures were no one is allowed to enter the school without sanitising and temperatures taken.
“The children are sanitised before and after every activity, especially toilet routines, and they need to have two sets of masks. The learners arrive with their own masks, which are placed in their bags and then wear their sanitised masks, which are washed at the school. The children’s temperatures are recorded three times a day, while toys are sanitised and packed individually,” said Taljaard.
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