Covid-19 Resources and Measures

New COVID-19 Measures – Lifting of Restrictions and Program Updates Updated April 1st 2022

We are so very grateful to our families, caregivers, and children for your ongoing support and flexibility during the past two years. We are thankful for each of you who are a part of Family Resource Connection. Thank you for helping to create a beautiful caring sense of community.

Below are changes we have implemented.

Expanding Capacity and Physical Distancing:

Ontario removed physical distancing requirements on March 21st. Children and adults are welcome to once again join each other in play and social time. Many of you have been asking when this will happen and are excited about the change.

We recognize everyone has different levels of comfort. Please continue be mindful and respectful of comfort level and safety. Families and caregivers have said it is helpful and reassuring when individuals listen and talk respectfully with each other about their preferences for physical distancing, particularly when physically close to one another.

Masking:
Masks are no longer mandatory as of March 21st. Participants are encouraged to wear masks if they prefer. Staff will continue to wear masks for the foreseeable future. Please be respectful of everyone’s choice.

As stated by the Ministry of Education and Toronto Children’s Services “We know that many children, adults, and staff may choose to continue to wear masks at times or consistently. We encourage and promote respectful, welcoming and inclusive practices and communications within your communities”.

Self-Screening:
Please self-screen for COVID-19 and other communicable diseases. Family Resource Connection asks participants and staff to self-screen for cold, flu, gastro-intentional symptoms, pink-eye, and any other suspected or confirmed communicable diseases. We ask for the same vigilance you have shown throughout the pandemic. Our whole community will enjoy better health if you stay home when you and your children are not well.

Vaccination Protocols:
In accordance with lifting of mandates in Ontario proof of vaccination is no longer required as of March 21st.
We are required to adhere to this Provincial decision.

The City of Toronto allowed EarlyON Centres to ask participants to show proof of vaccination for COVID-19 until April 1st 2022. As we move forward, while we appreciate your willingness to show proof of vaccination, you are no longer required to do so. Everyone is welcome. Please continue to self-screen for symptoms of COVID-19 and do not attend if you or your children are experiencing symptoms.

Toronto Children’s Services is providing EarlyON Centre’s a limited number of Rapid-Antigen tests. At this time Rapid-Antigen tests are to be taken by those not experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. You may choose to complete a rapid-antigen test on yourself when you arrive if you would like to do so while supplies last. Discretion will be used to ensure your privacy.

Staff and students are fully vaccinated.

Hand Hygiene:
Toronto Public Health, the Ministry of Education, and the EarlyON Division emphasize the importance of hand-washing and sanitizing and ask that staff, students, volunteers, and participants follow current public health handwashing/hand-sanitizing practices. Sanitizer is placed throughout the centre out of reach of children.

Pre-Registration:
Pre-Registration is no longer required.

All are welcome to drop-in to any programs. However, so that we are able to adequately prepare materials and resources, we suggest that you pre-register for our Ready…Set…Learn and Montessori Sessions if possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Please use the Google Doc form to sign-up. If the link does not open copy and paste it into the address bar at the top of the page. https://forms.gle/3TjuY9bS7jY87H9QA If you are not able to click to the next page/additional times, fill out the required information on the first page of the form.

If you would rather register by phone or are having trouble using the form, call us at 416-690-0102. We are happy to assist. Feel free to knock on the door if you’re passing by. You are more than welcome to join us.

New Schedule, Programs, and Set-Up:
Our new schedule can be found on our social media platforms and website.
New and returning programs include:
-Circle
-Baby Time
-Dad’s Drop-In
-Ready Set Learn! (Registration Recommended)
-One on One Montessori Sessions (Registration Strongly Recommended)

-We have re-introduced toys we were not able to sanitize daily
-We have re-introduced our dramatic, block, manipulative, STEM, sensory, art, and baby area
-Cleaning and sanitizing at least once a day of high-touch surfaces, tables, chairs mouthed and contaminated toys, sensory play items
-Cleaning and sanitizing of washrooms at least once a day
-Weekly (or more as needed) cleaning and sanitizing of other toys and materials
-Individual Playdough and other sensory play

As more restrictions are lifted please continue to be welcoming and supportive of all families, caregivers, and children in our programs. Some are coming again after an extended time away or for their very first time.
Thank you for welcoming all.

We recognize that some of these changes may be upsetting and scary for some, and welcomed with relief by others. Let’s all do our best to create a sense of well-being, safety, and community as we listen and learn from one another. Thank you for your patience as we navigate these changes. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Thank You. The FRC Team

Here is a list of Covid-19 Resources from Toronto Children’s Services EarlyON division that you may find useful.