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Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

The safety and wellbeing of all children, families and staff is integral to our practices at Alive Catholic Early Learning. 

We understand this is a challenging time for all. We can assure you our practices for infection minimisation are in line with the advice provided by government agencies.

Our focus is on minimising risk and doing all that we can to ensure our communities are safe. 

Thank you to all members of our community for actively supporting the necessary steps for limiting the transmission of COVID-19.

As this is a fluid and rapidly changing situation we encourage you to refer to the following government resources for the latest information:

The Catholic Education SA Alerts Page will be updated with the latest information and resources, including any school closures.

Talking to your child about Coronavirus

Are you finding it difficult to talk to your child about the coronavirus? It's natural for children to be curious and ask questions and it's important we ask how they're feeling and clarify any misunderstandings.

This online booklet, developed by SA Health for young children, explains what the coronavirus is and how we can stop it from spreading.

Download the COVID-19: Alive Fact Sheet for Parents

 COVID-19 Alive Fact Sheet for Parents 06.07.20.pdf

As the situation with COVID-19 is changing rapidly, is Alive going to stay open?

Early Learning is considered an essential service, so we will remain open while it is safe to do so. This allows parents, including health care professionals, to continue to work and support the broader community. It also reduces the reliance on alternative care arrangements such as grandparents or elderly relatives who are typically at higher risk of COVID-19.

What’s the best way to stop the spread of COVID-19?

The best ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 is to practice good hygiene, social distancing, limit public gatherings and self-isolating. More information on stopping the spread can be found on the Department of Health website.

In an early learning environment, social distancing looks like opening more areas so children can spread out, opening windows and being outside where possible, avoiding queuing and limiting interactions between Alive and the co-located school students and between rooms within Alive. All excursions have been cancelled until further notice to protect our children and the community.  Our staff have completed Infection Control Training in relation to COVID-19 and are familiar with our Infection Control Policy.

How is Alive working to keep my child safe while they are at early learning?

At Alive we already have various measures implemented for infection control, including routine cleans of bathrooms, toys and various surfaces.  We also support children with how to blow their nose, dispose of the tissue, sneeze into their elbow and wash their hands. Children wash their hands at regular intervals throughout the day and as needed.

Our existing food safety and preparation includes regular handwashing, proper washing, handling and cooking of food and different chopping boards for different foods to prevent contamination.

Additionally, we have implemented the following practices in response to COVID-19:

  • We ask that all children and their families wash their hands as they enter and exit the Centre each day
  • Additional cleaning of floors, light switches, door handles and other surfaces occurs more frequently

As educators, we are constantly monitoring the wellbeing of children and observing any emotional and developmental changes that are taking place.

What should I do if my child is unwell?

If your child is ill or displays flu like symptoms, please seek medical advice and do not send your child to the early learning centre.  If you receive confirmation that your child or a member of your family has COVID-19 please notify the early learning centre as soon as this is known. The child will need to be picked up immediately if he/she is attending early learning. 

 

Parents who are unsure about sending their child to childcare for possible COVID-19 related reasons, should contact the National Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1300 232 272 for advice.

What happens if my child or another child seems to display coronavirus like symptoms while at early learning?

While coronavirus is of concern, it is important to remember that most people displaying symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat or tiredness are likely suffering with a cold or other illness – not coronavirus. Nevertheless, if a child becomes unwell at early learning, our usual routine of care, separating that child from their peers and calling a parent/caregiver to collect them would be followed.

What happens if there is a confirmed case of coronavirus in the early learning centre or school?

We will communicate with families and follow the advice from relevant authorities, like SA Health. It is likely both the school and early learning centre would close for at least 24 hours while it is cleaned, and health authorities trace virus contact between individuals.  Health authorities will declare all expected protocols have been followed and allow the school and early learning centre to reopen.
 
Families would be advised when children are able to return. 

Will we be charged fees if the centre closes due to COVID-19?

If we are required to close the centre, families will not be charged fees. 

Further questions? If you have any further questions or concerns please discuss with your Head of Early Learning.