Developing a Reopening Strategy for Childcare Centres

Sarnia, ON - The Social Services division is working closely with Lambton Public Health and local childcare operators to review new Provincial guidelines and develop a reopening strategy for childcare centres in Lambton County.

On Tuesday, June 9, the Ontario Premier announced that all childcare centres could reopen as early as this Friday, June 12. This announcement applies to the entire province, including those regions that remain in Stage 1, like Lambton County.

There is no obligation for centres to reopen on June 12. A measured, careful and cautious approach to reopening is being taken as a community to ensure the process is completed safely. Childcare centres will only reopen when they are prepared to operate within the new guidelines, including having enhanced health and safety measures in place.

At this time, there is no confirmed date as to when licensed childcare centres in Lambton County will reopen.

As the reopening strategy is finalized, childcare operators will begin to reopen with restrictions in place. Capacity will be limited to 10 people per room and enhanced screening and cleaning protocols will be in place.

Emergency childcare will continue to be offered for the next two weeks. Wee Watch, the YMCA, and London Bridge Child Care Centre are currently providing emergency childcare to essential service worker families and will continue to do so until June 26. At that time, families served through emergency childcare will transition back to previous childcare arrangements, or will be supported to find a space in licensed childcare.

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Please contact:

Melissa Fitzpatrick
Manager, Homelessness Prevention & Children's Services
County of Lambton
519-344-2062 ext. 2016
Email Melissa Fitzpatrick