Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon announced more than 250 child care slots prioritized for parents working in hospitals, nursing homes and first responders. Some who work in child care say it's a safer choice than being in schools, which are closed in New York State for at least two weeks.
Lori Schakow is the executive director of Child Care Solutions, a local referral agency partnering with the county. She said day cares have a lot of robust health and safety plans in place.
“When the child arrives each day, they automatically do a health screening to make sure that the child is healthy and safe to be in care around other young children," Schakow said. "They have regulations regarding infection control practices that they need to follow on a regular basis. They are routinely disinfecting toys and all surfaces in the facility.”
Kids are also put in smaller groups at day care than in schools. And if a child is sick, they are removed from day care.
Schakow said the number of child care openings is fluid, as some parents who are able to stay home, can watch their kids. Onondaga County is encouraging anyone with child care needs to call Child Care Solutions at 315-446-1220.
