If you need childcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may want to hire an in-home provider to minimize potential exposure to the virus. If you’re interested in a childcare facility, look into the COVID-19 precautions being taken there.
Childcare in Your Home
When bringing a childcare professional or babysitter Into your home, asking about their own COVID-19 precautions can be helpful when considering your family’s potential for exposure to the virus.
Are they fully vaccinated against COVID-19? Do they wear a mask when out in public or around people they do not live with? Are they still attending large gatherings, etc.?
Your own precautions could include requiring the care provider to:
- Wear a face mask and wash (or sanitize) hands regularly when around your child and family.
- Wear a mask, sanitize hands regularly and socially distance (staying 6 feet apart) from others when out with your toddler. Help your child to do the same.
Childcare Outside of Your Home
Some childcare facilities have been closed during the pandemic. If you’re considering a facility (or family daycare) that is open or has re-opened:
- Check out this info on COVID-19 preventive measures to ask about in childcare settings, from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
- Ask the whether the facility allows parents to visit their child at any time during the day. Centers that allow drop-in visits are always preferable, but this may not be safe during the pandemic. Call ahead so you know the policy before trying to drop in.
Learn more about choosing a childcare program.
More on COVID-19 as it affects:
- Your toddler’s health
- Childcare or babysitters?
- Connecting with friends and relatives
- Traveling with your family
- Celebrating the holidays
- Your mental health and well-being
This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.
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