Masking in Kindergarten

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As a result of an increase in the recent number of positive COVID19 cases impacting our Kindergarten cohorts, non-medical/cloth masks or face coverings will now be mandatory for all students in Kindergarten.

What you need to know:

• Beginning on Monday, January 3, all students Kindergarten to Grade 12, are required to wear a mask indoors at school, as well as on all school vehicles (ie. school bus).
• During outdoor breaks, if students are unable to maintain physical distance from others, it is advised that they keep their mask on. If this is not possible, then mask breaks can be taken outside while students are with members of their cohort.
• If students are able to bring masks from home, please ensure they have them every school day. We will have extra masks at each school in case a student needs a replacement mask.

We encourage all families to view this fact sheet as it contains helpful tips to support students in wearing masks/face coverings in schools.

If your Kindergarten child is not familiar with wearing a mask, here are a few helpful hints:

• Tip #1: Involve your child in choosing a fun pattern they like for their mask. When you involve your child in decision making they feel empowered.
• Tip #2: Normalize face masks through play. Children learn and process feelings through play. Make a mini mask for your child's favourite stuffy, doll or superhero. Your child can practice taking the doll's mask on and off as well as their own.
  
  
• Tip #3: Consider motivating kids to get used to wearing a mask by pairing it with something they enjoy, like reading stories with you or allowing video game time (within your limits) while wearing their mask. Gradually increase the time the child practices wearing the mask (giving breaks as needed).

Thank you for your anticipated support of this enhanced safety measure.

Sincerely,

Pino Tassone, Director of Education