By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, July 2: Less than 100 per cent attendance at nurseries and kindergartens that have reopened is a ‘blessing in disguise’, opines Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
Although the government has allowed these places to reopen, it is understandable that many parents are skeptical or taking precautions about sending their children there due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Let us look at it positively. When there is no full attendance, it is a ‘blessing in disguise’ for these operators and teachers during this period. This is due to the fact that the new normal is something very new for everyone to adapt to.
“Operators and teachers must follow the government’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) and strict guidelines to ensure the safety of everyone. They need to learn how to manage the children and a new scenario. Therefore, not having 100 per cent attendance can be a good thing for everyone, including parents as well,” Fatimah said during her visit to Krista Taman Centurion 1, 2 and 3 here today.
She also explained that parents can monitor during this time and see for themselves that operators and teachers were following the SOPs and once they are convinced, eventually send their children back to these premises.
“We also want parents to have the confidence that these operators and teachers will do everything they can to ensure that SOPs are followed. As you can see here at Krista Taman Centurion 1, 2 and 3 today, the places are sanitised several times a day, (and) no group activities, no sharing of toys or learning materials (allowed).
“At the same time, we also hope that parents will comply with SOPs set when sending and fetching their children at the premises,” she said.
Fatimah also highlighted that kindergartens with a large number of children are allowed to conduct classes in two sessions such as morning and afternoon or arrange for the children to attend on alternate days to ensure social distancing is observed. — DayakDaily
