With winter upon us we are in the midst of cold and flu season. We want you to know that our staff follow rigorous procedures in keeping their programs and centres clean, in order to create healthy environments for everyone.  

Staff in PLASP’s programs and centres follow strict cleaning routines to minimize the spread of germs, in accordance with requirements by Peel Region and Toronto public health. PLASP staff receive training in sanitizing and keeping their centres or programs clean, and follow strict policies for maintaining hygiene.

Tables and eating areas in programs and centres are cleaned before every snack and meal, and all food preparation areas – including sinks - are sanitized before meals or snacks are prepared. Floors and carpets are swept and mopped daily and as needed. Refrigerators, freezers and pantries are cleaned monthly or as needed.

In centres, washrooms are cleaned, sanitized and disinfected daily, while diaper change areas and portable training seats are disinfected after each use. Water play areas and sandboxes are checked and cleaned daily. Toys in centres are disinfected and cleaned each week, and any toys that a child places in their mouth is either immediately disinfected or immediately set aside for this purpose. Linens and bedding are washed weekly or when soiled.

Staff also take the lead in directing children to adopt proper hand washing techniques – a practice that is repeated before every meal or snack time, after visiting the washroom, and after outdoor play. Employee policies also require PLASP staff to wash their hands before meal preparation.

Staff take every effort to prevent the spread of illnesses in our programs and centres. Parents are also asked to keep sick children at home for at least 24 hours after symptoms disappear, and are asked to pick up children who become ill at the program or centre. All families in PLASP’s centres are required to have up to date vaccinations for their children, and to submit supporting documentation.

With these procedures in place, we want you to know that your children are healthy and safe in all PLASP environments.