As a result of a number interventions made over time, the Childcare and Protection Agency (CCPA) has been able to up its standards of day-care facilities across the country, which were previously below standard.
Early Childhood Development Executive Officer, Lavern Thorne
This was according to the Executive Officer of Early Childhood Development, Lavern Thorne during an interview with Guyana Times.
Some of the works that were done to those centres include rehabilitation to the buildings, proper play spaces and materials, trained and qualified staff, among others.
Thorne disclosed, “Before we hadn’t met minimum standards that would regulate these facilities but now we have minimum standards that facilities are required to meet and based on that, they go through a process where they have to be registered and licensed”.
She added that among the requirements needed for those facilities is Police clearance, a food handler’s certificate and even a medical to ensure certain diseases would not be transmitted to children who are more vulnerable.
Moreover, a number of assessments were also conducted by the Guyana Fire Service, the building and public health officers, as well as officers from the Unit who check to ensure the overall environment is child-friendly.
Because of the fact that a child’s mind develops massively during those early years, the Childhood Development officer pointed out that they also ensure books are present to help children develop their reading skills.
She pointed out that some 7000 babies are presently in 333 day cares, with about 800 caregivers.
Although most of those day cares are privately owned, Thorne noted how crucial it is for the CCPA to monitor these facilities.
Her statements come at a time where Guyana is observing Child Protection Week under the theme ‘Supporting families to prevent child abuse through education and community involvement’.
A number of activities are planned for the week which began on September 23 and will conclude today (Saturday) with a funday in the Botanical Gardens for all children. That event is expected to commence at 14:00h.
