school programs are being neglected, according to advocates. They believe it’s a blind spot that could increase the COVID-19 risk among elementary students, in particular.“Even if the kids in a before-and-after school program are all from one school, they’re still funnelling in from different cohorts,” said Martha Friendly, a long-time child care advocate and founder of the Childcare Resource and Research Unit.“It’s inescapable.” After-school care an extra worry for B.C.
parents amid COVID-19 Before-and-after school programs are vital for many parents working hours outside the school day. But, since not every family uses these services, some children may be gathering with different classmates before, during and after school.