Updates on Face Coverings

All children two years and older, and staff must continue to wear face coverings to the extent possible during inside activities at child care while the Secretary of Health Order for Universal Face Coverings is in place.

As a reminder, the Universal Face Covering Order is set to expire on June 28, 2021, or when 70 percent of adults are fully vaccinated, whichever comes sooner. When playing outside, the CDC has released the recommendation in the 2021 Summer Camp Guidelines for settings with both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. In general, people do not need to wear masks when outdoors. However, particularly in areas of substantial to high transmission, people who are not fully vaccinated are encouraged to wear a mask in crowded outdoor settings or during activities that involve sustained close contact with other people who are not fully vaccinated.

Although it is no longer a requirement, some families may want their children to continue to wear a face covering during outdoor play. Programs are encouraged to consult with families to determine their wishes when making decisions about whether children wear masks outside.