Along with safe and healthy COVID vaccines, the relaxing of some restrictions, and the reopening of schools and work and play spaces, there’s more good news: The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has updated its COVID-19 guidance for Early Childhood Education programs to include toothbrushing. That means childcare facilities can safely resume toothbrushing in classrooms. Of course, masking up and frequent hand-washing and sanitizing are still a must. As of August 4, 2021, the Office of Head Start has lifted its toothbrushing suspension in child care programs.
Here are some highlights from the new guidance for group toothbrushing:
- Because it’s possible for (unvaccinated) children to spread COVID to others through salivary droplets during brushing, it’s recommended program staff who help children brush get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and consider wearing a mask.
- Stagger the use of bathrooms or other spaces used for toothbrushing. Allow one group to complete brushing, clean and disinfect the area, and then invite the next group to brush. Follow the guidance for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.
- All children and staff should wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after brushing.
To see the full guidance, which now includes Head Start Child Care Programs, click and scroll down to Section 2, Toothbrushing.
Remember, CDC guidance is helpful, but it should not replace federal, state, local, territorial, or tribal health and safety laws, rules, and regulations.
Need a refresher on NC Toothbrushing Guidelines, including cleaning and sanitizing recommendations? Click to see the colorful posters for both infants/toddlers and preschoolers, in English and Spanish!
