To support resumption of in-person family time, DCYF consulted with the Department of Health to create health guidance and protocols to minimize the risk of virus transmission during a visit. The protocols include screening questions for parents and caregivers; safety protocols that must be observed during a visit, including hand washing, mask wearing (for those over the age of 2) and social distancing; and cleaning guidelines for transportation and visit locations. To ensure all parties understand the requirements that apply to them, DCYF developed separate guidance documents for everyone involved in providing and participating in visits.
Family Time In-Person Visits Guidance Protocol Provider
Family Time In-Person Visits Guidance DCYF Staff
Family Time In-Person Visits Guidance Parents
Family Time In-Person Visits Guidance Foster Parent and Kinship caregivers
Recognizing that some places where families used to visit are closed under the Safe Start Washington Plan, DCYF and visitation providers have developed a list of currently available locations in every region of the state, PROVIDER RESOURCE LIST 08032020. The locations include outdoor spaces, such as parks and sports fields, as well as libraries, community centers and other indoor public places. DCYF is also arranging for visits to occur at their field offices.
For more considerations and resources for safely conducting in-person Family Time visits during the pandemic, the following are available on the CITA website:
- Dependency Practice Tip: In-Person Family Time During the COVID-19 Pandemic, August 2020
- Virtual and In-Person Family Time – Lessons from COVID-19 – a CITA webinar series
