Greetings YDEKC Members and Friends:
As we are looking towards the unofficial start of summer with Memorial Day weekend upon us, we are all anxiously trying to figure out what summer looks like for our own families and for the young people and families that we serve. While clear guidance on what will be safe and allowable for summer learning programs, day camps and more is still being considered, we believe that in-person programming will be very limited, continuing with guidelines similar to what is allowable for schools and child care at this point. We are encouraging programs to consider planning for no more than 10 in a room, 50 in a building (or a 1:10 or 2:8 ratio); to adapt to a virtual environment if feasible; or to consider a hybrid program with a combination of limited in-person contact paired with virtual supports. This is also a great time to be deepening partnerships you have or reaching out to complementary programs to build a new collaboration. What is feasible for each program will be variable, based on a range of criteria. Thanks to The Denver Afterschool Alliance for this editable checklist for summer considerations. What criteria are you using to decide about summer programs? We’d love to hear.
This week we are also focusing on gratitude. Read on to hear about our new SEL Scavenger Hunt on Instagram. I for one am grateful for our YDEKC Members, partners, funders, and communities that are working tirelessly to ensure that kids are fed, safe, supported, and engaged through this unprecedented time.
In service and gratitude,
Jessica, and the rest of the YDEKC team
Executive Director
Youth Development Executives of King County
ydekc.org | jwerner@ydekc.org | 206.336.6912 |