By CRISTINA JANNEY
Hays Post
The HaysMed staff was greeted Monday with cheerful signs recognizing their efforts to fight COVID-19.
The signs were created by children at the Hays Area Children's Center and placed on the HaysMed lawn Monday morning by HaysMed maintenance. Most of the children currently enrolled at the center are those of essential workers, some of whom work in the medical field.
"I appreciate the thoughtfulness of Hays Area Children's Center staff and students. It is always uplifting to see the support of our community and brightens what can be stressful days for our associates. Thank you, " Eddie Herrman, HaysMed CEO, said via email.
Kate Schippers, director, said each class picked a theme for their signs. Forty-eight signs were created in total — one by each child at the center.
The staff used the children's handprints in the infant classroom to create images of superheroes.
The toddlers also did handprints, which were transformed into flowers.
The school-age children incorporated a rainbow theme into their signs.
Some of the older children at the center have had questions about the COVID-19 outbreak, Schippers said. HACC staff members are using resources provided on the USD 489 Parent Support Facebook page to answer those questions, she said.
Schippers said the staff members have focus on basics and how the children and adults can keep themselves safe through hand washing and other means.
They have also encouraged parents to talk to the kids about the virus and the changes it has caused.
The center has stepped up daily cleaning. Only one parent is allowed at drop off. Children have to have their temperatures taken and must wash their hands at drop off. Further hand washing is encouraged throughout the day.
The child care center has competed other projects to keep spirits up.
They also made a TikTok video featuring children at the center. Each child chose and held up an inspirational word. They also made cards at Easter and another video of the children hopping prior to Easter weekend.