Face Coverings Still Required Indoors in Early Learning Settings

The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) is working to update policy and communications regarding how face covering mandates during child care activities will change as Pennsylvania’s Executive Order for COVID-19 mitigation are lifted.

The expectation continues to be that that if at all feasible, children age two and older and adults, including those who are fully vaccinated, wear masks while in any child care or other early learning settings while they are indoors. However, OCDEL has announced that children will not be required to wear a face covering during outside play.

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Individuals who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 currently can choose whether or not they want to wear a face covering unless they are required by a business or organization. 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.

Because the Pennsylvania’s Executive Order for COVID-19 mitigation are still in effect, the expectation continues to be that that if at all feasible, children age two and older and adults, including those who are fully vaccinated, wear masks while indoors at any child care or other early learning settings. Children no longer need to wear masks when they’re outside.

Although it is no longer a requirement for children to wear masks during outdoor play, 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.

Pennsylvania’s masking order will be lifted on June 28 or when 70 percent of adults are fully vaccinated, whichever comes first. OCDEL is working to update policy and communications regarding how face covering mandates during child care activities will change as the Executive Orders for mitigation of COVID-19 are lifted.

General operating details can be found in OCDEL’s guidance on operating a child care facility during the COVID-19 pandemic. When playing outside, the CDC has released the recommendation in the 2021 Summer Camp Guidelines for settings with both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

OCDEL also has developed a flyer to support staff and families' understanding about current indoor face covering requirements. The flyer can be printed and distributed to families or hung throughout facilities.