Question reference: S5W-35124
- Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 11 February 2021
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Current status: Answered by Maree Todd on 25 February 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what plans it has to allow baby and toddler groups to resume, in light of the evidence it has and decision it made regarding the reopening of early years settings and schools for P1 to P3 pupils on 22 February 2021.
Answer
The evidence for schools and ELC opening up, largely focussed on transmission rates in children and adults in those environments, and appropriate mitigations to reduce risk. Parent and baby groups continue to be permitted to take place outdoors, in line with the current guidance on organised activities for children. They have a higher ratio of adults to children as part of these group activities. As such they are not likely to take place indoors until further data and evidence of the impact of transmission of the new variant in these settings is better understood.
Scottish Government recognises the importance of socialising, play and exercise for children and guidance will be kept under review and updated as necessary taking account of any further scientific or clinical advice.