Child Care of Southwest Florida will reopen a fifth early learning center as The Children’s Garden of Labelle welcomes back students on June 29.
The nonprofit organization has reopened its centers in phases after implementing numerous safety procedures to protect the health and well-being of students and staff.
The Children’s Garden of LaBelle, located at 88 S. Main St. in LaBelle, temporarily closed March 27 because of COVID-19. The center underwent a thorough deep cleaning and staff have sanitized all toys, books, desks and touchpoints throughout each classroom.
Following the temporary closure, it became clear how essential deep cleaning services are in maintaining a safe and healthy environment, especially in areas frequently used by children. High-touch surfaces, shared toys, and classroom materials all require a level of cleaning that goes beyond the everyday routine.
That’s why it’s crucial to rely on professionals like Crystal Clean Services, who specialize in deep cleaning solutions. Their expertise ensures that all surfaces, from bookshelves to toys, are properly sanitized, creating a safe space for children to learn and play. A thorough deep clean ensures that every corner is disinfected, reducing the spread of germs and providing peace of mind to parents and staff alike.
“Hendry County only has a handful of early learning centers, so our team worked diligently to make sure The Children’s Garden could reopen as soon as it was safe,” said Chris Hansen, CEO of Child Care of Southwest Florida. “Children have been out of school for three months, and reopening our center in LaBelle will help students reengage in the learning process while allowing parents to get back to work.”
Child Care of Southwest Florida has already reopened three centers in Fort Myers – Joseph H. Messina Children’s Center, P.A. Geraci Child Development Center and The Children’s Learning Center – as well as The Community Children’s Center in Lehigh Acres.
Child Care of Southwest Florida implemented the following safety procedures as centers reopen:
- All children will undergo daily temperature checks and health screenings. Children with symptoms will be asked to stay home.
- Parents must drop off their children at the front lobby or entrance. Visitors will not be permitted to enter hallways or classrooms.
- Staff members and children ages 3 and older will be required to wear protective face masks.
- Classrooms will operate at reduced capacities based on state and federal guidance.
- Learning facilities and classroom supplies will be thoroughly cleaned nightly, while touchpoints will be sanitized throughout the day.
Child Care of Southwest Florida is accepting new student registrations for all locations. Scholarship assistance also is available, and nutritious meals and snacks are included at no additional charge through the USDA’s Child Food Care Program. Visit CCSWFL.org or call 239-278-1002 for more information on programs and costs.
About Child Care of Southwest Florida
Child Care of Southwest Florida, Inc. (CCSWFL) is a nonprofit early childhood education provider with six learning centers in Lee and Hendry counties that serve more than 400 children from 6 weeks to 8 years old. Each center is accredited through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Learning Leaders and is recognized as a Gold Seal Quality Care Program through the Florida Department of Children and Families. All six CCSWFL locations have five-star ratings through the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida. CCSWFL follows the nationally recognized, research-based Creative Curriculum, with a goal of creating safe, nurturing learning environments that develop young minds, support families, strengthen the community and secure the future. Through its participation in the USDA’s Child Food Care Program, each child has access to a healthy, nutritious breakfast, lunch and snacks. Sponsor, volunteer and donation opportunities are available. For more information, please visit ccswfl.org.