Kindergartens in Bulgaria will open on May 22, announced Health Minister Kiril Ananiev and Minister of Education Krasimir Vulchev during the Council of Ministers briefing from today. According to the Ministers, the reopening will strictly follow all safety procedures for curbing the coronavirus spread.
“City mayors and local governments are closest to the issue and will have the final saying in what restriction measures to be put in place in order to preserve and protect the health and lives of the children,” said Minister Ananiev, adding:
“Children’s temperature will be regularly taken with mercury thermometers and medical checkups will not be required for admission. Parents will have to sign a declaration of consent to confirm that they are familiar and will strictly follow all precautionary measures in the kindergartens.”
Minister of Education Krasimir Vulchev advised children to stay at home whenever possible. According to him, private kindergartens are expected to open first by the end of the week followed by the opening of public kindergartens on July 1.
“According to a poll, 38% of all parents are willing to send their children to kindergartens and nurseries but 30% still have doubts. We are still far from overcoming the pandemic and should remain cautious. The safest place for now remains our home,” said Vulchev.
Kindergarten groups will consist of between 10 and 12 children and safe distance will be provided between the individual groups. According to Vulchev, children will spend most of the time outside as it is considered safer.
“It is impossible to impose social distance between the children. We will provide enough protective gear for all teachers, incl. masks and shields,“ added Vulchev.
