Abstract
Background: This paper was a reflective study undertaken with a
play organisation in Alberta, Canada to explore how their out-of-school
programmes coped during COVID-19. Methods: The study involved
an online survey and interview with staff working in Alberta, Canada.
The data was analysed using Framework Analysis. Results: When
compared to similar studies undertaken, for example in the United
Kingdom (UK), similarities in relation to a reduction in children
attending, resources available and the play space was the result of
lockdown restrictions imposed in Canada. There was also a similar
increase in cleaning, social distancing measures (children in cohorts)
and administration. Differences between the UK studies and this
reflective account included no new policies had to be written and
children were able to mix in larger age groups within their cohorts
Conclusions: This study highlights how out-of-school childcare
in Canada was impacted by Covid-19 for Grade 1 to 6 children in Canada.