York Region is providing a three-month grace period for children turning 12 under its mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirement to participate in indoor recreation.
The region is modifying its letter of instruction that requires children 12 and older to provide proof of vaccination to access indoor sports and recreation. Those who turn 12 in 2022 will have three months from their birthday to get vaccinated, allowing them to access indoor facilities in the meantime.
The change goes into effect Jan. 1.
“Organized sport and physical activity are important to our physical, mental and social well-being,” the region said in a news release. “This change ensures indoor sports activity can continue for those turning 12 years old while they receive their two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.”
The original letter went into effect Oct. 1 and did not make any exemption for kids who just turned 12. It also went beyond provincial rules that exempt youth participating in indoor sports from proof of vaccination requirements.
But the Ontario Minor Hockey Association and some other sports leagues required vaccination regardless. The Town of Newmarket introduced a similar policy for its facilities ahead of York Region Public Health.
Once children reach 12 weeks after their 12th birthday, they will have to provide proof of vaccination.
“Residents are reminded that facility owners and operators are required to request proof of vaccination as part of the provincial vaccine certificate program; please demonstrate kindness and cooperation when asked for proof of vaccination,” the region said.
York Region is preparing to roll out vaccines for children aged five to 11 sometime in the coming weeks. The province has not yet released any changes to requirements that might come with that.
Vaccinations are available by walk-in or by appointment through york.ca/COVID19Vaccine.
