Hello, I’m Dr. Roberto Rodriguez.
The coronavirus pandemic has affected us all in many ways, but perhaps none is more significant
than you being unable to see your child in person.
We know that you love your child, and not being able to see them has been very hard for you
and for them.
Now that stay at home orders are relaxing, DFPS is exploring ways for you to visit with
your child in person again while taking every precaution to keep you and your child healthy.
One way to make sure everyone stays healthy
is to ask some questions that can tell us if extra precautions are needed.
That’s why your caseworker will call first and ask you a few screening questions when
scheduling the next visit.
Such as: "How you feel?"
"Have you been sick or around anyone else who’s been sick?"
"Have you had a fever?"
"Have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19?"
It’s important that you answer honestly.
If you’ve been sick or around someone with COVID-19, you will still get to visit your child.
You just may need to have your visit virtually and wait a few more days to see your child
in person or take other precautions.
We know you’re anxious to see your child, but we must all be careful so that we don’t
put you, your child, or anyone else at risk.
When you do visit with your child in person, I ask that you do a few things to
help keep you and your child healthy.
First, wash your hands with soap before the visit.
If you can’t wash your hands, use hand sanitizer.
If you don’t have any, ask your caseworker. They may have some you can use.
If you have young children, use this time to wash their hands as well.
Also, while it may seem awkward, we are all encouraged to keep our mouths and noses covered
to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
There are exceptions, especially for children under age two, or those with breathing problems,
or who can’t remove the mask unassisted.
But almost everyone else should wear a face mask.
If you don’t have one, your caseworkers should be able to provide one.
You can also expect things to look a bit different at the visitation rooms at DFPS offices.
We’re taking care to provide a clean space for your visits, and chairs and seating will
be spaced out to maintain social distancing.
All this to help keep you and your family safe.
You should talk with your child before your visit about how different things may be.
Also, be prepared for the mixed emotions that you and your child may feel when you see each
other in person again.
Depending on age, your child may be more emotional than usual - or in some cases, even more detached.
You may have some unexpected feelings as well.
All of this is ok.
Just be patient and try your best to talk it through with your child.
This is a new experience for everyone.
Lastly, if you don’t feel comfortable with in person visits, please let us know.
You can always continue to have virtual visits.
We understand that the risk of catching this virus can be scary, and that you may live with
elderly parents or grandparents who you need to protect.
We will respect your choice, support you in this decision, and will help your child understand
you are making the choice you are because you are protecting them.
I am incredibly sorry that you have had to experience such a long physical separation,
and I know that virtual visits can never replace seeing your child in person.
But I’m hopeful that with precautions, you will soon be able to visit with your child
again in person.
Thank you, and if you have any questions about the visits,
please don’t hesitate to ask your caseworker.