The video, originally uploaded to the city’s YouTube channel on Friday, shows a child sitting indoors watching other children play outdoors.
“Hey mom, can I go outside and play with my friends?”  asks the child in the video, to which the mother replies, “No honey, something’s still going on.”
Many were quick to criticize the video, with some calling it “manipulative” and claiming that the video implies that unvaccinated children should stay indoors and away from their friends. 
The city pulled the ad from its YouTube channel shortly after and posted a tweet saying it would “work to ensure greater clarity in the future.”

		The city removed a tweet and a video from earlier today.  We always try to ensure clear understanding, especially regarding vaccinations, and will work to ensure greater clarity in the future.
	— City of Toronto (@cityoftoronto) September 20, 2022
When reached for comment, City of Toronto spokesman Brad Ross told CTV News Toronto that the pandemic has negatively impacted children in a number of different situations.
“The video created was intended to highlight the impact it had on children and to inform parents and carers that vaccines for children are now available,” Ross said.
“This video missed the mark in this message and should not have been published.”
The city says the video is one of a five-part series aimed at parents and caregivers about children’s vaccines.  The series has now been discontinued, they said.
According to the city, each video cost $4,000 to produce — a total of $20,000 for the series.
“Any future videos of this nature will be subject to a more rigorous approval process to ensure clarity of message before being released,” Ross said. 


CHILDHOOD VACCINES IN ONTARIO 
In July, Ontario opened COVID-19 vaccination reservations for children aged six months to five years.  At this time, it was also announced that immunocompromised children aged 12 to 15 could receive their COVID-19 booster if it had been six months since their last dose.
“Vaccination remains the best defense against COVID-19 and I encourage parents with questions to contact their health care provider, Provincial Vaccine Contact Center or the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Service to make an informed choice for their family .”  Health Minister Sylvia Jones said in conjunction with the announcement,
Parents and caregivers with questions about children’s immunizations are encouraged to speak with their health care provider or call the District Immunization Contact Center at 1-833-943-3900.