What’s New?

What Child Care Needs to Reopen

Posted on May 26, 2020

Over the last few days, our state began to take initial steps to reopen – an important and positive process in our economic recovery. But New Jersey cannot reopen effectively without a clear and corresponding reopening plan for child care. Governor Murphy has recognized that child care is a crucial piece to our economic recovery and part of the backbone of a broader economy.

Last week, Advocates for Children of New Jersey and the New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children shared a statement with the Murphy administration, providing policy recommendations regarding what child care needs in order to reopen, based on feedback from early childhood providers. State officials have been receptive and we look forward to working with them in the days/weeks ahead on this urgent matter.

What child care needs to reopen:

  • Clear standards that recognize the changed landscape for child care.
  • Sufficient time for preparation and support to reopen.
  • Financial assistance to help with the cost of reopening.
  • Assistance in meeting the health and safety needs of their children.
  • Clear, coordinated communications.

COVID-19 School Closures: Addressing Educational Needs of Students with Disabilities

Posted on May 12, 2020

Federal and state education laws have not changed since the COVID-19 outbreak. Because they were not meant to be implemented during a pandemic, schools and parents are facing barriers in implementing IEPs and 504 plans with remote learning at home. More than ever students will need strong advocates to express concerns and collaborate with school staff.

Get helpful tips to ensure your student's needs are met.

WEBINAR: Addressing Child Abuse Amidst COVID-19, A Conversation with NJDCF and Prevent Child Abuse NJ

Posted on April 23, 2020

Please let us know your thoughts on this webinar by emailing advocates@acnj.org.

Advocates for Children of New Jersey hosted a ZOOM discussion with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families and Prevent Child Abuse NJ on child abuse and neglect in New Jersey, how COVID-19 has affected it, and how you can help prevent a tragedy by joining the #WeCan campaign.

Resources

Powerpoint Presentation by NJ Department of Children and Families

Powerpoint Presentation by Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey

Helpful Links:

NJ Department of Children and Families: https://www.nj.gov/dcf/

Local Central Intake Hubs Directory:
https://careerpartners.nj.gov/careerpartners/network/directory/home_visitation/central_intake_directory.shtml

Prevent Child Abuse Website: preventchildabusenj.org

Child Wellness Institute of NJ: https://childwellnessinstituteofnj.org/resources/

Prevention During COVID-19 Guide for Parents and Caregivers:
https://www.preventchildabusenj.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/PCA-NJ-Prevention-During-Covid-19-Guide-for-Parents-and-Caregivers.pdf

Wellness Wednesday YouTube Series:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7kwEl33z2I