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.