Hi Maureen,
This summer I have had the privilege of returning in June to my toddler class under the COVID -19 childcare guidelines here in Jersey. Although my class size was significantly reduced, I went in knowing that it would be difficult for this age group to social distance. I became creative with activities and placement of centers. For example, for circle time distanced the circle time rug several feet away from where I would sit. The first few days we repeatedly went over hygiene (wash your hands, cover your sneezes, etc) I don't think you will have a problem with the washing hands, my little guys love it now and want to wash their hands all the time LOL. Definitely, put away toys that cannot be easily cleaned and definitely organize a system for toys and items you will use and how you will quickly recover them from those little guys who still mouth toys. Hopefully, this helps you it surely helped me this summer during this time.
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Schkera Jenkins
Lead Toddler Teacher
Discovery Child Care Inc
Roselle NJ
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Original Message:
Sent: 08-22-2020 01:54 PM
From: Maureen Cummings
Subject: Toddler Separation Program during COVID
I am looking for advice about setting up a toddler classroom. The children will come for two hours twice a week. I have been a Toddler Teacher for five years in another school, which closed. My new school is challenging not only because of COVID protocols but because I won't be able to take the children outside - no fenced in areas. I have been trying to figure out social distancing for two year olds. I would be grateful for any insights about social distancing for two year olds during Choice Time. I am hesitant to insist that Two Year Olds sit at tables with toy bins. I am used to roaming toddlers during class time. In my old school, except for snack, we didn't require the children to sit at tables and they did more jumping around at Circle Time than sitting on the carpet.It seems that in my new school, the three year olds will be in cohorts and that only one cohort will have Circle Time a day. I know it is only two hours twice a week but I would love to provide a joyful, developmentally appropriate environment. Thank you for any advice.
Maureen Cummings
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Maureen Cummings
Stewart Manor NY
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