Are you an early childhood educator separated from your class due to COVID-19 closures? The experts at the URI Child Development Centers have put together a tip sheet on how to stay in touch with children and families.

Quick tips for continued engagement with children and families:

• Create a family communication and engagement plan specific to this stretch of time. Determine which types of communication will be used, how often, and who is responsible.
• Build and sharpen your digital communication skills. Take online training and practice with peers.
• Check in with each family individually. This can be a phone call, email, video chat, etc.
• Create video content to share. Read a book, sing a song or lead a group time. Share tips for parents.
• Offer a platform for children to share with each other. Consider using google meets, etc.
• Provide parent support. Host Q&A sessions. Share educational resources and community supports.
• Share activity ideas aligned with early learning standards. Suggestions can utilize household materials and routines.