Weaving Sustainability into Education: Tessa International School Earns EFE3D Level 1 Certification

June 11, 2024/in Uncategorized /by Tessa School

We are thrilled to announce that our school has achieved the EFE3D (Établissement Français à l’Étranger en Démarche de Développement Durable) Level 1 certification! This distinction recognizes our ongoing commitment to integrating sustainable development goals and practices into our educational approach.

Here’s a glimpse into how we have embraced sustainable development and the initiatives that earned us this certification.

Cultivating a Culture of Sustainability:

At Tessa, sustainability is a community effort. We have a dedicated Green Committee that initiates impactful projects such as our comprehensive recycling and composting programs. Right in the middle of our school, there’s a tower garden where students can learn about plants, animals, and how to garden without hurting the environment. Hands-on experiences complement classroom learning, where subjects like dental hygiene and healthy eating are addressed through engaging activities.

Our School Tower Garden

Students Earth Artwork. “Little hands can change the world”!

Weaving Green Initiatives into the Curriculum

Sustainability is not just an afterthought at Tessa. We actively integrate green initiatives across the curriculum, fostering environmental awareness from a young age. Here are some examples from this year:

Primary Students and the Water Cycle: Students learned about the water cycle, understanding the importance of water conservation and responsible waste disposal.
Preschool Waste Collection and Upcycling: PK classes participated in clean-up initiatives on the school plaza, instilling a sense of responsibility for their environment. Additionally, some classrooms learned how to reuse materials, transforming them into valuable resources or creative art projects.
Nursery Birdhouse Creation: Even our youngest learners get involved! Nursery classes designed and built birdhouses, promoting an appreciation for wildlife and habitat creation.

This is just a glimpse of how we integrate sustainability into our curriculum. We are constantly developing new and innovative ways to engage students in environmental stewardship.

Water Cycle Primary Science Class

Pre-K4 Students Reusing Scrap Paper

Fostering Well-Rounded Global Citizens

At Tessa, we believe that sustainability goes beyond environmental responsibility. We cultivate well-rounded global citizens who embody the values and attributes of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile.

Promoting Civic Responsibility: Citizenship education emphasizes respect, cooperation, and cultural awareness, encouraging students to actively engage in community projects. Additionally, we cultivate an eco-conscious mindset through environmental education initiatives. These practices nurture the IB Learner Profile traits of open-mindedness, care, and being knowledgeable, encouraging students to understand diverse perspectives, act with compassion, and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.
Encouraging Energy Conservation: Students are educated on the importance of energy conservation, promoting habits like turning off lights when not in use. This fosters thinkers who can analyze information and make responsible choices for the environment. It also cultivates informed citizens who understand the consequences of their actions.

Empowering Student Sustainability Leaders:

We believe in empowering our students to be responsible citizens. Our student council, in collaboration with the NGO “Pass the Bricks,” recently organized a Lego collection drive, promoting plastic waste reduction and global recycling efforts. Additionally, the annual food drive, led by our parent organization, fosters a spirit of community and social responsibility.

Student Council Lego Drive

Building Partnerships for a Sustainable Future:

Recognizing the importance of ongoing education and collaboration, Tessa actively seeks partnerships with local organizations. Working with the Community Compost Company and the North Hudson Sewerage Authority has provided valuable learning experiences for students and staff, demonstrating practical applications of sustainable practices.

Looking Ahead: Deepening Our Commitment

The EFE3D Level 1 certification is just the first step on our sustainability journey. As our school grows, we plan to expand our initiatives. This can include introducing student eco-delegates who will champion sustainability efforts within the higher grades. We’re also committed to deepening our engagement with the local community, leveraging partnerships to further our environmental and social goals.

Together, we are not only educating the future leaders of tomorrow, but also instilling in them the values and practices necessary for a sustainable world!

Beyond the Classroom: Tessa International School’s Advisory Board Shaping Educational Success

November 15, 2023/in Uncategorized /by Tessa School

At Tessa International School, our commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom, and a crucial pillar supporting this commitment is our esteemed Advisory Board. Comprising dedicated individuals who generously volunteer their time, the board plays a pivotal role in upholding the school’s mission, and strategically steering Tessa towards a future of continued success.

Mission:

The heartbeat of the Advisory Board is its commitment to safeguarding Tessa International School’s mission. This dedicated group of individuals actively engages in formal strategic planning, oversees day-to-day operations, and serves as stewards of the school’s invaluable resources, ensuring the school’s financial health and sustainability.

Working collaboratively with the Head of School and Founder, the board focuses on long-range and strategic issues, embodying the highest ethical standards and principles of fiscal integrity. This commitment requires a significant investment in time, dedication to the school’s welfare, and a readiness to navigate challenges.

Organization:

Meeting three times a year, the Advisory Board is a lean yet impactful group, comprising a minimum of six members. The Head of School and Founder foster collaboration between the board and the school’s leadership.

Meet Our Board Members:

Tessa International School’s Advisory Board is comprised of distinguished figures from the highest echelons of the New York City and national education sphere, bringing a wealth of expertise and insight to guide the school’s strategic vision and uphold its commitment to excellence.

Jan Abernathy – Chief Communications Officer at The Browning School

Jan brings extensive experience in communications and DEI counsel for educational institutions. Her leadership in various independent school conferences and organizations reflects a commitment to fostering representation and professional growth.

Amada Torres – Vice President of Studies, Insights, and Research at NAIS

Amada’s role as Vice President at NAIS highlights her expertise in national studies, financial sustainability, admissions, and marketing. Her international experience adds a valuable perspective to the board’s discussions.

Kate Turley – Educator and Educational Administrator

With four decades of experience in education, Kate’s leadership in progressive education and her roles in multiple New York City independent schools bring a wealth of knowledge to the board. Her commitment to various trustee positions underscores her dedication to educational excellence.

Robin E. Harvey – Clinical Associate Professor of TESOL, Bilingual and World Language Education

Dr. Harvey’s expertise in language education, teacher training, and her involvement in various educational organizations make her a valuable asset to the board. Her commitment to bilingual and immersion settings aligns with Tessa’s diverse and inclusive mission.

Pascale Richard – Conseillère des Français de l’étranger

A distinguished career in journalism, cultural events at the Lycee Francais de New York, and expatriate services positions Pascale as a well-rounded member. Her role as Conseillère des Français de l’étranger demonstrates her commitment to serving the global French community.

Brenda E. Levis – Founder of NYC Navigator

Brenda’s entrepreneurial spirit and extensive experience in global relocation services bring a unique perspective to the board. Her understanding of the challenges of international moves enriches discussions on the evolving landscape of education.

Tessa International School is privileged to have an Advisory Board comprising individuals with diverse expertise, united by a common goal—nurturing excellence in education. Their selfless dedication, strategic vision, and commitment to Tessa’s mission ensure that our school continues to thrive and provide an exceptional learning environment for all our students. We extend our deepest gratitude to each trustee for their invaluable contributions and look forward to a future of continued success under their guidance.

Where to Watch the Rugby World Cup Games: Tessa International School’s Guide

September 1, 2023/in Uncategorized /by Tessa School

The Rugby World Cup in France is around the corner, and Tessa International School is excited to help you find the best spots to catch all the action. Our Rugby Association has put together a handy guide that lists top locations around Hoboken for watching the games, connecting the sport’s global appeal with our school’s commitment to world cultures.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the sport, our guide has something for everyone. We believe that rugby brings people together from different corners of the world, fostering cultural understanding and unity. That’s why at Tessa International School, we want to highlight this sport – it’s not just about the game, but also about celebrating the diverse tapestry of world cultures!

We’ve searched far and wide to find the most exciting places to enjoy the matches live. Get ready to experience the thrill of the World Cup with fellow enthusiasts from your community, as we celebrate the unique blend of sports and cultural exchange.

Teams, Schedules and More

Find all the dates, teams and more on the official rugby world cup website.

Bars

Mulligan’s (159 1st St, Hoboken, NJ 07030)

Pig’N Whistle, (202 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018)

Stout Penn Station (133 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001)

5th&mad, (7 E 36th St, New York, NY 10016)

Finnegan’s pub (734 Willow Ave, Hoboken, NJ 07030)

Grace O’Malleys (140 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302)

Hudson Hound (8 Erie St A, Jersey City, NJ 07302)

Watch Parties

le Club des Bleus, French Morning

Friday, September 8, 3pm ET: France – New Zealand

Thursday, September 14, 3pm ET: France – Uruguay

Thursday, September 21, 3pm ET: France – Namibia

Friday, October 6, 3pm ET: France – Italy

Rugby New York

Saturday 9/9

– Australia vs. Georgia (12:00 PM)

– England vs. Argentina (3:00 PM)

Saturday 9/23

– England vs. Chile (11:45 AM)

– Ireland vs. South Africa (3:00 PM)

Saturday 10/7

– England vs. Samoa (11:45 AM)

– Ireland vs. Scotland (3:00 PM)

What is your pronostic?

We are excited to announce that the Rugby Association has launched a thrilling bracket challenge for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, which kicks off next Friday. This engaging competition invites all families to participate and test their rugby knowledge as they predict the outcomes of the matches! It’s an excellent opportunity for our school community to come together and enjoy the excitement of the tournament. We will be sharing the results and leaderboards each week, adding an extra layer of anticipation and camaraderie to this exciting event. Get ready to join in on the fun and showcase your rugby expertise!

A Very Tessa March

March 31, 2023/in Uncategorized /by Tessa School

With March comes the beginning of Spring, and with the beginning of Spring, new projects. Here is what we have been up to recently.

Women History Month

In the Classrooms

On Women History Month, our Spanish Primary students worked on writing (and presenting) biographies from women who have made important contributions. The children were grouped by two, and write findings down in Spanish. This activity teaches them research and presentation skills, new vocabulary and a new literary genre: biographies.

Our Founder at NYCNavigator’s International Women’s Luncheon

Our Founder, Isabelle Bonneau, was invited by NYC Navigator to their International Women’s Luncheon, in honor of International Women’s Day. She presented her story as a woman entrepreneur and recounted how she founded Tessa.

Isabelle began her studies in Business Administration and worked internationally for 8 years, before moving to the United States. In 2007, she started Be Lingual, a premier language program for schools and language immersion summer camp. In 2017, after years of research and hard work, she opened Tessa with 14 children. She had the strong desire to bring to our community a multilingual school with high academic and socio-emotional standards, the likes of the best independent schools in New York City. 5 years later, we are very proud to be part of that vision brought to life, and to participate in the continuing growth of our beautiful school.
We congratulate Isabelle and her many accomplishments.

jjj

One of Our Parents Invited to the White House!

Tessa French Kindergarten parent and PTO member Amy Boldosser-Boesch was invited by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to celebrate International Women’s Day at the White House.

Amy attended the International Women of Courage Award ceremony, which honors champions of gender equality and social justice from around the world. Amy shared these remarks from the First Lady who gave a special message to girls during the celebration: “And to every girl who has ever wondered: Can I—one person, one voice, one girl—fix what’s broken? Let the women that we celebrate today be an answer to that question: An unequivocal yes.
When you learn and explore, when you raise your voice, when you move through the world with your shoulders back and your head held high, step by step, you shift the ground beneath you. Draw strength from the Women of Courage who came before, share that strength with the sisterhood that surrounds you, and the ripples of that power will transform our world.”

Francophonie Month

March is Francophonie Month, celebrating the French language and diverse Francophone cultures through cultural activities held worldwide.

March 20 has been observed worldwide as International Francophonie Day since 1988. The date commemorates the establishment of the Agence de Coopération Culturelle et Technique, the precursor to the International Organization of La Francophonie, the organization representing countries and regions where French is the first or customary language. Today, with 300 million speakers worldwide, French is the fifth most spoken language in the world; La Francophonie has 88 member states and governments.

Here is an overview of our French Program at Tessa:

St Patrick’s Day

This celebration has been a source of learning opportunities at Tessa. Among others, our PK3s and PK4s Spanish met for buddy days and worked together on a themed craft: they practiced folding paper, cutting and gluing to make an accordion leprechaun. Our Primary students celebrated the end of their unit by presenting a project they have been working on these past few days: a leprechaun trap! They have been studying structures, and are now able to build their own. We are very impressed with the results!

New Friends in the Classroom

This month we welcomed new friends at Tessa! Eggs and caterpillars that turned into little chicks and beautiful butterflies. While the eggs were incubating, PK3 students were be able to observe them and watched the caterpillars create their cocoon. They learned about the cycle of life. These kinds of hands-on-learning activities are the perfect way to keep children excited and have them remember lessons for life.

Recycling & Reusing

Our PreK4s made paper from scratch! They decided to recycle their paper scraps into brand new paper sheets. This fun activity teaches them how to reuse waste, and how to get creative with it. As part of their unit on How the World Works, and around the central idea “Materials behave and interact in certain ways, which determine how people use them”, students will explore how to transform matter and reuse it.

We hope you liked this glimpse of the life at Tessa. And there is so much more happening! If you would like to know our school better, we invite you to come visit us!

Navigating School Safety During COVID-19

February 19, 2021/in Classroom Management, Tessa News, Uncategorized /by Jamie Kreps

As we move closer to our 7^th month of school during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are settled in (as much as can be expected) to a new set of health and safety protocols that were introduced at the start of the school year. Now, with vaccinations beginning to roll out, our school communities have begun wondering how these safety protocols may be changing or what they can do to continue keeping families safe as we continue to navigate through this pandemic. As a refresher, let’s take a look at some of the best ways to maintain student and school safety during COVID-19.

COVID-19 School Safety

By now, we’ve all become accustomed to the school safety requirements that have come about over the course of the past year. We have become pros at hand-washing, mask wearing, coughing in our elbows, social distancing, and vigilantly keeping an eye on our health symptoms. We know to keep ourselves, and our family members, home from work or school if we show any signs of possible infection such as:

Fever
Loss of taste or smell
Coughing and/or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Body Aches
Sore throat

Following the recommended safety guidelines and knowing the symptoms to watch for are the best ways to arm ourselves and our families against infection. But now that we are seeing vaccinations being rolled out, have the guidelines changed? Should we be practicing different safety protocols now?

Maintaining Safe Health Protocols

While we may be tempted to begin loosening our safety protocols as vaccinations become more dispersed, it’s important to understand we need to continue our same level of precautionary measures until they have been updated by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and any additional local/school guidelines. In short, keep doing what you’ve been doing for the past several months in order to help us navigate through the pandemic.

Here at Tessa International, this means our staff and students/families will continue to follow our rigorous guidelines to keep everyone safe. This means, we will continue to:

Utilize staggered drop offs, pickups, and recess times for students
Limit building access to staff and students whenever possible
Daily temperature checks
Proper hand-washing and sanitizing at regular intervals and as needed
Mask wearing required for kindergarten and up, strongly encouraged for nursery and pre-k
Keep using indoor shoes or slippers
Toy and play items regularly disinfected as needed throughout the day
Daily professional deep cleaning of all areas
Use designated play areas only – non-Tessa-owned play equipment will not be used

Student Safety through the End of the Pandemic

We are extremely proud of our students, staff, and community members who have all pulled together to help navigate this health pandemic. Everyone has done a wonderful job putting health and safety first and limiting the risks of being exposed to COVID-19. We will continue to update you as we progress through the year and new developments come about. Keep up the good work, Tessa families!

5 Tips to Help Kids Stay Safe During Their Return to the Classroom

August 15, 2020/in Teaching and Learning, Uncategorized /by Jamie Kreps

By now, you’ve likely done your due diligence researching the health and safety guidelines for our children’s return to the classroom. You know how and when to handle modified drop offs and pickups. You know to monitor your child’s health and keep up with doctor visits and immunizations. The list of new safety guidelines may seem endless, but they are necessary. So how do we go about easing the stress they may put on children as they return to the classroom?

How to Ease the Return to the Classroom

Though it may seem like a lot to take in, there are a few things parents can do to help prepare their children for the first day of post-pandemic school. By helping children understand what to expect, it will normalize the new routines and simplify the entire process. Here are 5 tips to help ease the transition safely:

1 – Remain Positive

Children pick up on our emotions and feelings, even if we don’t express them verbally in front of them. The best way to help children remain positive about the new practices they’ll be facing, is by remaining positive ourselves. Be aware of what we are saying (both verbally and non-verbally) and try to focus on the positives.

2 – Practice Hygiene Routines at Home

This is something you’ve likely been doing already but stressing the importance of proper hygiene at home will help children continue to do so at school. Get them in the habit of washing their hands at least once an hour as well as utilizing hand sanitizer and being mindful of keeping their hands away from their faces.

3 – Make a Practice Run to School

It’s one thing to explain a new school drop off or pickup routine to your children, but it’s quite another to experience it. Children often learn best by actively participating in something versus simply being told, so it can be greatly beneficial to try a practice run to school before the first day. This can help them better visualize what to expect when they arrive on the first day.

4 – Keep Open Communication About What’s to Come

Another crucial element to easing the transition back to school is to keep an open line of communication with children as well as school administration. Knowing what the specific guidelines and protocol will be and effectively helping our children understand them through open communication is key to normalizing the new routines.

5 – Get in the Routine Ahead of Time

Lastly, as with every school year in the past, transitioning back to school routines can be tough if kids are not prepared. This year should be treated no different on that aspect. Help children be ready on the first day of school by getting them in the habit of school day routines well in advance. Help them by regulating bedtimes, morning processes, and having schedules in place.

Despite the uncertainties that may be felt about the reopening of schools, we can help our children be safe and prepared by our actions and our communication efforts. Be the example and prepare them for a healthy return to the classroom!

Preparing for the Return to School in the Wake of COVID-19

August 1, 2020/in Teaching and Learning, Uncategorized /by Jamie Kreps

While area schools set COVID-19 safety plans into effect for the official return to the classroom in the next few weeks, many parents are wondering what safeguards they should be putting into place as well. Since keeping our children, staff, and family members healthy during this unprecedented pandemic is the highest priority of our community, we certainly want to make sure we are all doing our part to ensure the safety of everyone upon our return to school.

Preparing Your Family for the Return to School

With the beginning of the new school year upon us, families have been filled with questions regarding how education administrators are planning to keep them safe in the wake of COVID-19. After several months of being away from the traditional classrooms, the return seems to carry a degree of uncertainty among families as we all work to safeguard our community from the spread of illness.

The best way to ensure the health and well-being of students and staff this school year is by staying informed of all guidelines and protocol as well as preparing ourselves for the new norms. School functions may look a bit different this year, but it doesn’t mean it needs to be scary or uncertain for our communities. There are several things families can do to help wane any animosity and keep the return to the classroom an exciting time for everyone.

Understanding State and Local Guidelines

The first step in preparing for the new school year is to familiarize yourself and your family members with the local and state regulations regarding safety in school settings. By knowing the legal health and safety requirements placed on all New Jersey childcare facilities and schools by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), we can begin to understand the extensive precautions being taken to ensure the safety of staff and students.

At the state level, schools are required to abide by strict COVID-19 safety protocols in order to remain open for in-person teachings this fall. These health measures include things like:

Daily body temperature monitoring of all who enter the facility
Classroom sizes are limited to no more than 10 students
Face masks are required for all staff members
Extensive sanitization and disinfectant cleaning routines by staff and students
Completion of proper daily licensing log for the DCF to retain program eligibility

Preparing for School Safety Regulations

Once you have familiarized your family with the DCF requirements for a safe return to the classroom, the next step is to understand any additional protocol implemented by the school administration. Since many schools are opting to include more extensive health and safety regulations, it’s important to know what to expect before the first day of class.

At Tessa International, we have carefully considered the most efficient ways to ensure the safety of our students and staff and are already utilizing our On-Site Safety Measure Considerations that have been put into place for all summer programs as well as the upcoming 2020-2021 school year. Among the new protocols, families should prepare for the return with the following requirements:

Staff are required to test for COVID-19 prior to the start of the school year. Students are urged (but not required) to do the same.
Ensure all children are current with their physical health screenings and immunizations.
Have all emergency medical and personal forms filled out in detail, including contact information in the event of sudden illness.
Help children prepare for daily body temperature checks and health screenings by getting them used to this at home.
Normalize frequent handwashing and the use of hand sanitizer at home – this will be a frequent occurrence during the school year.

Your 2020 School Supply Shopping List Additions

With the introduction of new health and safety procedures this year, it goes without saying there will be additional school supplies in order to perpetuate these sanitization efforts. In addition to the usual school supply items, families may be asked to provide items such as:

Hand sanitizer
Surface disinfecting products
Gloves
Facemasks

Many schools may need help keeping up with essential sanitization and safety items, so it is possible you will see these items added to their list. As always, however, it’s best to check with school officials for a complete list of necessary supplies prior to the start of class to ensure your child is safely prepared for the first day.

Helping Kids Learn to Practice Healthy Germ Fighting Habits

One of the best ways families can prepare for the new year is by devoting time to helping children better understand what the changes will be and what is expected of them. By helping to normalize routines like frequent hand washing, using sanitizers, regular surface sanitizing regimens, and keeping safe distances from others, parents can help lessen any animosity they may face on the first day of class.

If you’re looking for ways to help your child ease into the new regulations, here are a few tips for parents to try:

Practice hourly handwashing at home – more frequently as needed.
Allow children to use child-safe cleaning and sanitization products on home surfaces after using them.
Have children wear masks at home to enable them to get used to having them on during school.

Community Safety Commitment to School

While the current public health state has caused a great deal of change for our global communities, it has also shone light on our abilities to band together – even at a distance – and persevere. Our commitment to not only the health of our own families, but those of our friends, neighbors, and fellow community members, is what will help us not just pull through this pandemic but come out with a greater understanding and respect for all. Welcome back!

Preparing for School During the Pandemic: How to Plan Ahead

July 25, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Jamie Kreps

With so many uncertainties about the upcoming school year, many families are full of questions and wondering what’s in store for their children this fall. While government officials and school administrations work to hash out exactly what the next school year is going to look like in the wake of COVID-19, rest assured, there are ways parents can begin preparing for school during the pandemic.

Preparing for School During the Pandemic

As we begin to open up dialogues with our children regarding their return to the classroom this fall after an extended distance learning session and summer break, many parents will likely be faced with a montage of questions. Trying to outline just what this next school year will bring is a tricky subject since there are still so many unknowns, but one of the most important aspects is to remain flexible and understanding of change.

Our upcoming school year will most certainly not look like any previous years and that can cause a bit of confusion and anxiety for children. As parents, the best way to prepare our children for these changes is by making them aware of them in advance and by practicing what this may look like at home in order to help them get used to certain health and safety requirements that will surely be part of their new routine.

Tips to Keep Kids Safe Upon Their Return to School

Upon their return to school, kids will be faced with many new policies and routines that will likely take some getting used to. To help ease this transition, there are a few things parents can do to help keep their children safe as well as prepare them for the changes ahead:

Practice frequent hand washing. Your child should be aware of the importance for frequent hand washing as well as practice making a conscious effort not to touch communal items unless absolutely necessary.
Prepare them for the 6 feet rule. Most classrooms will be practicing the 6 feet rule, meaning desks will likely be spaced further apart than they may be used to. Let children know not to attempt to move closer and the reasons for the distance.
Participate in cleaning and disinfecting stations. Make your children aware of the importance of keeping items clean and sanitized and prepare them to help their school administrators with these tasks if asked to do so.
Get them used to PPE. Most of us are more than familiar with using personal protection equipment (PPE) by now, but since it will likely be a requirement for children this fall, it’s a good idea to get children used to the practice as well, if not already.

Preparing for School Changes

Knowing to expect a great deal of changes this school year is half the battle with preparing children for the break from the norm. Be sure to keep your children in the loop of the new changes as things develop closer to the first day of school – this way they have time to adjust without being thrown into an unfamiliar school situation from day one.

Covid-19 Summer Safety: Healthy Family Tips for Warm Weather Activities

July 13, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Jamie Kreps

As we navigate our way through the warmer months in the midst of Covid-19, many families are wondering how to keep safe while still getting out to try and enjoy the season. Some local organizations are beginning to open their doors again and residents are seeing activity opportunities pop up once again – but are they safe? Navigating Covid-19 summer safety can bring with it a slew of questions, so knowing how to safely participate in some of your favorite warmer month family activities is the best way to ease your concerns in the wake of the pandemic.

Understanding the Basics of Covid-19 Summer Safety

You may notice some of your family’s favorite local businesses and locations starting to resume activities and programs for children in your area. Many local fun spots are trying to find innovative ways to continue to supply our communities with our favorite activities while remaining vigilant about public health and safety. With so many things beginning to open up, it raises the question, how do we know what is safe and what to avoid? How do we keep our families safe but still allow for some play time outside of the home?

As a general rule, your first step for keeping your family safe as things open up is to check all local guidelines and regulations. Look to see what the CDC and public health officials recommend for public interactions to ensure you’re approaching each situation appropriately. From there, it’s also good to speak with personnel in charge of the area you’re looking to visit so you understand any additional regulations and guidelines they are implementing. Knowing these two things will help you to understand the risks a bit better as well as know how to come prepared to each activity.

Safely Navigating Summer Activities

If you’ve been looking forward to a little sunshine therapy at your local recreational pool or beach, or your little ones have been looking forward to visiting their favorite parks or attending their annual summer camp, you’re not alone. Summer months are filled with camps, parks, and water fun for area families – but are they safe to attend in the midst of the pandemic?

No matter what type of activity you’re looking to participate in, there are some basic guidelines to keep in mind beforehand:

Check site specific protocol. In addition to CDC guidelines and those of your local government, individual locations often have additional safety checks in place. Find out what their distancing regulations are in terms of space capacity, parking lot rules, and what the personal protection equipment requirements may be. You’ll also want to be sure it is noted that all public spaces (restrooms, lobbies, play areas, etc.) are frequently cleaned and disinfected for your safety as well.
Be prepared for your family protection. While you likely know to bring things like your masks and sanitizers, it’s also a good idea to pack extras. Outdoor activities make it easy to misplace items needed for safety, so having extras on hand can help ensure you stay protected even if the wind takes off with one of your masks.
Plan ahead. Depending upon which activity you’re looking to try, there are ways to help minimize the risk of exposure and limit the possibility of contact with others. Knowing the busiest times of day for your particular location will help you to plan a visit during off-peak hours, meaning you are able to limit the chances of exposure a bit more.

Best Way to Approach Summer Activity Cancellations with Kids

Unfortunately, many of our favorite summer activities are suffering cancellations in light of the pandemic. For safety purposes, a lot of area parks, pools, and camps are making the tough decision to remain closed or cancel regularly scheduled programs. Though we understand it is the right choice during times like this, often our children may have a hard time grasping why they suddenly can’t attend their favorite camp or swim at the recreation center. Knowing how to approach the subject with our kids can help minimize the disappointment a bit.

While you may be tempted to hold off on discussing potential cancellations with your kids until you have a definitive answer, it may backfire to do so. It can often help children cope with potential disappointment if they are prepared to do so by discussing things up front. Let them know the chances of cancellations of their favorite activities and then brainstorm new ideas with them. Help them come up with a safe and fun alternative to look forward to in the event that their previous plans can’t come to fruition.

What to do When Your Favorite Summer Activities are Cancelled

If your planned summer activities were spoiled by the pandemic, it doesn’t mean you need to spend an entire season indoors with nothing to do. The beauty of the summer months brings with it a surplus of outdoor activity options, so put on your thinking caps and come up with some safe and fun alternatives to your previously scheduled plans. Some fantastic (and safe) outdoor family fun activities include:

Exploring trails and hiking new paths
Bike rides, roller blading, skateboarding, or scooter rides
Taking a scenic drive as a family
Plan and start a family garden
Playing sports, catch, tossing a frisbee, or flying a kite
Go camping or set up a tent in your back yard
Plan a scavenger hunt for kids

How to Encourage Social Interactions During Social Distancing

If your child appears to be struggling with being away from friends, reassure them that they are not alone and work with them on a solution to staying connected during social distancing. Remember, it’s still possible to plan fun activities with their friends via online chatting and video calls. Plan a fun game night for your child and their friends to connect and play virtually. Have a virtual slumber party where your child can chat with friends online while watching movies and having popcorn “together.” The most important thing to remember is that social distancing doesn’t mean we aren’t still connected. Get creative and remain vigilant about safety and you’ll help your family through the difficult times a bit easier.

Post-Pandemic: Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe as Parks and Public Spaces Open Back Up

Post-Pandemic: Tips to Keep Kids Safe as Parks and Public Spaces Open Back Up

June 11, 2020/in Uncategorized /by Jamie Kreps

With the weather warming up and things beginning to open publicly again following the global COVID-19 pandemic, many residents have found themselves antsy to get out of the house and return to some of their favorite activities outside. While physical activity is one of the best ways to help keep our bodies healthy – as well as our children’s bodies – rushing out to utilize shared spaces too soon or while unprepared to use them responsibly, can spell trouble for some. So, how do you keep kids safe as their favorite public places begin opening back up?

Returning to Pre-Pandemic Public Activities

As things begin opening back up, many parents will likely be wondering if it is safe to let their little ones return to their favorite public hang-out and what safety precautions they should be taking to ensure they stay healthy. With so many unknowns surrounding the pandemic, it’s not just understandable, but necessary, that parents know the risks and the best ways to safeguard their children as they begin returning to pre-pandemic “norms.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, returning to your local public parks and recreational facilities can be an important part of maintaining physical health, as long as certain guidelines and precautions are followed in the process.

“Staying physically active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy. In many areas, people can visit parks, trails, and open spaces as a way to relieve stress, get some fresh air, and stay active… While these facilities and areas can offer health benefits, it is important that you follow (specified) steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19,” the CDC explains.

How to Keep Kids Safe in Public after COVID-19

With our main concerns centered around the safety of our families, knowing how to shield our children from the dangers of the pandemic while opening back up to public interactions has been at the forefront of every parent’s mind lately. But just how do we allow our children to get back to their favorite public activities – safely?

The answer to that question begins with taking some informative steps first. As with anything, doing a bit of research before sending kids on a long overdue outdoor adventure can help ensure the highest chances of keeping them safe during uncertain times. Just as you wouldn’t send your child unaccompanied into a strange home, following the same mindset for post-pandemic public activity will help.

Taking Informative Steps

If you’re considering opening the doors to the great outdoors for your children now that the public is beginning to open up again, information is going to be your best line of defense. Staying informed of the latest information in your area will allow you to make the best possible decisions for your family as well as ensure you’re kept abreast of any new developments and safety protocols. In other words, stay safe by staying informed. Here are some of the most important ways you can stay in the loop of the latest news and guidelines surrounding public activity and your family’s safety:

CDC Guidelines. Before heading out to any public location, whether with or without your children, it’s critical that you know and understand the most current CDC recommendations for safety in public. Checking what the current guidelines are will ensure you are able to take all necessary precautions as noted by health officials.
Local Guidelines. In addition to the CDC’s recommendations, many communities and local authorities are imposing additional safety protocols in order to keep residents as safe as possible as we transition back to pre-pandemic public life. Check these regulations as outlined by the State of New Jersey Department of Health, as well as checking any additional regulations in place in your communities by looking at city social and governmental pages.
Individual Guidelines. In addition to government regulations and requirements, many public places may be imposing certain guidelines of their own. Before venturing out to a particular park or recreational space, contact them in advance to understand and prepare your family with proper safety protocol before leaving the house.

Keeping Your Family Safe with General Health Practices

Overall, if you’re ever confused or in doubt about a particular safety precaution or public guideline, it’s always safest to err on the side of caution. In general, however, the CDC recommends some basic health practices be utilized at times in public in order to maintain the safety of our families as we phase back into an open public life. Keeping these health practices are the CDC’s most recommended way to stay safe during this time:

Stay Close to Home. The further we travel for outdoor activity, the greater our risk becomes for being exposed to more potentially contaminated surfaces or infected individuals. Visiting recreational areas closer to home limits our travel and potential contact with these risks.
Continue to Maintain a 6 Foot Distance from Others. As difficult as this may be in some public situations, maintaining a safe distance (6 feet, according to the CDC) will limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19. If maintaining social distance is difficult (children in playground spaces), try to stick to places that are less crowded or visit during less busy times of the day.
Utilize Face Coverings. While face masks are not recommended for children under 2, older children should be using them while out in public areas – especially if there is difficulty maintaining a 6-feet-apart distance. This is one of the best ways to protect against potential contaminants.
Handwashing and Sanitizing. Another important step is to make sure children are aware of the need to properly wash and/or sanitize their hands as well as keeping their hands away from their faces while they’re out. If this is particularly difficult, you may want to choose an activity that doesn’t involve potentially contaminated areas like playground equipment.

By following the recommended safety guidelines of our public health officials and local regulatory commissions, it’s possible to phase back into public life safely. Stay vigilant with the recommendations and any changing requirements in order to keep kids safe and healthy as we begin to come out of this pandemic.