We cannot wait to welcome your children, in person and virtually, to the start of another, albeit different, school year!  Please know that our plans align with the NJ Department of Education Guidelines, Governor Murphy’s executive orders, and NJ Department of Health/CDC recommendations.

We encourage you to help prepare your child by reviewing the attached links and reinforcing the following topics with him/her:

• How to properly wear a mask (covering both the nose and mouth) and how this is important to keep our school community safe and healthy
• What it means to be socially distant (6 feet, in kids terms, is the width of a car or roughly a pool “noodle.”)
• How school might look different this year, as compared to the past (sitting in rows in the classroom, not leaving their seats, very limited physical and social interaction with their peers)
• How to properly wash his/her hands and its importance
• Managing personal tasks independently (tying shoes, zipping and unzipping coats and buttons, opening snack and drink materials, etc.)

Please Note the New Attendance Procedures:

Parents need to report student absences on our absentee line via email: bmsattendance@hanovertwpschools.org 

The subject of your email should read: “LAST NAME and HOMEROOM” Attendance (For example -BUSBY KC - Attendance) In the body of the email, please include:

• Your Child’s Name (first & last)
• Your Child’s Homeroom Teacher
• Reason for the Absence (be specific)
• If your child normally attends HTSACC, follow their normal procedures

I have composed some helpful information on staying healthy and informed during this stressful time.  I hope you find the information useful. Please be aware that you can email me with any questions or concerns you may have . My email is wendy.busby@hanovertwpschools.org or call my health office line 973-515-2421.

COVID-19 Virus Information
Information is rapidly changing about this new virus. To have the most up to date information, stay informed by accessing the information below. 
CDC: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC
NJDOH:  Department of Health | Communicable Disease Service | COVID-19
Quick Reference- COVID-19 vs. Flu:  Distinguishing the Difference COVID-19.pdf

If you or a family member is feeling ill: 
Reach out to your health care provider
Know that many practices and urgent cares are offering virtual appointments and COVID-19 drive-thru testing. If you or your child need to be seen, you can avoid offices but still receive the medical care you need. 

Talking with Children about COVID-19
Parent Resource: Talking to Children About COVID-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource
Tools for Children: What Kids Want To Know About Coronavirus: An Original Comic 
Video for Older Children: Coronavirus BrainPOP                                             
CDC Recommendations: Talking with children about Coronavirus Disease 2019 | CDC

Social Distancing 
Please be advised that play dates are being strongly discouraged- we all need to practice social distancing and that includes children. Consider setting up a virtual playdate with FaceTime or Skype.  You can play games, do fitness activities, or even practice mindfulness together. Even though you are not able to see your family and friends in person, seeing their faces and hearing their voices helps with mood and  anxiety levels. Read more about Social Distancing and Playdates.

Anxiety
Children often fear the unknown – and with these unusual circumstances, we are all feeling the repercussions of the unknown. While change is inevitable, it can also be stressful for children. A normal routine brings comfort and consistency to a child’s life.  To read more about the importance of a routine: Creating Structure andRoutine

To deal with difficult questions/anxiety:
How to Cope With an Anxious Child
Parents Passing Anxiety to Children  Anxious Parents

To engage your child in conversation:  
Conversation Starters

To encourage good sleep habits:
Winding Down for Better Sleep