Back-to-school time means a whole new schedule is about to begin, and that includes thinking about a safe travel plan to and from school for your child.
Many students look forward to the day when they can travel to and from school on their own. For most, it’s their first bit of independence. Whether they’re close enough to walk to school, or need to catch the bus, it’s important for parents to remind their children about safe travel habits. Here are some travel safety tips to go over with your children.
Walking to school safety tips
- Do walk with an adult you know if you’re under 10 years old.
- Do walk on the sidewalk if there is one. Otherwise make sure you walk on the left side of the road.
- Do put your phone away. Follow the “heads up, phones down” rule.
- Do stop before you cross the street, and look left, right and left again before crossing.
- Don’t cross the street unless you’re at a crosswalk.
- Don’t wear headphones.
- Don’t talk to strangers who may approach you.
- Don’t walk alone. Always have a buddy.
Biking to school safety tips
- Do go with an adult if you’re under 10 years old.
- Do wear a helmet.
- Do wear elbow and knee pads.
- Do get off your bike to walk across crosswalks.
- Do stay on the route your parents outlined for you.
- Don’t ride alone. Always ride with a buddy.
- Don’t fuss about wearing bright clothing and putting reflectors on your bike. It’s the only way to be sure cars will see you.
- Don’t ride down steep hills.
School bus safety tips
- Do take three giant steps (5 feet) away from the curb.
- Do walk where the bus driver can see you.
- Do stay seated until the bus driver tells you to stand up.
- Do tell the driver if you see or hear anything that makes you feel unsafe.
- Don’t start walking until the bus driver confirms they see you.
- Don’t walk behind the bus.
- Don’t sit with more than two people per seat.
- Don’t turn around in your seat.
Carpool safety tips
- Do sit in a booster seat if you’re smaller. Check your state guidelines for booster seats.
- Do wear your seat belt across your body, from shoulder to hip.
- Don’t sit in the front seat unless you’re 13 years or older.
- Don’t distract the driver.
- Don’t accept rides from anyone you don’t know.
