Here are some easy tips to help keep your family safe and ready for a smooth school year.
1. Travel Smart
Whether your child is walking, biking, or catching the bus, here are some tips you and your children can use to help them get to school safely:
Walking to school:
- Use sidewalks wherever possible.
- Cross only at marked crosswalks or traffic signals.
- Teach kids to make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.
Biking to school:
- Make sure helmets fit snugly and are always worn properly. (Even if it’s not “cool!”)
- Ride with traffic, not against it, and use hand signals when turning.
- Keep bikes in good working condition—check brakes and tires often.
Riding the bus:
- Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before approaching.
- Always stay in the driver’s line of sight. Never walk behind the bus!
- Use handrails when boarding and remain seated during the ride.
2. Stay Safe Online
As schoolwork and communication move increasingly online, digital safety is just as important as physical safety.
- Make sure devices have updated security software and use secure Wi-Fi networks.
- Teach children to never share personal information (like full names, addresses, or school names) online.
- Help them create strong, unique passwords, and remind them not to share passwords with friends.
3. Play It Safe on the Playground
Recess is all about fun, but a few simple precautions can help avoid injuries:
- Supervision matters. Younger kids should always have an adult nearby.
- Encourage age-appropriate play and teach kids to follow playground rules.
- Remind them to slide feet-first, sit on swings, and be mindful of others around them.
4. Healthy Habits Go a Long Way
Germs spread fast in schools, but small habits can make a big difference.
- Encourage regular handwashing, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
- Teach kids to spot signs of illness and remind them to speak up if they’re not feeling well.
- Keeping kids home when they’re sick helps protect everyone’s health.
5. Be Prepared for Emergencies
You never know when an emergency might happen, so make sure your child knows what to do:
- Practice important contact info: full name, address, phone number, and how to call 911.
- Talk through the school’s emergency procedures and what to expect during drills.
- Reassure your child that these plans are in place to keep them safe.
A Safe Start to a Successful School Year
The back-to-school season is the perfect time to reset routines, refresh expectations, and build confidence. By covering a few safety basics now, you’ll help set your child up for a healthy, happy, and successful year ahead.
Here’s to fresh notebooks, new friendships, and peace of mind all around.
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