All About School Buses
For parents who have driven their kids to school throughout elementary school, middle and high school bring new opportunities for students to take ownership of their day-to-day schedules. Riding the school bus is one simple way your child can foster a growing sense of responsibility and independence.
Here are six simple tips all parents should know when transitioning to riding the school bus:
Learn the Bus Schedule: Make sure you and your child are familiar with the school bus schedule, including the pick-up and drop-off times and locations, before the first day riding the bus. Your child should know when and where to catch the bus—and should plan to arrive at the stop a few minutes early.
Practice: Walk or drive the route to the bus stop with your child before the first day riding the bus. This will help your child become familiar with the surroundings so she is comfortable making the transition. A practice run will also help your child understand traffic rules and safety measures.
Safety Rules: Educate your child about school bus safety rules, such as waiting for the bus on the sidewalk away from the road and following the bus driver's instructions. We recommend staying five big steps away from the bus while waiting to board, and taking five big steps away when getting off the bus.
Emergency Contacts: Make sure your child knows your contact information and has all emergency contact information memorized, written down, or entered into their cell phone
Personal Belongings: Your child should be responsible for their personal belongings, such as backpacks, lunch boxes, and jackets. Riding the bus involves some time spent outside. Stress the importance of planning ahead and dressing for the weather, whether that means wearing extra layers or carrying an umbrella.
Communication: Encourage your child to talk about their experiences on the bus. Know who to communicate with if your student witnesses bullying or inappropriate behavior on the bus. Be sure to report this behavior to the school and keep an open line of communication with your child.