Children's Safety Tips for School

The start of the school year is full of exciting new experiences for your school age child. It is also an opportunity for your child to discover new dangers. As a parent, you will want to make sure that your children know that the rules you enforce at home are also to be applied in school; along with addition safety rules that the teacher may announce. The number one rule you will want your child to put into practice is: if he/she feels threatened or unsafe, always seek out a trusted adult (teacher, parent, family member, principal, guidance counselor) to whom he/she will discuss any worries or concerns.

Here are a few tips to consider for guidelines for your child’s safety at school:

1. Classroom rules: children should pay close attention to all classroom rules that the teacher announces or posts. As a parent, explain to your child the importance of following safety rules at school. The school rules are designed to keep all children safe and should be supported by the home. Parents and teachers need to become partners in keeping children safe at school and supporting the school rules is a good place to begin this positive collaboration.

2. School Bus Safety: Traveling to and from school requires students to follow special safety guidelines on the bus. Students should remain in their seats while the bus is moving. They should avoid throwing items or placing their arms or heads out of the windows. When boarding the bus and waiting or exiting at the bus stop, students should avoid running and shoving each other. Always cross in front of the stopped bus when the driver can see that it is safe for students to cross the road. Talk to your child about the importance of being quiet on the bus and to listen carefully to the bus driver’s directions. Stress the importance of school bus safety so your child can commute to and from school safely.

3. Avoid Physical Confrontations: Teach your child not to get into a physical fight with another child. Instead, he/she should find the teacher or another trusted adult and ask for assistance in settling the argument. If another child asks your child to do something he/she feels uncomfortable doing, he should alert an adult or teacher immediately. Teaching your child to talk things out with an adult present can teach him/her that arguments can be settled without physical confrontations.

These three tips will help to keep your child safe at school. Remember to communicate with your child’s teacher if you have any concerns about your child’s safety on the school bus or at school. Building a strong relationship with the school will bring a positive influence on your child’s success during the school year; so don’t hesitate to talk with the teachers, principal, or guidance counselor when you have questions or concerns about your child’s safety or academic progress.