School is back in session, and parents and their children have readjusted to the daily routine. The beginning of a new school is an ideal time to remind children about safety and personal empowerment. Discuss personal safety, individual responsibility, and accountability before children head out to catch the bus or pile into a carpool. Here are five everyday safety tips to empower children.
1. Teach the difference between “good strangers” and “dangerous strangers.”
Stranger danger was taught to children simplistically. The mantra was basic: “don’t talk to strangers!” However, this very black and white rule could put children in harm’s way. Not all strangers are bad, and sometimes children need to approach someone they don’t know for help.
Teach children to identify good strangers. These include parents with children or grandparents with children, authority figures like police officers, and store clerks wearing a name tag.
Always teach children that it’s never ok to leave a store if they are lost or separated from parents. They also should never get into a stranger’s vehicle. Explain that a trustworthy stranger won’t encourage them to leave a store or get into a car.
2. Teach children about personal boundaries and to respect the personal boundaries of others.
Everyone has personal space. These personal boundaries should be respected. Teach children that they do not have to hug someone if they feel uncomfortable. They also need to respect the feelings of others related to boundaries. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself is a universal safety tip.
3. Stay on the sidewalk when waiting for the school bus.
Children should never play in the street, road, or cul-de-sac when waiting for the bus. They should always stand on the sidewalk away from the road. Don’t run to the bus!
4. Use care with words.
Bullying is dangerous and harmful. Children must use care in their words and how they talk to others, including teachers—no name-calling, snapping pictures of others without permission, or other mean behaviors. Help children understand that they need to treat people how they would want to be treated.
5. Avoid writing a child’s name on the exterior of backpacks or lunch boxes.
If these items must be marked, write a name or initials on the interior.
School Bus Safety: More Tips for Staying Safe on the Ride to School
More than 20 million children ride the bus to and from school daily. Children need to follow the bus rules and respect their bus drivers. Discuss school bus safety with children before they enjoy their first ride of the year.
School Bus Safety Rules
Children may be slightly apprehensive when riding the school bus for the first time. Many bus drivers understand that new students do not always understand the processes and rules.
Children may choose their seat on the bus. However, bus drivers may stipulate assigned seating. Younger children typically sit in the front of the bus, while the oldest children sit in the back.
Standing up or moving around on the bus is against the rules. Teach children to stay seated until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver says that it’s safe.
Why Are There Cameras on School Buses?
Today, many school buses feature cameras to monitor activity on the bus. These cameras ensure that the bus company and the school district can properly document bullying, physical violence, or other issues. These cameras aid safety and compliance.
Drivers: Watch for the Stop for School Bus Sign
Teen drivers and adult drivers must be extra vigilant when schools are in session. Missouri law requires all drivers to stop when the school bus is loading or unloading. If the Stop sign is visible, both lanes of traffic must come to a full and complete stop for children to safely cross the street.
Talk About Safety Topics Year-Round
Wright City Fire Protection District reminds parents to talk to children about important safety topics during the beginning of the school year. Discuss stranger danger (and safe strangers), bus safety, bullying, and personal boundaries. Start this year on safe footing and start these important conversations.
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