Back to school season brings all kinds of different feelings for parents. Excitement? Anxiety? Maybe a little bit (or a lot of bit) overwhelmed? What goes without saying is that every parent wants their child to be and feel safe as they launch into a new school year.
It’s no surprise that more parents than ever feel concerned about their childrens’ safety at school. From devastating news of school shootings to bullying and mental health, sometimes school can seem like the frontlines more than lunch lines.
So as we approach the start of a new school year, let's dive into 12 different aspects of back-to-school safety. From school bus safety to fire drills, we’re covering it all!. It's like learning a new skill – the dance between mindful caution and enjoying every step of the journey. Back-to-school safety isn't just a line on the to-do list; it's a top priority that deserves our full attention.
Safe Walking Routes
Walking to school can be a big step for kids (and let’s be real, parents too!) If this is your child’s first year,start by looking for the shortest routes with less traffic and fewer roads to cross. To make sure they stay safe and don’t walk on busy streets, always choose sidewalks and special crosswalks for pedestrians.
It's necessary to teach your child important rules for crossing the street safely. Make sure they know to always use crosswalks and to stop at red lights. Tell them they should wait for the walk signal before they start crossing. When there aren't any sidewalks, show them how to walk on the side of the road facing traffic. This way, they can see the cars coming towards them.
Walking with a buddy or in a group is a good idea, as it's safer together. You can also point out safe places where they can meet friends, like parks, libraries, or shopping centers. And remember, they should never accept rides or talk to strangers.
Getting the right tools can also help! Using GPS tracking devices like a kids smart watch can be a great way to help kids feel more confident, and give parents more peace of mind as kids walk to school. Devices like the COSMO JrTrack 2 SE kids smartwatch pair to a parent app where you can check location and even set customized SafeZone alerts to receive notifications when children enter or leave a set area.
Stranger Danger
Teaching children crucial "stranger danger" safety tips is an important way to keep them safe. It ultimately helps them grasp the idea of who strangers are and why it's so important not to talk to or accept anything from people they don't know.
In addition, you should always encourage them to stick with a group or a trusted adult when they're not at school and steer clear of isolated places. You can even make learning fun by playing out different scenarios together. Show them how to respond if a stranger approaches, reminding them to confidently say "no," run to safety, and find help.
It is always important to remember that even if someone seems friendly, they should always be cautious and avoid sharing personal information.
Buddy System
In the realm of back-to-school safety, effective communication becomes a powerful tool, especially for younger children. Instilling the habit of continuously updating a parent or guardian about their location is a wonderful way to ensure security in unexpected situations.
The "buddy system" emerges as a fantastic strategy here. Having your child get in the practice of picking a dependable friend or classmate as their buddy for the day can add an extra layer of protection, especially during activities like walking to school or going on field trips. Reminding your child about the importance of sticking together and never venturing off alone, will ultimately aid in their overall safety and wellbeing. It is always best to stick with someone they know and trust, even in familiar places.
You can also urge them to speak up if they ever feel uneasy and remind them about the significance of the "check-in" point and time. This offers a reassuring backup should anyone become lost or separated.
For an extra layer of safety, consider equipping them with communication devices like the Cosmo JrTrack(TM) all-in-one phone, watch, and GPS tracker. A kid-safe smartwatch tool like this enables real-time contact, proving particularly valuable during emergencies. This particular smartwatch offers a number of essential safety features that will help your child get into the routine of practicing safety habits.
Integrating this with the buddy system doesn't just elevate their safety; it also cultivates social skills and fosters camaraderie. By embracing open communication and leveraging these protective strategies, parents can confidently empower their children to navigate situations responsibly while offering that essential peace of mind.
School Zone Safety
School zones can often be a busy and sometimes dangerous atmosphere for younger children without proper safety habits. It’s important to provide your child with an understanding of the tailored rules in these zones, encompassing reduced speed limits, marked crosswalks, and the significance of yellow or red flashing lights.
While using crosswalks, instill the habit of being vigilant and taking those extra glances before setting foot on the road. Foster attentiveness to the school crossing guards, valuing their guidance as a key safety measure. Lastly, for those who bike to school, make sure to reinforce the importance of helmet use and adherence to biking safety protocols.
School Bus Safety
Most children enjoy getting on the school bus with all of their friends, as it is time spent away from the classroom. However, there are many concerns that parents may share as they let their child onto a vehicle by themselves. Instilling the significance of school bus safety in your children is just as important as any other scenario.
First, make sure they know to stand a comfortable distance away from the curb and wait until the school bus comes to a complete stop before stepping on or off. Always encourage them to take three giant steps away from the bus when crossing the street, guaranteeing the driver's clear sight.
Secondly, avoid walking behind the bus, as the driver's view might be limited. Once onboard, guide your child to take a seat and keep the aisle free from obstacles, ensuring a smooth ride for everyone. More importantly, teaching your children to avoid any behavior that could distract the driver, as this could pose danger while driving the bus. The good news is most bus drivers have their own set of safety rules that they set in place for children as well.
Remember, spreading kindness among fellow passengers not only creates a pleasant atmosphere but also contributes to an overall safe bus experience.
Backpack Safety
Backpacks can come in all shapes and sizes, and believe it or not, they can actually be dangerous for some young children if not fitted right. It is always best practice to look for one with wide, padded shoulder straps and a cushioned back for added ease and comfort.
To keep the load manageable, make sure the backpack isn't too heavy, and only the essentials are packed. Remind them to use both shoulder straps instead of opting for just one for an even spread of weight. When lifting the backpack, encourage them to bend at the knees to avoid any strain on the back. If it's possible at school, consider using lockers or leaving behind items that aren't needed to lighten the load they carry to and from home.
Regularly checking the backpack's contents can ensure they aren't lugging around anything sharp or potentially risky.
Allergies and Medications
Another potential school-related risk could be allergies or medication related. If your child has serious allergies or requires some form of medication, informing their school before the school year officially starts is always a priority. This could be anything related to food, insect stings, or any other triggers your child may have.
Partner up with the school staff to craft an allergy action plan that's tailored to your child's needs. This plan should include crystal-clear directions for tackling severe allergic reactions and giving any required medications, like epinephrine auto-injectors.
If the school requires medication, work together to ensure the right staff members have the necessary medicines on hand and are familiar with the proper dosages and administration procedures.
Keeping an updated list of emergency contacts is always a great idea, and don't forget to loop the school in about any changes in your child's health condition or medications.
Hydration and Nutrition
Even if children don’t typically like eating their vegetables, making sure they have proper daily hydration and nutrition is very important to their overall health and safety.
Kick-starting their day with a nourishing breakfast sets the tone for a vibrant day ahead, providing both their body and mind with the fuel they need. When it comes to lunch, a balanced assortment of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins creates a winning combination, infusing their day with sustained energy.
Hydration is the superhero, especially during active times or warmer months. Consider sending them with a refillable water bottle to ensure easy access to a refreshing sip all day long.
Playground Safety
Play areas are the culprit for many broken bones and twisted ankles, but they are a great place for children to socialize and have fun with classmates. However, safety practices remain a top priority for kids when climbing and playing on these plastic jungles.
Having your child understand that waiting their turn, and using the equipment properly, will help them to not come running back home with tears in their eyes. Everything from using the slide feet first to grabbing the chain handles on a swing will ensure that they are having fun and remaining safe at the same time.
Highlight how being aware of their surroundings is key and encourage them to keep the play gentle and friendly, avoiding rough or aggressive behavior. It's a fantastic practice to look out for their playmates to dodge any potential bumps and tumbles. If they spot any broken or damaged equipment, give them a high-five for being responsible by reporting it to a teacher or supervisor straight away.
Communicate with Teachers
Communicating with teachers can be the most significant help of all, as teachers often know how to handle dangerous or sometimes scary situations.
Make sure your child knows they're always welcome to approach their teachers with any thoughts, questions, or matters that pop up during the school year. Teachers are amazing allies, ready to help not only with academics but also with emotional growth.
Remind your child that if anything ever feels off – whether it's about feeling uncomfortable, dealing with bullying, or tackling any challenges at school – they should never hesitate to reach out to a teacher or a trusted adult.
Fire Drills and Safety Procedures
An easy way to show the importance of fire drills is by explaining to your child that they're like practice runs for real-life superhero moments. Help them understand that fire drills make sure everyone is ready if there's ever a real fire. Share the excitement of knowing the special paths to take during evacuations and where the secret fire exits are. Remind them to stick close to their class in an orderly line, moving swiftly but calmly. A school fire is always serious, and your child should be taught to follow the firefighters and school rules appropriately.
Here's a fun tip: elevators are like hibernating bears during fire emergencies, so they're off-limits! Use those magic emergency numbers to show them how to be heroes by knowing when and how to call for help.
Regular Check-Ins
Make these moments a wonderful opportunity to peek into your child's day-to-day adventures. Inspire them to chat with you about their experiences, the things on their mind, and even the challenges they might face. By fostering a cozy and open space, you're creating a special zone where they can comfortably share their feelings and stories. You can always ask about their interactions with friends, teachers, and all the school heroes to ensure they're having a positive time.
Those little shifts in behavior and mood are like secret messages – they can give you insights into anything that needs a bit of extra attention. Plus, keeping up with their teachers and the school staff is like having a super team at your side, ready to keep you updated on their academic journey and any safety-related info.
In addition to this, a product such as a kids phone watch can be a huge plus for checking in with your children throughout the day. With two-way calling and texting, you can communicate with your child no matter where you are.
Prioritizing Safety Essential Tips
Through a thoughtful and well-rounded safety plan, we're weaving a protective cocoon around their learning journey. Embrace these practices with excitement, knowing they pave the way for a secure and nurturing space for our children to bloom. This proactive approach doesn't just empower them academically and socially – it's like sprinkling confidence and independence into their school year. As we journey together, let's make certain that their educational path is rich with growth, joy, and the comforting embrace of safety.
