Summer is nearly over, fall is in the air, and kids are headed back to school. Here are some ways to take the worry out of whether your children are safe.
First, select the right backpack for your child. Children seem to have more and more school supplies. In addition, they get books at school and more papers. It would be easy just to get backpack with the latest superhero, the coolest colors, or the cheapest one. Remember however, this is the backpack that will need to last throughout the entire school year. You want it to last. Second, make sure it has reflective materials on it. As the daylight hours get shorter and darkness comes faster, it is important to make sure that everyone can see your child.
Second, could there be any more dangerous place than the pick up and drop off areas around the schoolyard. There are children coming and going as they arrive from home. There are cars dropping off children with drivers anxious to get on their way. Then there are buses with limited visibility. It is so important to educate your children about the safe places to enter the schoolyard. Taking them to the school prior to the school year beginning is a good way to familiarize them with good safety rules.
Third, walk the correct side of the road. It is surprising how many roads do not have sidewalks that parallel them. It is important in these scenarios to teach your children to walk toward traffic. Walk the path with them prior to school starting. Show them which side of the road to walk on and where to cross. Crosswalks should be observed since drivers will look for children at those locations more carefully than in the middle of the block.
Fourth, Be safe on the bikes. Bikes are a great way to get to school. They provide exercise and fun to the day. However, it is important that the rules of the road are followed. These can be confusing to children, so take the time to explain which side of the road they should ride on and where they should cross the street.
Fifth, play it safe at recess time. Remind children not to play rough sports on hard surfaces. It’s always important to play with one’s capabilities. Perhaps the most important thing is to make sure that they drink plenty of water. Consult the teacher to see if they can have water at their desk and then send a good water bottle with the child.
Most importantly have a fun and safe year. Let the worries go.