Assuming your child knows how to be safe on a school bus is like assuming that their car seats were put in properly. This is something that you want to be absolutely sure of. Your child's first ride on a school bus is like an adventure to them.

They are venturing away from you probably for the first time in their lives. There are certain things they should know before you let them set out on their adventures.

Here are a few tips to help your child and you feel safer about the whole deal:

1. Make sure they know to take everything they need when they leave in the morning for the bus stop. Write a check list with them. They won't suddenly remember that their lunch is in on the kitchen table and run back to get it. Therefore they won't miss the bus.

2. Make sure your child remembers his/her bus number. This is very important. You want them to get on the right bus to and from school.

3. Take your child to the bus stop the day before school starts. Show them where it is safe to stand. Teach them not to stand in the middle of the road even if their friends do. They should know not to run around and horse play at the bus stop. This is very dangerous.

4. Teach your child that one person at a time can board the school bus. No pushing and shoving to get the best seat.

5. Your child should find the first available seat and sit down. They should not stand in the aisle trying to find a better seat. If your child sits down as soon as they find an available seat, the bus won't be stopped in the road longer than necessary therefore making it safer for the children and all the motorists out there.

6. No fighting. If someone tries to pick a fight with them, your children should have the ability to avoid those confrontations.

7. Just as a child should sit as soon as possible when they board the bus, they should stand and leave the bus as soon as possible when they get to their stop.

8. Your child should know that they shouldn't talk to strangers any time. This goes double for when they are waiting for the bus or walking home from the bus stop.

9. When on the bus, your child should always remain seated. No getting up and walking around.

These are some simple rules that your child probably knows the basics of already. They will do a great job and you will soon feel more and more at ease with their ability to do things on their own.

Learn more about this author, Dawn Hawkins.
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