School bus safety is so important in the world today. Children really need to know the rules. There is so much traffic on the road that bus drivers really need to focus their full-attention on it to before students are safely transported to and from school.

However, even before the bus arrives and children file on for a day of learning, parents need to talk with their children about what behavior is expected of them. This may be difficult with first-time bus riders but more often than not, the words of their parents seep into the brain and remind them.

One of the most important rules is not to horseplay where injuries from an oncoming vehicle can occur. Children love to horseplay and although it can be fun to play before schools, accidents can happen. Young children especially find this time relaxing before the rigors of classroom instruction. To some, this could be considered a recess. Although some times playfulness can lead arguments that then lead into a fight.

As the bus arrives, it's important for children to know they won't be left behind if they aren't the initial one on. Reminding them not to push or shove just to be first in line can really go a long way. If the bus hasn't fully stopped, a child can get seriously injured if the driver hits them or in some cases runs over them.
When on the bus, students really need to let the driver focus all of his or her attention on the other drivers and road ahead. Drivers don't mind minimal talking so long as there is no loud conversations or shouting. Parents should make students aware that if the bus driver is distracted, even for a split second, the consequence can be overwhelming. (Recently, a bus driver in Northeast Arkansas was cited for reckless driving after taking her eyes off the road to check on her students. The bus hit a railing and went into a ditch. The seven children on board were sent to a local hospital and only sustained minor injuries from the accident.)

Some bus routes are forced to cross railroad tracks. A rural road is not likely to have crossing guards or flashing lights to warn drivers of any imminent danger. Music, shouting and other loud sounds can distract the driver and cause them not to hear the horn of a train. Remember even school buses are no match to the speed and power of a locomotive. Children need to be made aware of this danger.
Just like in a vehicle, students should never throw papers or trash outside. It's not only dangerous to the student but for other drivers as well. Many kids these days do not seem to realize that.

Students should never be afraid to speak to the bus driver about their concerns. However, sometimes drivers don't have the time to listen so parents can speak with them after a child has relayed their concerns of a situation. Drivers should be made aware of complications that arise on the bus. Sometimes a seating chart must be made and parents should encourage the child to sit where they are assigned.

Parents whose children are informed are most likely the ones to follow the rules. These students sometimes will aid a substitute driver about their route to be sure everyone gets home safe and sound. Those students can become great leaders to their fellow scholars.

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