Back-to-School Safety

Whether it’s your first, last, or only child going off to school this year, it’s probably bittersweet. We’re so proud to see how our children have grown, but it’s hard to let go. There are always the first day jitters for mom and dad: Will they find their classroom? Will they get their seatbelt on in the bus? Who will they eat lunch with? Within no time our little kindergarteners will know the routine, but it’s always good to keep some safety tips in mind when sending them off to school:

• If your child is taking the bus to school make sure you know the route in case of any emergency.
• Teach your child to stay on the sidewalk or far away from the road until the bus comes to a complete stop and signals that it’s OK to cross. Even then, be alert for cars that might illegally pass the school bus!
• Be sure that your child is not wearing clothes with long drawstrings or, in the winter, long scarves that could catch in the bus door.
• If your child will be taking a different bus to afterschool activities, make sure he has your home phone and cell phone numbers memorized in case he gets on the wrong bus.
• Alert the teacher to any food allergies your child has and be sure the school nurse has your child’s EpiPen® on hand if need be.
• Prior to school starting, take a walk around the school playground to check for any safety hazards, including rusted bolts or S rings, protruding tree roots, and broken equipment.
• The days are still sunny and warm at the beginning of school, so remember to apply sunscreen (with an SPF of at least 45) liberally.
• Purchase a backpack with wide shoulder straps, make sure your child uses both of them and doesn’t just sling it around one shoulder, and be aware that the total weight when packed should be no more than 10–20% of your child’s weight.