These days, a backpack is considered basic equipment. Be sure to choose one with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. Try to pack light, as a back- pack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the student’s body weight. Heavier items should be closest to the center of the back. Make sure your child always use both shoulder straps to avoid muscle strain.
It’s understandable that the first day can cause a bit of anxiety at times. Thankfully, there are ways to make it all easier for your child. Let your little one know it’s likely they aren’t the only one feeling that way and that teachers will make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible. Point out the positive aspects of starting school and remind them about the fun things they did in previous years.
If your child is walking to school, make sure they have a safe route with well-trained adult crossing guards at every intersection. Bright colored clothing makes your child more visible to drivers. Also, remember that small children are impulsive and less cautious around traffic, so carefully consider whether or not yours is ready to walk to school without adult supervision. Those riding a bike should always wear a helmet, no matter how short or long the ride. They need to follow the rules of the road; use appropriate hand signals; ride in the same direction as traffic and obey traffic lights and stop signs.
When riding the bus, make sure your child waits for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb. If crossing the street, they need to check and make sure no other traffic is coming. Kids should always move around the bus and remain in clear view of the bus driver. If your child’s school bus has seat belts, make sure your child uses them at all times. If not, you should encourage the school to buy or lease buses with belts.
If you’re driving the kids to school, remember, they need to be protected by being properly restrained the whole time. Until they are four, a rear-facing child safety seat is the call. And remember, as smart as they are, older children still need support. In the car, that means a booster cushion until they're ready for an adult seat. The best measure for that is when the vehicle's seat belts fit them properly – when they are 55 inches tall and usually, at least 10 years old. All children under 13 years of age should ride in the rear seat of vehicles. If you must drive more children than can fit in the rear seat (when carpooling, for example), move the front-seat passenger’s seat as far back as possible and have the child ride in a booster seat if the seat belts do not fit properly without it. Children should not sit or be placed in the passenger seat if the air bag is active.
Now, here’s to a safe and happy school year.
