As kids head back to school, it’s a great time to talk with your child about how to stay safe on the roads. Whether they walk, bike, take the bus, or ride in a car, it's essential that they have the skills to get to and from school safely. That might mean discussing where to wait for the school bus, how to behave in a parking lot, or reviewing safe crossing points.
Below, you'll find important tips to help keep your family safe this back-to-school season.
Walking or Biking to School
If your child walks or bikes to school alone, make sure they are familiar with the route. Help them choose a path with the fewest and safest crossing points. Walk or bike the route with them a few times so you can be confident they know how to navigate it safely.
Before allowing them to go on their own, assess whether your child is developmentally ready to handle traffic and road situations independently. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children under age 10 be accompanied by an adult when near or crossing streets.
Riding the School Bus
School buses are among the safest ways for children to get to school. However, most incidents involving school buses happen while children are getting on or off the bus, or waiting nearby.
Remind your child to wait several big steps away from the curb or road while waiting for the bus. This is not the time to play or roughhouse. Roads are dangerous, and children should stay alert. When the bus arrives, they should wait until it comes to a complete stop before approaching.
If your child needs to cross in front of the bus, they should do so at least 10 feet ahead and always make eye contact with the driver before crossing.
Reminder for drivers: You must stop when a school bus has its stop sign extended and lights flashing. This is both a legal requirement and a critical safety measure.
Driving Your Child to School
If you're dropping your child off, remember that school parking lots are busy places where cars and pedestrians often mix. During drop-off and pick-up times, these areas are especially crowded with students, families, and school staff. Use extra caution.
Teach your child to stay alert in parking lots and to always look both ways when crossing. For younger children, be sure to use the designated drop-off area chosen by the school. These spots are usually closest to the entrance and help limit their exposure to moving vehicles.
Remind your child not to walk between or directly behind parked cars and to avoid running into traffic. As a driver, always go slowly. When backing up, don't rely solely on backup cameras—turn and look to make sure the path is clear.
Final Safety Tips
- Remove distractions. Encourage your child to put away phones and take out earbuds when crossing streets. They need to be fully aware of their surroundings.
- Model safe behavior. Children often imitate what they see. Set a good example by obeying traffic signals, using crosswalks, and staying alert around vehicles. Simply saying, “I’m an adult,” doesn’t always stop kids from copying risky behavior.
About Safe Kids Connecticut
Safe Kids Connecticut is a statewide program focused on preventing unintentional injuries to children. It is led by the Injury Prevention Center, which is an initiative of Connecticut Children’s Office for Community Child Health. Together, these programs are committed to creating safer environments for children—whether on the road, at home, or during play.
Back-to-school is an exciting time. With a little planning and conversation, it can also be a safe one. Reviewing safety tips with your child helps build the confidence and habits they need for a successful year ahead.