Kids – Time to head back to school, see old friends and meet some new ones!
How are you going to get to school?
• If your parents take you – great! Just make sure you wear your seatbelt in the car or harness if you are in a car seat.
• If you ride the school bus, be sure to stay in your seat during the ride. Be courteous so the bus driver can concentrate. Keep a safe distance from the bus while you are waiting – about 5 giant steps. Wait until the bus driver signals you to come on to the bus before you get too close. Use the handrails when going on or off the bus.
• If you walk or ride your bike to school, make sure you are always with someone. Pay attention to all the traffic laws and be extra careful at intersections. Don’t forget to wear your helmet!
Carrying your stuff to school:
• Make sure you have a good backpack with nice padded straps. This can get heavy and you don’t want the straps hurting your shoulders. Always use both straps – carrying your backpack over one shoulder can really strain your shoulders and you’ll get lopsided! Rolling backpacks are always a great idea.
• Every night go through your backpack and take out what you don’t need for the next day. It will lighten your load.
• Always put the heaviest items at the bottom of your backpack
• Always use both of the straps on the backpack – the weight will be more even.
What about in the classroom? Most teachers will have rules for the classroom but here are some other things to think about.
• If someone asks you to do something you don’t want to do – then don’t do it! Trust yourself if it doesn’t seem right.
• If you get in an argument with someone try to work it out. Fighting will only get you hurt and in big trouble!
• If anything is bothering you about the school, talk to a trusted grown-up.
• Work hard and learn as much as you can – it will take you far in life!
Parents: have kids pick out their clothes the night before – the search in the morning will cause more delay. In fact, prep outfits for the week if possible.
Don’t have too many breakfast choices. It can get hectic. Give a couple of choices and move on. Each day can have different choices.
No technology in the morning. It will slow kids down in getting ready. No i-pads, phones, etc.
Try to stay calm: If kids see you half-crazed and rushing around, they will feel that way too. If you have to get up a little early so you don’t feel pressured then do until you get the routine down.
Have a great school year!
Cinda Seamon
Fire & Life Safety Educator
Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue