Transportation Safety - post

Caregivers should teach children appropriate school bus safety rules prior to putting children on a school bus. Practice these rules with children to ensure everyone knows and understands them. 

At the Bus Stop:

• Stand 6 feet (or three giant steps) away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
• Supervise young children.

Around the Bus

• Cross in front of the bus – at least 10 feet (or five giant steps) – and make eye contact with the driver before crossing.
• Never walk behind the bus.
• If you drop something near the bus, do not pick it up; tell the bus driver instead.

Getting On/Off the Bus

• Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens before approaching the bus or standing up on the bus.
• Use the handrail.
• Secure any loose or hanging objects like straps on a backpack or drawstrings on a hood.

Behavior on the Bus:

• Buckle up if seat belts are available.
• Stay in your seat keeping your head, arms, and papers inside the bus, and talk quietly.
• Keep aisles clear of books and bags.

SPECIAL NEEDS: The school bus can be incredibly intimidating to some children with special needs. It can be loud, bumpy, and might take a detour or an unexpected turn. This can be very upsetting to some children with special needs. Teachers should know their students, implement a Transportation Safety Plan if needed, provide an assistant if needed, and incorporate transportation needs on the student’s IEP. 

Interested in learning more about transportation safety and field trips? ChildCareEd offers several training courses designed to support educators in keeping children safe while being transported. Check out these courses below to learn more.

• Transportation Safety
• Enriching Education: Field Trips