
Traveling can be boring at times, even for kids who have never been on a school bus before. If you have to ride the bus for long periods, consider making a game out of it or finding other ways to make the trip more enjoyable.
Here are a few ideas:
- Talk to your child’s school bus driver and find out what route the bus takes to school. This way, you can point out landmarks and other interesting sights along the way.
- Bring along a few small toys or snacks that your child can enjoy on the ride.
- Encourage your child to talk to other kids on the bus and make friends.
- Help your child stay calm and relaxed by talking quietly and reassuringly during the ride.
- If your child tends to get motion sickness, talk to the doctor about possible solutions. Chewable ginger candies or wristbands that apply pressure to the inside of the wrist can sometimes help.
With a little planning and effort, you can help make your child’s school bus ride more enjoyable. You and your child can make the most of this time each day by working together.
How to save money on school transportation costs
- See if your district offers any discounts for families close to the school or has multiple children enrolled.
- Find out if there are any safe walking routes to school that your child can take.
- Talk to other parents in your neighborhood and see if they would be interested in starting a carpool.
- Check with your child’s school to see if they offer any bus pass programs for needy families.
- If you work from home, see if your employer would be willing to subsidize part of your child’s school transportation costs.
With a little planning and creativity, you can make the school bus ride more fun for your kids while saving money on transportation costs.
School bus safety: What parents need to know
When your child starts riding the school bus, it’s important to review the basics of safe bus behavior. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure your child knows their full name, address, and phone number if they need to contact you in an emergency.
- Teach your child how to stay seated and avoid horseplay while the bus is moving.
- Show your child how to stay clear of the bus door; not block the aisle while getting on and off the bus.
- Emphasize the importance of not talking to strangers or accepting rides from anyone other than a trusted adult.
- If your child sees something suspicious on the bus or at their bus stop, encourage them to tell a trusted adult.
By reviewing these safety tips with your child, you can help them stay safe while riding the school bus. If you have any concerns, contact your child’s school or the bus company for more information.