An image of a paw print with large letters spelling โ€œPAWS.โ€ Inside the paw, the letters stand for: Practice Safety, Accept Responsibility, Work Hard, Show Respect.

In September, we are focusing on the PAWS characteristic of Practicing Safety

Bus Riders ยป
Teach your children school bus safety rules and practice with them.

  • Go to the bus stop with your child to teach them the proper way to get on and off the bus

  • Teach your children to stand 6 feet (or three giant steps) away from the curb

  • If your child must cross the street in front of the bus, teach him or her to walk on the side of the road until they are 10 feet ahead of the bus; your child and the bus driver should always be able to see each other

  • Get the facts on bus safety from Injury Facts

Driving Your Child to School ยป
Stay alert and avoid distracted driving.

  • Obey school zone speed limits and follow your school's drop-off procedure

  • Make eye contact with children who are crossing the street

  • Never pass a bus loading or unloading children

  • The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them to safely enter and exit the bus

School Safety Tips
Many school-related injuries are completely preventable. Follow these steps to ensure your child's safety at school.

Backpacks ยป
Choose a backpack for your child carefully; it should have ergonomically designed features to enhance safety and comfort.

  • Ask your children to use both straps when wearing their backpack to evenly distribute the weight on their shoulders

  • Don't overstuff a backpack; it should weigh no more than 5% to 10% of your child's body weight

  • Rolling backpacks should be used cautiously since they can create a trip hazard in crowded school hallways

Fun Safety video for Kids
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fHkGsvqroc

In October we are focusing on the PAWS characteristic of Accepting Responsibility.