Back To School Safety Tips

Back to school season is here! As you swing back into the school year routine and summer draws to a close, it's important to remember – and share with your children – some key tips that will help keep them safe and healthy throughout the school year.

Memorize Contact Information

Make sure your child knows their full name, address, home phone number and how to use a phone. The school should have a record of emergency contact details that includes office phone, cell phone, home phone, etc. Also ensure that your child knows which adult to contact in case of an emergency!

Provide Teachers With As Much Information As Possible

Your child’s teacher spends a fair amount of time with them during the school year. Filling them in on things like allergies, habits, behavioral traits, specific needs, etc. will help all parties involved when it comes to keeping your child safe and taken care of throughout the day.

Memorize Routes and Landmarks

Showing your child landmarks and safe areas between school and home will not only help them get familiar with their home to school route, but it will teach them that they have somewhere else to go in case of emergencies. Teach your children to use the main roads and avoid shortcuts in isolated areas. In case they use the bus, make sure they know which one to use. Use best practices when it comes to stranger danger.

Clothing and School Supplies

To prevent injury, backpacks should have wide straps, padding in the back and shoulders, and should not weigh more than 10 to 15 percent of a child’s body weight. When placing items in a backpack, place the heavier items first. The closer the heavier items are to a child’s back, the less strain it will cause. Make sure your child’s school is up-to-date on the latest recalled children’s products and toys. Teach your children how to use their school supplies safely (like scissors, staplers, pencils, etc.)

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