Going back to school is an exciting time. But parents and guardians must prepare their children for the first day, and keeping tabs on transportation and behavioral needs as the school year kicks into gear.

Preparing before the first day

Transitioning from summer routines to school-year routines can be challenging. The school year requires different needs to be met. Here are some tips to help you and your family get a head start before the first day:

• Establish a nightly routine with earlier bedtimes a week before the first day of school.
• Make sure your child is familiar with their dropoff and pickup spots for school.
• Pick out an outfit and pack your child’s lunch the night before.
• Pack children’s backpacks ahead of time to ensure a proper fit. The backpack should not weigh more than 10% to 20% of your child’s body weight.
• Visit your kids’ school and/or classroom ahead of time.

No matter what grade they’re starting, helping children know what to expect with their new school routine can build confidence and calm their worries.   

Transporting children to and from school

Some children may be going to school for the first time, while others may be in higher education and starting to drive themselves. Regardless of their age or mode of transportation, it is important to ensure a safe commute by following these guidelines:

• Make sure younger children know their address and how to call a parent or close family member in case of an emergency.
• Teach children about crosswalks and street safety.
• Remind young drivers to wear a seat belt and remain alert.
• Ensure children that walk to and from school have a safe and familiar route, and consider establishing a walking buddy.
• Make sure children taking the bus know where to get on and off at.
• Ensure children biking to school wear a helmet and ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Communicate with school personnel about daily transportation plans and after-school programs.

If you have a child who is of age to be left home alone before or after school, consider installing smart locks or video doorbells, and ensure they know how to reach a trusted adult in case of an emergency.

For more information on transportation safety, check out the American Red Cross’s safety checklist.

Monitoring behavior throughout the school year

Parents and teachers are responsible for recognizing behavior and personality changes in their children and students as the school year progresses. Here are key behaviors to look out for:

• Overreacts to incidents.
• Dresses differently.
• Demonstrates withdrawal or detachment.
• Has unexplained bruises or marks on the body.

Behavioral changes can show up differently depending on the child, so it is important to regularly check-in and maintain open communication with their educators. Monitoring social media and online content can also help to flag indicators of behavior change.

School personnel are mandated reporters. All suspected incidents of abuse should be reported to ChildLine, which is available 24/7 at 1-800-932-0313.

Summer is not over yet! Enjoy the rest of this season while helping your children prepare to back to school. Start the year off safely and with confidence that will last throughout the year.