Back-to-School Safety Basics

As back-to-school season approaches, the excitement of new beginnings is in the air. While this can be a thrilling time for your child, it also brings a set of worries for parents about their kids’ safety outside the home. To ease this transition and help provide peace of mind, we've compiled a few essential back-to-school safety tips to help prepare your child for a safe and enjoyable school year.

Backpack Safety Essentials

The humble backpack is more than just a place to keep books; it's also a daily load your child must carry to and from school. Depending on your child’s age and the type of school they attend, they may also have to carry their backpack around between classes. When shopping for backpacks, consider each bag’s size and design relative to your child’s body. Look for a backpack with comfortable shoulder straps and ample padding. Wheeled backpacks may be a good option for students who must carry heavy loads, but be sure to check with your child’s school to ensure that wheeled backpacks are permissible.

Staying Cool and Hydrated

With the joy of summer extending into the school season, it’s crucial to protect your children from the heat. Dress them in light, breathable clothing and ensure that they have layers in case their classrooms are chilly. If your child has a field trip or special outside activity coming up, check with their teacher to see if you can send them to school with extra sunscreen for the day. Many teachers will also allow students to carry a water bottle with them throughout the day. If possible, select an insulated bottle that can keep water cold.

If you’re planning to drive your children to and from school rather than having them ride the bus, take a moment to review our blog on car heat safety awareness. Britax supports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Look Before You Lock” campaign, emphasizing the importance of checking the back seat of your car every time you park to prevent the risk of heatstroke.

Pedestrian Safety

Take some time to educate your children on safe pedestrian practices: stopping at the curb, looking both ways, and crossing the street only when it’s safe. Emphasize the importance of using crosswalks and listening to crossing guards.

School Bus Safety

If your child is going to ride the bus, go over basic bus safety rules with them: never run around the bus stop or go into the street while waiting for the bus, never walk behind a bus, always wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before approaching, and always board the bus carefully while using the handrail. Emphasize the importance of listening to the bus driver and staying seated.

Awareness Around Strangers

Instruct your child on the importance of not interacting with or accepting rides from strangers. Help them memorize their home address and your cell phone or work number in case of emergencies. Role-play various scenarios to reinforce how they should respond if approached, keeping the guidance clear but not frightening.

If your child’s school has an approved pickup list for your child, be sure to review this list before the school year starts and update it if needed.

A Community of Care

Preparing your child with these back-to-school safety tips is a fantastic way to help ensure their well-being and create a community where every child is looked after. We welcome you to share your own back-to-school safety tips with us on social media. Your insights can be a valuable resource for other parents navigating this significant milestone.

At Britax, our commitment extends beyond providing safe travel gear for your children. We aim to be a partner in your parenting journey, offering support and advice for all of life’s adventures. By preparing your child with these foundational safety practices, you can feel confident that they’re equipped to navigate their school days securely and happily.