Transition to Kindergarten Parent Guides: How Will My Child Get to School?

Getting to school safely is important!

• Call the school if your child is going to be absent.
• Make sure the school has numbers where you can be reached.
• Teach your child how to contact you and keep that information in his/her backpack.
• Let your child know whom you have chosen as emergency contacts.

When your child rides the bus:

Michigan has no rules for kindergarten children who ride the bus. Children of all ages may ride the bus at the same time.

Information for parents:

• For safety, some schools provide home pick-up and drop-off for kindergartners. (This is not required.)
• Seat belts may or may not be provided. The law does not require them.
• Learn the bus schedule (both ways) for your child.
• Find out how you will know about school closings or changes in the schedule.
• Talk to the teacher and bus driver about any health issues or special traveling instructions for your child.
• If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), you will want to make sure all transportation needs are clearly defined.

If your child rides the bus, share these safety tips:

• Stand a safe distance away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
• Stay in your seat and listen to the bus driver.
• Keep all your body parts, lunch box, and backpack in the bus.
• Remain in your seat until the bus comes to a complete stop.

If you drive your child to school:

• Buckle up! The National Highway Safety Transportation Administration recommends children weighing 40-80 pounds sit in a booster seat.
• Have your child sit in the back seat to protect him/her from injury from airbag operation.
• Take off the backpack before buckling up. (When children wear their backpacks, they do not receive the proper head support in case of an accident.)
• Arrange with friends and family if you are going to be late picking up your child.
• Wear your seatbelt! It’s a great example.

If your child will be walking to school, teach him or her to:

• Always walk with friends.
• Stay on the sidewalk and NO shortcuts.
• Cross the street safely.
• Follow the direction of the crossing guard and school safety patrol.