Transition to Kindergarten Parent Guides: How Will My Child Get to School?
Source: Michigan Department of Education
Topics: Kindergarten Readiness, General Tips for Preparing for Kindergarten, Preparing Your Child for Back to School, Michigan
Topics: Kindergarten Readiness, General Tips for Preparing for Kindergarten, Preparing Your Child for Back to School, Michigan
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.
Reprinted with the permission of the Michigan Department of Education. © 2001-2007 State of Michigan
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