Walking to the bus stop with a tiny tot can be an emotional experience for both parent and child. It is just one of many firsts for a child starting a new school year. Boarding the big yellow vehicle can feel like an overwhelming way to begin a new year of learning, full of obstacles and challenges. Once a child climbs on board, there is a cacophony of chatter, laughing, talking, and generally loud behavior. There are new social situations to navigate without the supervision of adults. For kids are feeling a bit nervous, here are some tips about riding a school bus that will prepare them.
Tips for Riding the School Bus
A school bus is so much more than just a mode of transportation. When kids walk up the steps to board, they enter a tight space with a code of social conduct that can be scary and overwhelming. There are lots of things parents can do to turn the experience into a positive one for their kids. Reading children's books about buses is a good place to start. Here are some additional tips about riding the school bus for you to share with kids who have jitters.
(1) Find an old friend or make a new one.
Riding is a whole lot more fun with the comfort of a loyal friend along for the ride. Pair up with a mate at the bus stop or seek out the company of another kid sitting alone on the bus. Having just one friend is enough to turn a lonely ride into an opportunity to laugh and chat before the school day begins.
(2) Stay away from the mean kids.
There is always at least one bully on every bus. The best advice is to stay away and avoid interacting with the mean group if at all possible. Of course, if your child witnesses another child who is a victim of the bullies, taking action is the right thing to do. But sometimes it's easiest to avoid these kinds of kids altogether choose a seat far away. Read the best children's books about bullying to help kids recognize this type of behavior and give them the tools to handle it.
(3) Sitting alone is perfectly okay.
Sitting quietly and looking out the window is a good way for kids to make that transition between home and school. A child who has the confidence and self-assurance to choose being along sometimes is off to a good start in life. Also, for some kids, constant socialization can feel overwhelming. Mentally checking out of the chaos can be a healthy and necessary habit.
(4) Always make room for someone new.
If your kid is friendly, self-assured, and outgoing, riding the school bus is just another outlet for having some fun. Encourage your social butterfly to welcome some of the shy and quiet kids into their fold. Save a seat for a new kid or invite a more timid child to sit nearby. A little invitation can go a long way in brightening another child's day.
(5) Remind your child to follow the rules.
There is no one to supervise what is going on behind the driver's back.This is a great opportunity for kids to practice good behavior without an adult watching. Staying seated, not leaving trash behind, and talking quietly are just some of the many important rules. Parents need to talk to their kids about the importance of these guidelines.
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