Stacks of notebooks, colorful folders, crayons, pencils, and many other school supplies are currently being stocked in department stores.

It could only mean one thing—the back-to-school season is back in session.

Yes, schoolyards will soon be open and the kiddos will be heading back to the classrooms.

But before you start shuffling the kids back onto the school bus, consider these tips to keep them safe this school year.

1. Be prepared for updated school guidelines and regulations
With the Delta variant of COVID-19 running rampant in many West Virginia counties, it’s important to keep up-to-date with your school’s board on guidelines for the school year. Some school boards are opting for mask mandates for all students and staff, while others are not. If you’re unsure where your school district stands, reach out to board members or visit the county’s school board website. With the uncertainty of the coronavirus and its variants, classrooms could look similar to last year’s school year. So, it’s important to be prepared for any sudden changes that may occur so you are not caught off guard.

2. Prepare your children for school bus safety
Make a habit of arriving at the bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled arrival of the bus. Stress to your children to stay out of roadways and avoid excessive horseplay while waiting for the bus. Also, teach your children to be respectful to the bus driver and other students on the bus. Blocking the driver’s blind spots and distracting them is dangerous for everyone on the bus and on the road. Also make sure your child(ren) knows to stay in their seat until the bus has come to a full stop.

3. Be aware of school zones
When you’re driving your children to the school or to the bus stop, be on the lookout for school zone signals and ALWAYS obey the speed limits. Slow down when entering a school zone and watch for pedestrians crossing streets. Always stop for school busses that are loading or unloading children—it’s the law. Be alert as children may dart into the street without looking. If you have a child who is driving to school themselves, teach them—along with the other road rules—not to text or be on their phone at all while driving. Make sure other passengers are not distracting to the driver or other drivers on the road, as well.

4. Teach your little ones playground safety
Recess is the highlight of most kids’ school days. Teach your kids ways on how to protect themselves while taking a break from schoolwork. Make sure your child knows who the supervisor on duty is and tell them to go to that person if any mishaps occur (bullying, falling, etc.). Also, make sure your child’s school has your contact information on hand in case something happens during recess.

Back-to-school time can be a stressful time for parents/guardians, students, teachers, and other school staff. Make it a great—and less stressful—school year by protecting your children with these helpful tips from the providers at St. George Medical Clinic.