As families prepare for another school year, ensuring children's safety and well-being is important. Whether a child is heading to kindergarten or high school, the following safety tips are offered.

Parents or guardians should encourage their children to share with them any concerns about safety, interactions with peers, or unusual incidents. When the adult knows what is going on and how the child is feeling, issues can be addressed promptly. Parents may also want to research how children can report safety concerns, particularly through anonymous reporting tools available by their schools.

Parents of children who walk or bike to school can help their kids plan safe routes that minimize exposure to busy roads and dangerous intersections. Parents and kids can practice the route together until children are comfortable navigating it independently. Adults should remind kids to wait in well-lit areas, cross streets at designated crosswalks, and avoid distractions like headphones while walking near traffic.

Parents should review personal safety information with their children, regardless of kids' ages. Parents should be careful using the term stranger danger, as statistically, most child abductions are committed by someone the child knows. Children should be given a list of trusted adults they can contact in an emergency.

Children with access to the internet should be educated about online safety. They should be taught to protect their personal information, avoid sharing sensitive data, and recognize potential online threats. Parents may consider installing parental control software on their children's electronic devices.

Parents should make sure children know their full name, the parents' contact information, and another emergency contact's details. Children should be encouraged to memorize these details in case they need help and cannot access their phone.

Parents are advised to discuss bullying with their children and emphasize treating others with kindness and respect. Children should be encouraged to report any bullying incidents to a trusted adult, whether the child is a victim or a witness.

The beginning of the school year will likely include a review of emergency procedures at children's schools. Parents should talk with their kids about emergency preparedness to help ensure their safety. By discussing scenarios, creating a plan, and emphasizing the importance of staying calm, adults can empower children to respond effectively in unexpected situations.

As children embark on another school year, prioritizing their safety is paramount. A combination of communication, education, and preparation can go a long way in creating a safe learning environment for children to be successful.

For more information, visit http://www.centerforsafeschools.org.