On August 15th, schools in and around Castle Pines North have returned from summer break. Remember to drive the posted speed limits, slow down in school zones, and always stop for school buses. And, be sure to watch out for children walking and riding bikes to and from schools. Have a safe school year!

Send Kids Back to School Safely!

Castle Pines North parents may be nervous about sending a kindergartner off to his or her first day, sending a senior to finish his or her last year of high school, or maybe just anxious to get children out of the house. No matter the child’s age, parents have one thing in common… children’s safety.

Follow these simple tips to help your children stay safe when traveling to and from school:


Getting To & From School Safely:

• Map out a safe way for children to walk to school or the bus stop. Do a trial run.
  
• Teach children to follow traffic signals and rules when walking or biking.
  
• Explain the importance of using cross walks and listening to crossing guards.
  
• Encourage children to walk to school or to the bus stop with a sibling or a friend.
  
• Teach children to not talk to strangers, go anywhere with them, or accept anything from them without your permission.
  
• Help children memorize their phone number and full address.
  

Parents who drive children to school, be sure to follow the school’s procedures for dropping off and picking up, parking in the appropriate place, driving the correct direction(s), stopping for school crossing guards and crosswalks, and most importantly, driving the posted school-zone speed limit.

School Bus Safety:

• Have children arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes early.
  
• Tell children to wait for the bus on the sidewalk or on the grass and not in the street.
  
• Teach children to make sure the bus driver can see them before walking in front of the school bus.
  
• Be aware that bullying often takes place on the school bus, and let children know who to talk with if they see it happen.
  

Portions of this article are from The National Crime Prevention Council’s website.

For more information, visit www.mcgruff.org.