Essential Back‑to‑School Safety Tips SAFEGUARD YOUR STUDENT
Football season is underway, and many Americans will start spending their Saturdays and Sundays tailgating in stadium parking lots. It doesn’t matter if you’re going to an NFL or college game; tailgating is a great way to spend time with your friends and family before the big game. While many tailgates consist of adult activities like drinking alcohol and blasting loud music, many prefer to make it a family affair. If you plan to have kids at your tailgate, you need to ensure they have everything they need to have fun. Here are a few ways you can help your kids make the most of their day at the tailgate! Bring kid-friendly snacks and drinks. The average tailgate lasts a few hours, and most people enjoy at least one meal during that time frame. While most tailgate foods are simple appetizers and easy-to-make dishes, ask your kids or any kids attending if they want anything specific. Fill one of your coolers with sliced fruit and juice boxes to ensure your kids have a healthy food option and child-friendly drinks. Plan a few different activities. Your kids will get bored if there’s nothing to do at the tailgate besides listening to pregame coverage and talking to others. Invest in cornhole boards or other games, and see if someone in your group is comfortable with face painting. It doesn’t have to be extensive, but having a few kid-friendly activities prepared will keep boredom at bay. Encourage your kids to show support for their team. Whether you’re a fan of the home or away team, you and your kids should wear the right colors to show your support. Let your kids pick out a shirt, jersey, hat, or other team-affiliated apparel to help them get involved. Finally, don’t forget about your child’s need for a nap. Be sure to bring pillows and a blanket for them, and set up a comfortable spot for them to rest when needed. Doing so will allow everyone to enjoy the upcoming game to the fullest. Score Big With Kid-Friendly Tailgates
As the summer sun fades and the crisp autumn air rolls in, it’s time for students to head back to school. While this season brings excitement and new opportunities, it also comes with potential risks. We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help parents, guardians, and students navigate the back-to-school season safely, ensuring a smooth transition from lazy summer days to bustling school corridors.
The road to safety starts at home. Before the first bell rings, discuss safety measures with your children. Create a family emergency plan, including designated meeting spots and emergency contacts. Teach your kids to call 911 and what information to provide in an emergency. Additionally, ensure the school has up-to-date contact information for your family. Navigate the school commute carefully. Safety should be a top priority whether your child walks, bikes, or rides the bus to school. For walkers and bikers, emphasize the importance of using sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes. Teach them to look both ways before crossing streets and to avoid distractions like headphones or mobile devices while en route. If your child takes the bus, review bus stop etiquette and safety rules, such as staying seated while the bus is in motion and keeping the aisles clear. Lighten the load. Overloaded backpacks can lead to back pain and poor posture. We recommend choosing a backpack with padded straps and multiple compartments to distribute weight evenly. Teach your child to pack smartly, placing heavier items closer to the back and lighter items in front. The backpack should weigh no more than 10%–15% of your child’s body weight. Take playground precautions. Recess is a time for fun and physical activity but can also be a hotspot for injuries. Encourage your child to use playground equipment properly and to be aware of their surroundings. Remind them to take turns, avoid rough play, and report damaged equipment to a teacher or supervisor. As we embark on this new school year, let’s prioritize safety. By implementing these tips and fostering open communication with our children, we can create a secure environment that allows them to focus on learning and growing. Remember, a safe student is a successful student. Let’s work together to make this school year the safest one yet!
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