10 principles to teach children to go to school safely

Parents should note the following ways to minimize the dangers to children when going to school alone.

1. Teach children to walk in groups

Children often like to go to school in groups, which is good for them, of course make sure that you have fully instructed them on the rules of travel when going to school.

Children traveling in groups are always safer than traveling alone. Illustration photo.

Walk on the sidewalk when available or walk towards the road if there is no sidewalk. Children should be dressed in bright colors to increase their visibility, at least this will allow drivers/passengers to see them from a distance and avoid them if they are crossing the street incorrectly; or may notice that they need help.

3. Never be alone

Children under 9 should be accompanied by an adult to cross the street. Make sure your child understands that the safest place to cross the street is at a crosswalk, street corner or intersection. Teach your child that wandering the streets alone is not good for them; not only is there the risk of traffic but also the presence of strangers.

Children under 9 years old should be accompanied by an adult across the street.

4. Choose a safe route

Choose the safest route possible for your child. Avoid construction routes as much as possible to avoid delays or other safety hazards.

On the way to school, there should be at least a few safe places where children can stay or take shelter in case of bad weather or any sudden danger. The homes of friends, family, relatives along the route… are places where children can stop to get help in case of trouble.

Make sure these are people who know your child and who they themselves would consider a safe place to go. Of course, when your child goes to these places, there is always someone at home to pick them up; grandparents, aunts, etc.

6. Speak out about strange dangers

Make sure your child knows how to react when meeting strangers on their route. Always answer briefly and quickly leave, or know how to scream loudly when strangers act strangely, touch and grab. In addition, children need to be physically strong enough to run quickly when they feel danger is near.

Teach your child to speak out about strange dangers.

7. Always save emergency phone numbers

If your child carries a phone, make sure he or she knows how to call for emergency help. Numbers to include on speed dial include local emergency numbers, contact numbers, and anyone else who can help your child in an emergency if needed.

8. Prepare for seasonal weather conditions

Teach your child about seasonal hazards. Know where to take shelter when it rains, and use an umbrella when it is sunny. Your child should understand that it is never safe to cross or play in storm drains, sewer pipes, construction sites, etc.

Children should be taught to use umbrellas or seek shelter from rain or sun to protect their health.

9. Do not let children carry objects that are too heavy for them to carry to school.

Check the weight of your child's backpack, school bag, or purse when walking or going to school. A growing child should not be overloaded with a backpack that is too heavy for his or her body weight.

Check the weight of your child's backpack or school bag.

10. Prepare for change

When relocating, moving house or leaving to another city, parents should think about walking distance to their children's school when making buying and renting decisions.

According to PNVN