Getting your preschooler ready for the bus
Preschoolers are a sensitive social group that needs to be carefully introduced to the rules and complexities of a bus ride, even before they start using the school bus independently. Since many of them will use the bus regularly during elementary school, it is crucial to teach the youngest members of the community how to be respectful towards the bus drivers and other passengers, as well as how to stay safe. Besides teachers, parents also have an important role in explaining the social aspects of this everyday activity and leading by example.
Introduce the bus to the child
Many preschoolers are fascinated with buses and tend to get excited. The first step is to teach your child how to recognize the school bus and to explain its purpose. Another strong emotion children often face is the fear of being left behind on the bus, alone and unprotected. Make an effort to introduce your child to the bus driver, to start building rapport.
Explain safe behavior
Another key point you need to explain to your child is how to carefully cross the street after leaving the bus. It is crucial that your child always goes in front of the bus so that the driver can see the child at all times. Running around the bus must be discouraged in order to prevent accidents.
Teach the child to be patient
Riding a bus is a test of patience preschoolers often lack. Besides waiting in line for the bus and being considerate when entering the vehicle, your child needs to get accustomed to sitting still in order to stay safe during the bus ride. Another important point is to always be respectful towards the driver and other passengers by refraining from yelling and shouting. Take your child on an imaginary bus ride and show him or her what is correct behavior.
Play games
Teach your child several activities to fight boredom and reduce undesirable behavior. Play with your children while you’re driving in the car and show them how to pass the time. Search together for signs by the road, count cars or name items of a certain color. These are all great onboard games your preschooler can use to stay entertained until the end of the ride.
Colorado/West Equipment Inc. and Nebraska/Central Equipment Inc. are committed to providing quality buses along with unsurpassed service and parts support. The Company has delivered in excess of 5,500 new buses during its tenure. Our reputation remains strong with the Blue Bird product and aftermarket support.