Parents across England have had to get their children prepared and back to school after what has been an extended summer holiday for many.

With large numbers of children being out of the ‘school run routine’ since mid-March, it is a good time to remind them of how to stay safe when going to and from school to avoid accidents.

Peak times for under 16s to be seriously injured or killed as pedestrians, coincides with the times that children are on their way to or from school.

The following are key points worth remembering:

• Road Safety. If your children have not left the house much over the last few months, then they may need reminding about road safety. If they usually walk themselves to school then it may be wise to walk with them once and remind them about sensible places to cross, checking both ways and not walking too close to the kerb.

• Do not Rush. It can be difficult for both parents, carers and children to get back into the flow of getting to school each morning, particularly after such a long period at home. Set alarms a little earlier and try to have school clothes and bags organised the night before to avoid rushing in the morning. Distracted children running to school or parents driving in a hurry can be fatal.

• Bike Safety. Many children cycle to school. Now is a good time to check their bikes over to ensure they are in good working order and make sure that helmets and protective equipment still fit. A reminder on how to cycle safely to school may be required including things like signalling and road position.

• Be Seen. As September passes the mornings can become dark and foggy and children are more difficult to be seen by drivers. With school uniforms and coats tending to be darker colours, it is a good idea to use reflective bands or jackets for children walking or cycling to school. Especially for those who attend after school clubs who are travelling home later in the day.

• Being Independent. It can be daunting for parents who have children moving up to senior school or starting to be more independent when it comes to getting themselves around. It is a good idea to do a test run if your children will be using a bus to get to school for the first time so that they are confident with which stops to get off at and understand how to behave on public transport.

• Be Aware. It is important for children to concentrate and be aware of dangers whilst travelling to school. Wearing headphones, looking at their phones or messing about with friends can cause them to become distracted and less aware of their surroundings resulting in them failing to see or hear cars approaching.

• Safe Zones. It is important to teach your children safe places to walk, the best routes to take and any paths or roads to avoid. It is also worth checking that your children know where to go or who to contact if they have any problems on their journey to or from school.

• Face Masks. In England, children under the age of 11 are exempt from wearing face coverings, however, it is worth keeping up to date with the latest guidelines. Children over 11 who use public transport to get to school will need to wear an approved face covering. Check what your child’s school’s policies are on covid-19 measures.

Schools, parents, and children all have a role to play when it comes to getting to school safely and prepared for the day ahead.

For further resources please visit:

Green Cross Code: https://www.roadwise.co.uk/schools/using-the-road/green-cross-code/

Cycling to School: http://www.brake.org.uk/facts-resources/21-resources/530-cycling-to-school

Other Articles You May Be Interested in Reading:

6 Signs That You May Have a Personal Injury Claim

What To Do If You Are In a Road Traffic Accident

Back to School From 2 Separate Homes: A Guide For Separated Parents

The contents of this article are for the purposes of general awareness only. They do not purport to constitute legal or professional advice.  The law may have changed since this article was published.   Readers should not act on the basis of the information included and should take appropriate professional advice upon their own particular circumstances.