A Refresher On Back-To-School Safety Tips For Stoneham Students

A release from Stoneham Safety Officer Joseph Ponzo:

With the first day of school approaching all students, there are a few tips that both students and
parents should know.

If your child is a little uneasy about entering a new grade, new school, or is simply his/her first day ever, parents should remind their child that he/she is not the only student who is a bit uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers know that students are anxious and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible. Point out the positive aspects of starting school: It will be fun. He/She will see old friends and meet new ones.

Refresh their positive memories about previous years, when they may have returned home after
the first day with high spirits because he/she had a good time. Find another child in the
neighborhood with whom your youngster can walk to school or ride with on the bus. If you feel it
is appropriate, drive your child (or walk with them) to school and pick them up on the first day.

One thing to consider is backpack safety. Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps
and a padded back. Pack light and organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack
heavier items closest to the center of the back and realize that the backpack should never weigh
more than 10 to 20 percent of your child’s body weight. Always use both shoulder straps,
because slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. Consider using a rolling
backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load;
however always remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs and they may be
difficult to roll in snow.

When walking to school, make sure your child’s walk is a traveled in a safe route and always
cross the street where crossing guards are present. Try and make sure that your child
is wearing bright colored clothes, for it makes it more visible to drivers.

If your child likes to ride a bicycle to school, remind them to always wear a bicycle helmet, no
matter how short or long the ride. Tell them to ride on the right, in the same direction as auto
traffic and use appropriate hand signals. Respecting traffic lights and stop signs and
understanding the “rules of the road” will keep your child safe. Please keep these pointers in
mind and help make your child’s schooling experience a positive one.

Remember Safety First!