With the current COVID regulations in place, parents have made some changes in arrangements with their children regarding pick up from school. When making these arrangements, please ensure that you consider your child’s safety when crossing roads and how your child is supervised while they are waiting for you.
The preferred method of collecting students from school is via Kiss and Drop or travelling on buses. This allows school staff to supervise your children in case you are running behind.
Younger children especially require greater attention to ensure their safety during pick up time.
Here are some top tips for parents from the NSW Government to assist children make a safe walking trip:
1. Be alert and aware
Take note of the dangers you come across on your walk and bring them to your child’s attention. Point out dangers, such as vehicles coming out of driveways. Talk to your child about being alert in a road environment.
2. Hold hands
When on the footpath, at a crossing or in a car park always hold your child’s hand. It is advised to do this up to the age of at least 8 years old and closely supervise until at least the age of 10.
3. Choose a safe crossing
Lead by example and choose a safe place to cross the road. Explain why it is the safest place to cross.
4. Set a good example
Your child watches everything you do, so if you cross at the crossing they will too. It is also important to share these messages with other carers who may walk with your child to school.
5. Stop, Look, Listen, Think every time you cross the road.
Discuss this important road safety message. STOP! one step back from the kerb. LOOK! continuously both ways. LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic. THINK! whether it is safe to cross.
Practice makes perfect.
The more supervised practice your child can get the better.
Older children may be ready to make the journey to school independently. Before they take this step, observe if they are road safe and reinforce the road safety messages.
If you have any questions regarding school pick up, please don’t hesitate to contact the school.