As we kick off the new school year, it’s important to make safety a top priority for our kids.

Whether they’re riding the school bus or sitting in the back seat of your car, understanding the importance of not distracting the driver is crucial for everyone’s safety.

Goofing Around on the Bus or in the Car? Think Again!

We know that kids get excited, especially when they’re with friends or heading off to school. But all that excitement can lead to goofing around, yelling, or playing in the car or on the school bus. While it may seem harmless, it can actually be quite dangerous. This behavior is called distracting the driver, and it can have serious consequences.

Why It’s Dangerous

When the driver is distracted, they can’t focus on the road. Imagine if the bus driver or the person driving the car has to turn around to tell you to stop goofing around—are they watching the road? What if a car in front of them suddenly stops? Those few seconds of distraction can lead to an accident.

Making the Car or Bus a Safe Space

The car or school bus should be a safe place for everyone inside and for others on the road. That means no yelling, no jumping around, and no distracting the driver. When kids understand that the driver needs to focus completely on the road to keep everyone safe, they’re more likely to behave in a way that supports that safety.

Talk to Your Kids About It

As parents and caregivers, it’s important to have a conversation with your kids about why they should never distract the driver. Explain that when they help keep the car or bus quiet and calm, they’re helping the driver do their job—and that job is making sure everyone gets to school and back home safely.

Let’s work together to make this school year a safe one by teaching our kids the importance of staying calm and quiet while in the car or on the bus.

When we all do our part, the road becomes a safer place for everyone. Remember, don’t distract the driver—they’re keeping you safe!