Elementary schools across Delaware will soon open for the 2026-27 school year, and for many families, the start of a new school year means adjusting to earlier mornings, new routines and busy school drop-off and pickup schedules.
As elementary school students prepare to return to the classroom in the coming weeks, parents may want to take a few extra steps to help keep children safe at school and on the way there.
Here are a few safety tips and practices parents can keep in mind and implement for their new elementary school student.
The American Red Cross recommends that parents take time to review basic safety habits with children before the school year begins.
Younger students should know important information such as their home address, phone number, how to contact parents or guardians, how to reach another trusted adult and when to call 911. Parents should also remind children not to accept rides from strangers and to speak up if they feel unsafe.
Families should also discuss how children will get to and from school safely. The Red Cross advises students who walk to school to use sidewalks and crosswalks when available, while bus riders should stay away from the curb until the bus stops and avoid walking behind a bus.
Young bicyclists should wear helmets, and parents driving children to school should ensure seat belts, car seats and booster seats are used correctly.
The National Education Association encourages families to take an active role in preparing children for a safe and successful school year.
In addition to reviewing transportation plans and emergency contacts, parents can talk with children about school expectations, familiarize themselves with school safety procedures and maintain open communication with teachers and school staff, as safe and supportive school environments play an important role in helping students learn and thrive.
SchoolSafety.gov also recommends that families review school emergency procedures, keep contact information up to date and stay informed about safety resources available through their child's school. Experts say strong communication between schools and families can help students feel more prepared and confident as they return to the classroom.
Parents looking for additional school-safety information can review resources from the American Red Cross, SchoolSafety.gov and their local school district before classes begin.
School officials also encourage families to make sure emergency contact information is current and to review transportation, pickup and dismissal plans before the first day of school.
Damon C. Williams is a Philadelphia-based journalist reporting on trending, breaking and service-related topics across the Mid-Atlantic region for the USA Today Network.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Back-to-school safety tips parents should know for elementary school