With a new school year in its early stages, parents and schools are concerned with ensuring children's safety and well-being. Whether a child is heading to kindergarten or high school, parents may consider the following tips, provided by the Center for Safe Schools.

Parents should maintain open lines of communication with their child. Encourage the child to share concerns about safety, interactions with peers, or unusual incidents. Awareness of the child's feelings may help parents address issues promptly and offer guidance.

If a child walks or bikes to school, parents should help him or her plan a safe route that minimizes exposure to busy roads and dangerous intersections. Parents and children may practice the route together until children are comfortable navigating it independently. Children should be reminded to wait in well-lit areas, cross streets at designated crosswalks, and avoid distractions like headphones while walking near traffic.

Parents are encouraged to review personal safety guidelines with their children, regardless of the children's age. Parents may want to avoid using the term "stranger danger," as statistically, most child abductions are committed by someone known to the victim. Children should be given a list of trusted adults they can contact in an emergency.

Children with access to the internet should be educated about online safety. They should know how to protect their personal information, avoid sharing sensitive data, and recognize potential online threats. Guardians may consider installing parental control software if necessary.

Parents should ensure children know their full name, the parents' contact information, and emergency contact details. Children should memorize these details in case they need help and cannot access their phone.

Parents may want to discuss bullying with children and emphasize the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. If a child is bullied or witnesses someone else being bullied, the incident should be reported to a trusted adult.

The beginning of the school year likely includes a review of emergency procedures at the child's school. Parents can engage in a conversation with their children about emergency preparedness. Discussing scenarios, creating a plan, and emphasizing the importance of staying calm can empower children to respond effectively in unexpected situations.

As children embark on another school year, a combination of communication, education, and preparation can go a long way in creating a secure environment for children to thrive.

For school safety resources, visit http://www.centerforsafeschools.org.