As a new school year begins, mornings get busier, roads get busier — and the safety of your child on the school run becomes more important than ever. To help make the daily journey safer (and a little less stressful), here are six smart tips every parent should have on their back-to-school checklist.
1. Prep the Night Before
Mornings are chaotic enough without last-minute panics over missing shoes or forgotten lunches. Take the pressure off by organising school bags, uniforms, and packed lunches the night before. A calm start means less rushing, fewer mistakes — and a safer trip to school.
2. Park Smart, Drop Smart
It may be tempting to double-park at the school gate, but it’s more than just inconvenient — it’s dangerous. Double-parking blocks sightlines for other drivers and for children crossing the road. Take the extra minute to find a safe, legal spot. A little patience could prevent a serious accident.
3. Share the Road with Young Cyclists
More children are cycling to school, which means drivers need to stay extra alert. Watch carefully near driveways and parked cars where kids can suddenly appear. And before opening your car door, check your mirrors and use the Dutch reach — opening the door with the hand furthest away. This simple habit could prevent a collision.
4. Slow Down Around Schools
Excited kids don’t always think before they run. They can dart out between cars or off the footpath without warning. That’s why slowing down in school zones isn’t just a rule — it’s a responsibility. Remember, children find it hard to judge speed, so it’s on drivers to anticipate the unexpected.
5. Plan the Safest Route Together
If your child is walking or cycling, take time to plan the safest route — one with quiet streets, pedestrian crossings, and fewer cars. Walk or cycle it with them a few times before school starts, so they feel confident and know what to expect. Familiarity builds independence, and confidence builds safety.
6. Double-Check Those Car Seats
For younger children, car seats are only effective if they’re the right fit and properly installed. Yet shockingly, research shows that up to four in five car seats are fitted incorrectly. Take the time to double-check — it’s a small effort that could make a life-saving difference.
Back-to-school season is exciting, but it also comes with new routines and challenges. By planning ahead and staying safety-conscious, we can make sure the school run is smooth, calm, and above all — safe.
27 August 2025
