Ernst & Haas Management Co Blog

[caption id="attachment_1375" align="aligncenter" width="247" caption="The back-to-school season can be both exciting and stressful!"][/caption] It's well into the back-to-school season and there's a lot that can stress a parent out: the cost of clothing and supplies, how to get their child to and from school, making sure their immunizations are up to date, and more. But the more important thing every parent should set their sights upon are the specific things they can do to make this school year a safe one. Here are some safety tips for the 2011-12 school year: •Backpacks: When purchasing backpacks, choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back, or consider purchasing a rolling backpack for students who may have a heavier load. •Transportation: Encourage your child to wear their seatbelt when riding in the school bus or family car. If they're riding a bike to school, make sure they are equipped with the proper protective gear (i.e. helmet, elbow pads, knee pads, etc.), use appropriate hand signals when stopping and turning, and respect traffic lights and stop signs. If walking to school, make sure your child takes a safe route and that they are met with well-trained adult crossing guards at every major intersection. •Nutrition: Most school's regularly send schedules of cafeteria menus home. With this advance information, you can plan on packing lunch on the days when the main course is one your child prefers not to eat. Also, try getting your child's school to stock healthy choices such as fresh fruit, low-fat dairy products, water, and 100% fruit juices in the vending machines. •Homework Habits: Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework - offer a permanent workspace that provides privacy. Limit use of the TV and Internet during homework hours, and make sure to make yourself available to provide assistance. By making sure these four bases are covered, you and your child are guaranteed to have a successful school year!