Now that Labor day is over, it really is back to school season!

Whatever the age of our children, it's always a good idea to spend a few moments with them each day and remind them to stay safe. Here are a few tips we thought might help - we're parents too!

• Road safety - we've always taught them to look both ways before they cross.
• Remind them never to accept a ride from a stranger.
• Never accept candy from a stranger.
• When the school bus stops - always check for oncoming traffic before they cross.
• Remind your children when children walking to school, where there is no sidewalk to walk on the left side of the street, facing traffic.

And for us adults

• Always be on the look out around schools and playgrounds.
• Always watch your speed in these zones.
• If you see a school bus coming to a stop - do just that - STOP!!

Another important tip is to remind them that they shouldn't be on their cell phones, gaming devices or even have their ear-buds in while walking to school. Kids can totally zone out and forget the traffic dangers around them!

If your kids bike to school, helmets are a must - no matter how used they are to the route. However, when they're at school or in the playground, remind them to remove their helmet!. Helmets can get them them stuck in play equipment,or injure their playmates if they collide.

Have you checked out the way they wear their backpack and it's weight? The American Occupational Therapy Association recommends that a child’s backpack should have well-padded shoulder straps, and weigh no more than 10% of the child’s body weight.

These few simple tips will keep your little loved ones safe from harm during the school day, and arrive to the safety of your home once again!