Helping Students Feel Ready for the School Bus
For some students, riding the school bus is an exciting part of going back to school. For others, especially those riding for the first time or who may feel anxious about new experiences, not knowing what to expect can make the first day feel overwhelming.
One way families can help is by walking through the experience before the first ride.
First Student’s Student Services team has developed a series of social stories to help students become more familiar and comfortable with what riding the school bus will be like. Created with input from child psychologists and behavioral experts at leading children’s hospitals, these simple, visual stories walk students step by step through the bus ride, from getting ready and waiting at the bus stop, to riding to school and returning home at the end of the day.
What is a social story?
Social stories use simple language and visuals to help children understand what to expect in a new or unfamiliar situation. By reviewing the experience ahead of time, students can begin to visualize what will happen, learn the behaviors that will help keep them safe, and feel more prepared when it is time to ride.
While social stories can be especially helpful for students who experience anxiety, benefit from additional structure, or have unique support needs, they can be a useful tool for any child preparing to ride the school bus.
How to use these stories with your child
Before school begins, find a quiet time to sit down with your child and read through the story together. Talk about each step and give your child time to ask questions or share anything they may be worried about.
You can read the story more than once as the first day approaches. The goal is simple: make the experience feel more familiar so that when the school bus arrives, your child has a better idea of what to expect.
Riding the Bus to School
Follow along as a student gets ready, goes to the bus stop, boards the school bus and rides safely to school.
Download the Social Story:
English PDF | Spanish PDF | French PDF
Riding the Bus Home
Help your child understand what happens at the end of the school day, from boarding the bus at school to arriving safely back at their bus stop.
Download the Social Story:
English PDF | Spanish PDF | French PDF
Helping Every Student Start With Confidence
At First Student, we know a successful school day starts long before a student reaches the classroom. Helping students understand what to expect on their school bus can build confidence, reduce uncertainty, and help create a safer, more positive transportation experience.
Whether it’s your child’s first school bus ride or they simply need a little extra reassurance, we hope these resources help your family feel ready for the journey ahead.