How do I Prevent Problem Behavior on a School Bus?

Children with behavior issues present a real problem for school bus drivers. Behavior problems on the school bus are not just annoying; they can become a serious safety issue for everyone on the bus. It is difficult for bus drivers to stop behavior once it has started, and it is not always possible to stop the bus every time there is an issue. Preventing problem behavior is essential to ensuring everyone's safety.

Instructions

    • 1
      Remind children of the rules daily to reinforce positive behavior on the bus.

      Review the bus rules with children who have behavior problems. Children with known behavior problems need to be reminded of the rules each day before they board the bus. Phrase the rules in simple language and print them on laminated note cards. Require children with behavior issues to carry these with them as constant reminders. Use positive instead of negative language when writing and explaining the rules, such as "sit in your seat" and "keep all items inside your backpack." Positive rules help children know exactly what is expected of them instead of a list of things they cannot do.

    • 2
      Have children sit where they can be seen by the driver.

      Assign seats to the children who have behavior problems so they are in the front area of the bus, in view of the driver at all times. Separate the children so those with behavior issues are either not sitting next to each other, or sitting in a seat by themselves. When multiple children are causing behavior problems, or it is not possible to seat children by themselves, assign seats to all children on the bus to help minimize the problem of copycat behavior.

    • 3
      Keep the backpack near the driver to prevent problems.

      Remove personal belongings from children with behavior issues. Require children with behavior problems to keep everything inside their backpacks when riding the bus. Keep the childrens' backpacks at the front of the bus near the driver if backpack items continue to be a problem. Additionally, have the child empty his or her pockets before boarding the bus. When there are multiple children with issues or this is not possible, another alternative is to not allow those children to bring items on the bus.

    • 4
      Talk to the child's parents and teachers about alternative suggestions.

      Communicate problem behaviors with the school and parents. Children with behavior problems on the bus most likely have problems at school and at home as well. Talk with the child's teacher and parents to come up with alternative solutions and suggestions. Depending on the nature and extent of the child's behavior problems, a different bus route with fewer kids may be necessary for the child to succeed on the school bus.

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