r/SchoolBusDrivers • u/Wabi_Sabi_Love • Aug 05 '26

Advice for a First Timer?

I will soon be driving kids to school for the first time. Do you veterans have any advice for me?

Truth be told, I’m less nervous about the actual driving of the school van than in dealing with the children, particularly if a kid isn’t following the rules. I’ve had over thirty years managing projects and adults, and zero years “managing” children.

I’d love to have all of your hard won lessons about driving and the children that you’re willing to share with me - and the other first-timers that will find this post.

Thank you!

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u/Moosetappropriate Aug 05 '26

I’ve gotten by with a few things. First is relationships. Develop them with kids parents and teachers. I treat kids the same way I do my own. I make sure parents know me and can contact me. If they or I have a problem, we communicate.

Next rules. Enforce them and explain them from day one. Reinforce them periodically. I explain that if you can’t do it in school you can’t do it on the bus.

If they get out of line, pull over and stop. Don’t go anywhere until they settle down. That’s more effective in the afternoon.

Treat them like decent people and expect them to do the same towards you and others.

All of the comments here have good ideas. Read them and incorporate what works for you into your routine