This year, I am now supporting two schools during the week. I am at one school for one day and one school for four days. I have supervision duty at both schools, and it was one of these supervision duties that inspired this post.
Bus Drop-Off
At one of my schools, I meet the two busses during the morning drop-off time. Both bus drivers are always so friendly and happy, but it’s one of these amazing bus drivers who has me thinking more about self-regulation, co-regulation, and the role that we play in both.
A Bus Dance Party
As I was waiting with the students that came off the bus, one of the kindergarten students asked if they could have a “bus dance party” on the way home. This bus only has three students not in kindergarten, and many of the kindergarten students are in their first year of school. The bus driver told me that some find the transition hard in the morning and then they’re exhausted at the end of the day. What helps? A “bus dance party.” She has taught them how to do some sitting dances, as they move to some of their favourite music on her radio. She’s heard feedback from them about the songs that they enjoy, and the movement seems to make all of the kids happy as they arrive at school and eager for something fun to do on their way home.
Considering Differences
This bus driver though realizes the important “self” component of Self-Reg. What works for one child, might not work for all… especially all of the time. She has taken this into consideration as she considers the volume of the music, the use of headphones for those that do not want the extra noise, and even the addition of some cuddly toys to make other children feel better on their bus ride in. She told me that some children ask for these different options, and she chooses to provide them for others — recognizing what they might need at the time and how she can support them.
Personalized Goodbyes
With only being at this school once-a-week, I’m still learning the names of all of the students. This bus driver though is far ahead of me. Not only does she know all of their names, but she also knows how they love to be acknowledged. As they leave the bus, she will say, “goodbye” to some, offer hugs to others, and provide fist bumps and high-fives for a few more. The kids have told her what they like, and she gives each of them the special “goodbye” that they need to have a successful day. Adding in their names to these goodbyes is even more wonderful. We know that Self-Reg starts with relationships, and she’s definitely established some great ones here.
Caring Adults Are Everywhere
Years ago, our Board focused a lot on “caring adults.” We wanted all children to have someone that they know that they can always go to and someone that they know will always be there to support them. We know that our schools are full of caring adults, but this bus driver experience reminded me that these adults extend to Board employees outside of the school building. These little conversations each morning helps me know …
- who might be having a more challenging day,
- what makes different children feel better,
- and how we can support different children at school.
I’m so fortunate for this “caring adult,” and the positive impact she’s had on these bus students each day. What are some of your “caring adult” stories? What can we learn from our interactions with these different people? Last year, bus duty was stressful, but this year, I’m finding joy in my bus duty experiences … and I think this driver is making a big difference.
You may also be interested in our free 6×6 video series which explores how every person a child meets during their school day (including bus drivers) can have such a huge impact.
14 Comments
We should be more caring and considerate to others as we may not know what others are going through. By taking the time to be more understanding we may pick up on what might work to help others.
This is such a great point, Tan! I wonder how we might remember to do this more frequently. How might we support others in doing so?
Aviva
I drove School bus for 25 years before I entered the School system and it was always important for me to say good morning to every student by name. I always thought of it as no matter how bad a students morning could or has been a smile and personal good morning always brought a smile. At the end of the day I would say ” have a goodnight or weekend” and I think it help support them in having a better day. I always believed that because I was the first person and last person they seen on their school day I needed to make them feel important and special. Many of the parents told me that they were so happy that their child felt safe with me and that I made them feel like they were part of my family.
Debbie, this is so fantastic to hear! You remind us that greeting kids can have a big impact on how they feel. Thanks for sharing your story with us!
Aviva
I was part of a school piolet project to build moral and one of the things we did was greet every student when they arrived on the bus It made a huge difference in the overall school atmosphere. Students were starting to greet other students in the hall and start conversations with people they didn’t know.
Thanks for the comment, Suzanne! Did you greet all students in the same way or did the greetings vary depending on the child? I would love to hear more. I think that these connections matter.
Aviva
A very nice article, showing how small caring actions make a big difference. The bus driver understands each child’s needs and builds strong connections. It reminds us that self-regulation grows through supportive relationships, not just from teachers but from everyone around.
Thanks for your comment, Nikita! You are making me think a lot about “caring adults” at school and how we can support all of these different relationships. Are there any other examples of this that you have seen?
Aviva
Self-Reg starts with relationships and people around us make it happen if we are able to think in a way that What works for one child, might not work for all. we need to be mindful about it.
Thanks Baljit! This is such a wonderful point. Do you have some examples of this from the classroom or home? I would love to hear more.
Aviva
This article made me reflect on how important it is to form a connection with people. As teachers, connecting with our students gives us the peace of mind to approach each child with great wisdom
Thanks Magali! What are some different ways you help form these connections with kids? I would love to hear more.
Aviva
For sure it is important how you connect with children at school. With a calm smiley face, you can make them trust you and refer to you when they need your support as an adult who cares for them. So, we should find our way of connecting with the students.
Thanks Sara! I agree. I wonder about different ways that different people connect with kids. What are some ways that people find work well for them?
Aviva