Would you let him?

smileybrea

CPS Technician
My son's preschool is taking a fieldtrip to the dentist...in a school bus. I've asked some of my local tech friends and the instructor I work with. They all agree he should be ok but I'm just not sure.

He's 4, 43" tall (all torso...he just outgrew the Radian) and runs between 41-43lbs.

I talked to an instructor who teaches the school bus certification and he said preschoolers need to be in a restraint but then said they need to be in a restraint until they would be big enough for a booster in order for the compartmentalization to work. I was hoping for a more definite answer regarding minimum size. Technically, he's big enough for a booster...

So...would you let him go?
 
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kater-tot82

New member
I would...especially for a one time field trip.

He is the size my DD was in kindergarten when she started riding the bus. And I didn't worry about her. My bigger concern was reinforcing the need to sit right in the bus seat and not be kneeling on it, turning around on it, etc.
 

jnamommy

New member
I have heard that compartmentalization works once they are the size of the average first grader. I don't know if that is true or not though.

However, I would still let him go as long as it is a full sized school bus. Buses are statistically safer. BUt like the pp said, just reinforce sitting properly in his seat.
 

wendytthomas

Admin - CPST Instructor
Staff member
Yup. I'd have no problem with it. It's a far better cry than the 15 passenger vans my daughters' school uses.

Wendy
 

smileybrea

CPS Technician
He's very calm and laid back and I have no worries that he'll sit properly. I guess I just need to let go a little. I logically know a school bus is very safe but still, as a mom, I think about the "what ifs". I know he'll have fun. Thanks!
 

Mommy!

Active member
I would for sure; and for what it's worth, our school board considers that children who weigh 40lbs or more can ride the big busses without belts (that compartmentalization is designed to work at that weight), below need car seats. I think the recommendation comes from Transport Canada (although I realize you are in the U.S!) :)

Sorry..I thought you just posted this today at 12am ish!
 
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smileybrea

CPS Technician
Thanks everyone! I let him go and he had so much fun! He told me he sat like a big boy like mommy said. His teacher confirmed he did awesome and helped his friends remember to sit right too! Proud mama..he's getting so big.
 

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