08/26/2026
🎒 A new school year brings new routines. It can also be an important opportunity to think ahead about safety. Here are 5 back-to-school safety planning tips to keep in mind—for yourself, your children, or someone you care about.
1) Plan for safe communication: Identify safe ways to communicate with your children, school staff, and trusted supports
2) Update school emergency contacts: Make sure the school has current contact information and knows who is authorized to pick up your child. If there are safety concerns involving a parent or caregiver, talk with the school about what information they need to help keep your child safe.
3) Review privacy and technology settings: Check what information is being shared through school apps, social media, location services, and devices. Talk with children about keeping personal information, schedules, and locations private.
4) Identify safe people and places: Help your child identify trusted adults at school and in the community they can turn to if they feel unsafe. Know where you can go and who you can contact if you need support.
5) Make a plan—and keep it flexible: Safety plans can change as circumstances change. Review your plan regularly and make adjustments based on new routines, school schedules, transportation, or changing safety concerns.
You deserve support. Safety planning is personal, and you don't have to do it alone. Reach out to a live advocate 24/7, 365 days a year by calling our helpline at 1-800-537-6066. Services are free and confidential.
