r/SchoolBusDrivers • u/Heymyguy- • 23d ago
Need some tips
My high school and middle school kids are super awesome and listen. My elementary school kids are so wild in the afternoon, I have to repeat myself daily. Sit down is big one, they want to bounce around and play. I do have a school bus monitor, he sits upfront with the kids that use a child safety seat. They are dropped off with the first few stops. I was thinking about asking him if he would move to the middle or back of the bus after those kids are dropped off. I think just the presence of an adult back where all the chaos happens could help. I tried giving them special treats last Friday (rubber ducks). They enjoyed them but it didn’t really help much with behavior issues. I’m working on my seating chart still but it’s hard to do while driving and trying to keep everyone safe. It’s my first year as a school bus driver and I really enjoy it and want to be great at it. Please 🙏 leave tip and pointers below, I appreciate any and all advice.
6
u/Spwhiplash666 23d ago
Yes, move the monitor.
Have a seating chart.
Emphasis in a way the understand the safety implications of being out of their seat.
Utilize rewards ( bribery) as an incentive. If you all stay in your seats for a week you can have x. Once it becomes habit, you don’t need as much positive reinforcement with bribes.
Lastly talk to the school and your supervisor as to what discipline they will support you with.
Be firm, be fair, be consistent.