Back to school is upon us

It's that time of year again where the smell of school supplies fill the air and kids are desperately trying to sleep for just "five more minutes mom" before the dreaded bell goes off at eight in the morning.

With summer behind us and fall before us, regular routines are getting back to normal. Alberta RCMP is encouraging safe driving as roads begin to get more congested from buses and vacationers.

"With children returning to school, it's important for drivers and pedestrians to be extra cautious and to respect the rules of the road," said Supt. Rick Gardner, Alberta Traffic Sheriffs. "Everyone must be mindful of bus and crosswalk safety and understand the expectations within school zones."

Some important transportation safety tips to have a chat with your children about before back to school:

• If your child will be walking to school remind them to always walk on the sidewalk, if there is no sidewalk, walk facing the traffic. Make sure they are aware to look left and right before crossing the street as well as making eye contact with drivers. Remember to pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distracted walking.
• If your child will be biking to school, ride on the right side of the road with traffic and in a single file. Always come to a complete stop before crossing streets and walk your bike. Be sure to have a properly fitting helmet and if you can, wear something bright.
• When driving your child/children to school be sure to obey all the rules of the road, including speed limits. Make eye contact with children crossing the street and never pass a bus that is loading or unloading children.
• If you have a teen driver in your household, set a good example by driving the way you want them to drive.

Calgary Catholic school district has 10 helpful tips and tricks before heading back to the classroom.

1. Nutrition - Eating breakfast is really important to ensure your child is ready to learn at school. Healthy snacks and lunches are essential.
2. Set bedtime routine - Begin getting your child used to waking up earlier and going to bed at a set time.
3. Reduce fear of the unknown - To help your child get used to a new school, visit the school beforehand.
4. Positive outlook - Children look to mom and dad for cues. Maintain a positive outlook on the upcoming school year and your child will as well.
5. Open communication - Take the time to listen to your child's excitement or fears about starting the school year. Having a trusted adult to talk to can alleviate first day jitters.
6. Buy school supplies in advance - Having school supplies bought and ready to go is a great way to help a child feel excited and prepared for the first day. Label clothing, lunch bag, shoes and a backpack.
7. Practice with new clothes - For younger children, it is important to practice zipping up jackets, buttoning sweaters and putting on new shoes and backpacks
8. Be prepared - On the eve before school starts, layout an outfit and pack their backpack. Placing a note inside can bring a smile to your child on his or her first day.
9. Safety - Discuss who will be dropping off and picking up your child. Plan to have a spot to meet your child after school. If your child is walking, make sure to practice the route. If your child is riding the bus, make sure they know their bus number and when to get off.
10. Read a book - Read a story about the first day of school with your child.

The Breakfast Club of Canada will be re-opening its breakfast program this fall. In Cochrane, there are two schools that use the program. It provides a healthy start to a child's day by ensuring a full tummy during studies.

With 24 more programs opening in Alberta this year, the club is fundraising to continue to provide this service to schools. Costco and Walmart – the program's partner stores – will be accepting donations. From Sept. 9 to 15, donations are accepted at all 111 Costco locations across Canada and from Sept. 12 to Oct. 4 Walmart will be accepting donations across its 408 locations.

If you are interested in volunteering with the program, there are opportunities available. This would provide relief to regular volunteers throughout the year. Reach out to breakfastclubcanada.org for more information on how to do so.

Rocky View District Schools and Catholic Schools in Cochrane start school today.

Students that are new to the jurisdiction should be registered for their designated school through RVS' online registration system, SchoolEngage. If you are unsure of your child's designated school contact (403) 945-4125.

If your child will be enrolled in the Catholic school system, contact the school for registration. Holy spirit: (403) 500-2065, St. Timothy High School: (403) 500-2106.

So remember to tell your kiddos what Dr. Seuss said best: "You're off to great places, today is your day, your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!"