So my 5 year old has been complaining about the bus, actually crying some mornings about going to school. He says the bus is hot and long. In my neighborhood its a 40 minute bus ride and the school is only 7 minutes away! I think that its just bad routing, and just don’t get it. I actually watched the bus the other day pick up Aidan and then 10 minutes later drive by to pick up other kids! I am hoping its taking so long because its a new driver and school year, but I feel so bad for my little guy! I am so tempted to drive him, but I know if I do then he will want it everyday and with two other kids at home I don’t want to have to drive him if I don’t have to.
What do you do? As a new mom to a kindergartner taking the school bus, is 40 minutes average? Any tips to ease the bus ride or getting on the bus?!
Lisa McLinden says
I certainly agree that it sounds like very poor planning! Sadly, however, I think it’s more the norm than the exception. My daughter takes the bus as well, and what is a direct drive of 10 mins. takes upwards of 40 mins on the bus. With the various starts and stops, inclement weather, and the odd bus barfing, it can take even longer. Sadly, I’m not sure of the options? Good luck! I hope this situation gets easier for your lovely family!
Lisa @ Oh Boy Oh Boy Oh Boy says
we don’t have busing
Stephanie says
My son Is the last stop before school in the morning and the first dropped off in the afternoon. He is on the bus for about 15 minutes in the morning and closer to 25 in the afternoon. I am guessing the kids at the start of his route are on for 40-45 minutes. Too long in my opinion!
But get this. My neighbor’s son goes to the district’s preschool, a class for 3 & 4-year-olds with special needs. The bus ride home is AN HOUR. For little kids with special needs. When she called the district about it they said their policy is to “try” to ensure that no student rides for more than an hour each way. I think it’s outrageous. My neighbor picks him up rather than letting him ride for so long.
Kayla @ TheEclecticElement says
I unfortunately do remember those bus days and yes, it was a LONG ride. At least half an hour to 45 minutes which is why I brought a book everyday. I swear, I’d finish at least 2 to 3 books a week!
It can be pretty tough though 🙁
Cher says
Good to know were not alone in our school district! A book is a great idea when he’s a little bigger!
Teresa Young says
I would ask for an explanation from the school districts transportation department, just express your concern & what you observed.
My grandkids get picked up at 8:30AM for 9AM school start time. They get dismissed at 3:35 & get dropped off at 4:30 – almost an hour! Their school is 15 minutes away. The buses are extremely hot in summer! They get off the bus all sweaty & cranky!
I pick them up 2 days a week. If you can’t get the route adjusted, maybe there is someone in the area you can car pool with, or perhaps you can drive your son a few days a week.
Cher says
Our bus was awful in the heat, hopefully its not freezing in the winter! Driving him 2 days is a great idea, although I worry that he will want it everyday. My neighbors are actually calling so maybe I’ll wait and see if anything improves. Thanks for letting me know he’s not alone.