Scenario 1: Car Talk

Julie is a very compassionate staff member in your program. One of the families in your program recently lost their car. The parents are having trouble bringing the children to your program. Julie just confided in you that she has been secretly picking the children and their mother up in her own vehicle. She has been driving them to and from the program in her own vehicle.

1. Is this a problem?
   Yes, this is a problem.  Staff should not transport children in their own vehicles. Even though the mother is present in the vehicle, Julie still represents the program. This presents a liability for Julie and the program.

    
2. What would you say to Julie?
   Remind Julie of your program’s policy about transporting children in personal vehicles. Help her find community resources that could help the family find transportation solutions. Connect the family with family advocates or other community resources for help.

    

Scenario 2: On the Bus

Your friend and co-worker, Monica, talked with you after work today. She is leading a field trip next week. She is very concerned that one of the children, Leslie, will have a hard time on the bus. Leslie is very active. Monica thinks she will not be able to keep Leslie safe on the bus. Her parents say that she has hated riding in vehicles since she was a tiny infant. Leslie is in constant motion in your program, and you expect the bus will be no different. She also has a difficult time following directions.

3. What do you suggest to Monica?
   Begin teaching Leslie about bus safety now. Develop bus safety rules and teach them to the children. Practice role playing the rules. If possible, practice getting on and off the bus in the days before the trip. Recognize positive behavior: create a “Perfect Passenger” award to encourage Leslie’s safe behavior. Recruit volunteers, perhaps Leslie’s own parents, to help keep children safe on the trip.