Teaching Children to wear seat belts and other safe driving habits reduces risks of injury

Day care centers and nursery schools in California have instituted an educational program for their students called “Bucklebear� which teaches the importance of safe passenger habits including seat belt use. The program emphasizes seat belt and safety seat use, back seat is the best seat, and desirable passenger behaviors that will not distract drivers. The “Bucklebear� curriculum utilized various mediums such as puppet play, films and various class activities to keep the children engaged. Studies found that after children completed the program their use of safety seat and/or seat belts increased approximately 22 percent. If children are taught these safety tips at an early age, it is hoped they will continue those habits throughout their lives and even help influence older family members to buckle up.