Your child’s first bus, train or metro trips

At what age can he borrow them on his own?

Some little ones take the school bus from kindergarten, and, according to national regulations, accompanying persons are not compulsory. But these situations are exceptional… For Paul Barré, “Children can start taking the bus or train around the age of 8, starting with the routes they know ».

Around 10 years of age, your offspring is in principle able to dissect a metro or bus map on their own and to trace their route.

Reassure him

Your toddler is likely to be reluctant to this new experience. Encourage him! Making the trip together for the first time reassures him and gives him confidence. Explain to him that if he feels lost, he can go see the bus driver, the train controller, or the RATP agent in the metro… but no one else! Like every time he leaves the house alone, it is forbidden to talk to strangers.

Taking transport is getting ready!

Teach him not to run to catch his bus, to wave to the driver, validate his ticket, stand behind the safety strips in the metro… During the journey, remind him to sit down or to stand by bars, and pay attention to the closing of the doors.

Finally, tell him the codes of good conduct: leave his seat to a pregnant woman or an elderly person, say hello and goodbye to the bus driver, do not leave his bag lying around in the middle of the aisle and also , do not disturb other passengers by playing crazy with little friends!

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