September is Transit Month, and there is a long list of fun events you can participate in to celebrate. Parents and students can celebrate Transit Month by trying out new ways to get to school as they ease into the new school year.

We’ve got three tips for walking, rolling, or taking public transit to school for the first time.

Find the helpers

Over 300 elementary, middle, and high schools in Alameda County participate in the Safe Routes to Schools program. Many parents are involved in helping youth get to school safely on active and shared transportation, so it’s easy to find friends to share a ride with.

Plan your route

Riding the bus is fun, and advance planning can make it stress-free. Google Maps or an app like Transit or Citymapper can help you plot your route on transit and figure out when to leave to get to school on time. 

Did you know that youth and other community group members qualify for a discounted transit fare? Visit the Clipper Card discount webpage or visit a Clipper Card location to learn more.

The Safe Routes to Schools Travel Training curriculum gives students information on how to get Student Transit Passes and Youth Clipper Cards and helps them understand how to ride the bus safely around town.

Make it fun!

Here’s the secret about public transportation: it’s hecka fun! Riding the bus or train is a great chance to read a book, listen to music, catch up with friends, or watch the world roll by. And walking to the bus stop or train station is an amazing opportunity to slow down and learn about your neighborhood. What flowers are blooming now? How many birds can you count on your walk? Where are there trees with lemons or fruit on them?

What suggestions do you have for taking transit to school? Share them with us on social media.