Topic: Accessibility, Inclusion
Activity Type: Discussion, Thought Starter, Critical Thinking and Motor Skills
Grades: Kindergarten – Grade 3
Duration: 30-35 minutes. Duration may depend on how detailed children want to be.
Students will learn about the importance of accessibility and inclusion in public transit. They will understand what accessibility and inclusion means and how these concepts relate to riding the bus. The lesson will highlight why it is crucial for everyone in the community, including people with disabilities, seniors, parents with strollers and those who may not drive, to have access to safe and welcoming public transportation. Students will engage in activities that promote social awareness and responsible decision-making, contributing to a more inclusive community.
Kindergarten – Grade 1
Discuss the following in your class.
Introduction
Accessibility and inclusion are important on the bus because they make sure that everyone can ride safely and comfortably. This means that people with disabilities, older people and parents with strollers can use the bus just like everyone else. When the bus is welcoming for everyone, it helps us all feel included and happy. It also means that everyone can get to the places they need to go, like school, parks and shops. By making the bus a place for everyone, we show that we care about each other and want to help everyone in our community.
Show your students this video to better explain the concept of courtesy seating on public transit buses.
Have a discussion with your students to identify and understand smart choices and behaviours on the bus through interactive scenarios. After saying each scenario, ask them to say out loud if it’s a “Good Idea” or a “Bad Idea” or do a simple thumbs up or thumbs down.
Discuss each answer briefly, explaining why it is a good idea or a bad idea and how being a good BusReady Bus Buddy emphasizes accessibility and inclusion.
Optional: Act out these scenarios in class!
Scenarios
| Good Idea | Bad Idea |
| Offering your seat to someone who uses a wheelchair or has difficulty standing. Why? It’s kind and helps others feel included. | Blocking the aisle by putting your backpack in the middle of the walkway. Why? Other riders may trip on your bags, causing them to fall and get hurt! |
| Letting someone with a baby stroller on or off the bus first. Why? Because the adult has a stroller, it may be harder for them to find a seat, or make their way off the bus. | Leaving garbage on the floor or seats of the bus. Why? A dirty bus makes the space unpleasant for other riders. It’s our responsibility to keep the bus clean as best we can when we ride the bus. |
| Speaking politely and using kind words with all passengers. Why? Being kind is cool, makes you a good friend and makes you a great BusReady Bus Buddy. | Talking loudly or making loud noises while you’re on the bus. Why? It’s important to be quiet so the driver can focus on the road, and so the riders can relax during their ride. |
| Waiting patiently for someone who uses the accessibility ramp to exit before you get on the bus. Why? Giving people time and space to exit the bus safely is a kind thing to do. | Running down the aisle of the bus. Why? Running down the aisle isn’t safe because you could trip and hurt yourself or other riders. |
Have your students draw themselves plus anyone who they think might need courtesy seating while on the bus.
Once finished, consider exploring the virtual tour of a real BC Transit bus on our website to help children cognitively situate themselves on the bus.
Grade 2-3
Discuss the following in your class.
Accessibility and inclusion are important on the bus because they make sure that everyone can ride safely and comfortably. This means that people with disabilities, older people and parents with strollers can use the bus just like everyone else. When the bus is welcoming for everyone, it helps us all feel included and happy. It also means that everyone can get to the places they need to go, like school, parks and shops. By making the bus a place for everyone, we show that we care about each other and want to help everyone in our community.
Show your students this video to better explain the concept of courtesy seating on public transit buses.
Read out a statement below and ask your class if they think it’s on the “Do” list or the “Don’t” list.
| Do | Don’t |
| Offer Your Seat Courtesy seats are for people who need them the most. If you are sitting in a courtesy seat and you see someone board the bus who may need it more, offer your seat, it’s the right thing to do. | Block Accessible Areas Avoid standing or placing your bags or items in areas reserved for people with disabilities, such as wheelchair spaces and courtesy seating. |
| Be Patient and Helpful Give people with disabilities extra time to get on and off the bus. Offer help if they look like they need it, but always ask first. | Assume Help is Needed Never assume someone needs your help. Always ask first and respect their response. |
| Follow the Rules Learn the rules of the bus and follow them. Listen to the driver’s instructions to keep everyone safe and comfortable. | Rush or Push on the Bus Be patient and avoid rushing or pushing others when boarding or exiting the bus, especially those who may need extra time. |
| Talk to the Bus Driver If you or someone else needs help, please do not hesitate to ask the driver for assistance. They are a safe stranger whose job it is to keep the bus safe. | Stare or Point Treat everyone how you want to be treated. Staring or pointing at someone because they have a disability or are different than you is unkind. Be respectful! |
Give your students the downloadable “True or False” activity sheet. This will reinforce their understanding of how to make the bus more welcoming for all by checking the true or false answers.
Have your students draw themselves plus anyone who they think might need courtesy seating while on the bus.
Communication, collaboration, critical, reflective thinking and social emotional skills are at the forefront in this lesson.
Critical and Reflective Thinking
Commnication and Collaboration
Interactive Bus Tour
Help students familiarize themselves with the bus by visiting BusReady’s virtual bus tour. Older students will be capable of self-led exploration while younger students may require guidance.
Role Play
For students who may be eager to do more, consider having them roleplay different scenarios in which people with diverse needs would be accommodated using our accessibility features.
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