Students will return to either East Aurora or Iroquois schools on Wednesday, Sept. 8, something we should all keep in mind as we go about our daily activities.

Suddenly, there will be buses on the road again and youngsters being picked up and dropped off, possibly at stops unfamiliar to them.

Some of those children may be new to their neighborhoods or schools. Maybe their bus routes have changed. In any case, they will be excited and perhaps not paying attention to their surroundings.

We urge readers to think about that on morning and afternoon commutes — and not just on Wednesday. Be on the lookout for stopped buses and for children in — and outside — crosswalks. Also, be sure to obey crossing guards stationed at intersections.

It’s unfortunate, but drivers can never know when a child might dart unthinkingly into the street.

It’s important to look out for older students, too. Some teenagers will be behind the wheel themselves because they are driving to and from school. While many young people are responsible drivers, others may be speeding down the streets.

But while it’s important to think about students’ physical safety, we’d like to encourage people to think about other ways we can look out for the young people in our lives.

We may not be able to help with their homework or make sure they get enough sleep on a school night. That’s the parental role. But we can provide other kinds of support — sometimes with just a smile, a pat on the back or a kind remark.

There’s no reason we can’t create a positive environment for the young people in our lives — the kind of environment that would help these students thrive.

Many young people cross our paths every day, whether in a store, at some community function, or in our own homes and backyards.

Think about how you interact with a teenage cashier, the baby sitter, or the youth who mows your lawn? Is there limited conversation, with a hello and goodbye and some money exchanging hands?

We suggest taking a greater interest in the young people we encounter in our daily lives. Why not engage them in conversation – offer an encouraging word about a job well done, ask how the day is going and provide some assistance if needed.

Some young people may find this to be just the opening they need to talk about themselves — and allow you to be a part of their lives.