Follow the leader

Keep the bus clean. If the bus is clean everyday then the kids will help keep it that way. If it is untidy, they will help keep it that way. It’s all about setting a good example and establishing expectations. If the bus is clean, kids tend to locate the trash container to deposit candy wrappers or waste paper. If the bus is untidy, those same kids will just throw it on the floor. They figure it won’t be noticed anyway so what the heck.

The same thing is true for yelling. I know sometimes that is the only way to get their attention while the bus is in motion but it sets a bad example for their voice tone and volume. If possible wait and catch a person as they leave the bus and talk to them personally. The result will be less defensiveness and embarrassment which generally produces a more desirable response. Learn to communicate with eye contact, hand signals and head nods utilizing the mirror while the bus is in motion.