At Jelly Bean Junction, we are committed to creating the healthiest and safest environment possible for your children. One of the small yet powerful ways we can all contribute is to stop vehicle idling at school by turning off our engines during drop-off and pick-up. While it may seem harmless to leave your car running for a few minutes, especially in Florida’s heat, stop vehicle idling at school reduces risks to children’s health, our environment, and overall school safety.
Why stop vehicle idling at school matters
You may wonder why we’re emphasizing something as simple as shutting off your engine. Here are five important reasons:
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Children are more vulnerable to air pollution. Young lungs are still developing and children breathe at a faster rate than adults. This makes them especially susceptible to exhaust fumes, even during brief exposures. Vehicle emissions contribute to both short-term irritation and long-term respiratory issues.
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Some of our children have asthma and allergies. Several children at Jelly Bean Junction live with chronic respiratory conditions. For these children, even short exposure to idling fumes can trigger coughing, wheezing, or asthma attacks. Keeping our air clean directly protects their well-being.
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Parents have raised concerns. We’ve received frequent and valid complaints from families who notice the strong odor of fumes during drop-off and pick-up. These moments should be calm and joyful—not clouded by exhaust from running engines.
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Insurance safety requirements. Our school insurance policy mandates that all unattended vehicles on the premises must be turned off. This rule exists to prevent accidental movement, overheating, or fire risks. It’s a vital part of keeping everyone safe.
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Environmental responsibility. Turning off your engine reduces fuel waste and lowers your carbon footprint. It’s one more way we can teach our children—by example—what it means to care for our planet.
How you can help stop vehicle idling at school
We know that Florida weather can make it tough to power down the air conditioner. That’s why we encourage you to plan a few extra minutes during arrival and dismissal. If you anticipate a wait, feel free to park and come inside—our friendly staff will assist you while you cool off in our air-conditioned lobby.
We also understand that some children may need extra help getting in and out of the car, especially little ones or those adjusting to new routines. Just let us know! We’re happy to assist so you can safely shut off your engine and avoid unnecessary idling.
Let’s build healthier habits together
At Jelly Bean Junction, we believe the small things matter—like warm greetings, clean classrooms, and safe air. Our team is proud to model responsibility and respect for the children in our care, and we’re grateful that our families do the same.
Stopping vehicle idling at school is a team effort. Whether it’s a 30-second drop-off or a quick afternoon pickup, your choice to turn off the engine helps protect every child’s health and comfort. It also sets an example for eco-conscious behavior and shows that we care not only about our own children—but about everyone’s.
A little patience goes a long way
We know mornings can be busy, and afternoons can feel rushed. But with a little mindfulness, we can turn these daily routines into a time of calm, community, and care. When you turn off your engine—even for a minute—you send a message that says: “Your child matters. My child matters. Clean air matters.”
So the next time you pull into our parking lot, please remember to hit that ignition button. We’re here to support you and truly appreciate your effort to help Jelly Bean Junction remain a safe, nurturing, and responsible place for all.
Thank you for being part of our wonderful community—and for choosing care over convenience.
✅ Want to learn more about the impact of idling on children’s health? Read this informative article from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
https://www.epa.gov/schools/anti-idling-tools-schools
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