Classes reopen in Conejo Valley Unified School District Wed., Sept. 1, proving again that time flies. Many of us are wondering, “Where did summer go?”

Much of the back-to-school work is finished for some parents, but for others there are still clothes and school supplies to buy.

Procrastination, like it or not, is a common trait.

While some children may act unhappy that summer break is over, deep down inside they might actually be glad to go back to school.

The biggest hassle for most families is dealing with the horrendous traffic before and after class.

Here’s an idea: Tell the kids to walk to school. Most children live within reasonable walking distance of their schools, especially elementary campuses. The exercise will do them good, and if more children walked or rode bicycles to school, we’d have less traffic congestion and pollution.

While we’d wager that many parents agree that it’s a good idea, we’d also bet that hardly anyone actually lets their kids walk or ride bikes to school, even if they agree about the advantages.

Driving our children to school is just too ingrained in our heads. If we think kids are safer in our cars, we’re going to take them to school, even if it’s only a few blocks. The school parking lot and street might be a gridlocked mess, but we’re willing to cope with it because we’ve been doing it for so long.

A few suggestions might be in order. When you drive to school, be patient. Respect other drivers. No cellphones or coffee mugs, please. Leave as early as possible and obey the speed limit.

All motorists should use caution, particularly in school zones.