During COVID-19 restrictions, normal school zones were enforced while the number of students in attendance was dramatically reduced.

With students back to full attendance from Monday, May 25, NSW Police Assistant Commissioner, Michael Corboy, said it's imperative road users consider the risks to themselves and young people.

"School zones will become busy from today, with student numbers, vehicles, pedestrians, and buses returning to normal frequency," Assistant Commissioner Corboy said.

"With recent restrictions changing student attendance and impacting on vehicle, pedestrian and bus flows, we can't afford to become complacent for the remainder of the school term.

"All road users, including pedestrians, need to consider their own behaviour in school zones; pay attention to the flashing signs, comply with requests from school crossing supervisors, and keep everyone safe on our roads."

You may also like: Forster Public School begins transition back to classroom learning

Member for Myall Lakes, Stephen Bromhead, was thrilled to see students return to full time face-to-face learning.

"We know that parents, teachers and students have gone above and beyond during this challenging time," Mr Bromhead said.

"I am sure there is a lot of excitement in our school communities today as students head back, and parents and staff should be reassured by the health advice that our schools remain safe.

"The education of our kids is so important and we know that full time face to face teaching is the best way to learn."

With many students travelling to and from school on their own, it's important for parents to talk to their children about staying safe when they are not in the care of an adult.

Police and Emergency Services Minister, David Elliott, wants parents to feel reassured that as the community returns to normal daily activities, the commitment to keep people safe, particularly children, remains as strong as ever.

"As the government eases COVID-19 restrictions, we want the community to feel empowered to return to a way of life where they feel safe and protected," Mr Elliott said.

"Police are often the frontline responders to child protection matters and we are constantly using better techniques and technology to detect child abuse.

"Police commands and districts across the state are already being bolstered with the introduction of child protection register officers whose job is to monitor the movements and activities of convicted sex offenders."

You may also like: Destination Australia scholarships available to attract tertiary students to Mid North Coast

Child abuse and sex crime squad Commander Detective Superintendent John Kerlatec said while most cases of child abuse were at the hands of a person known to the child or online, it is timely for parents to remind their children about the best ways to keep safe.

"With so many children returning to school, it is important we arm them with the knowledge of what they can do to stay safe when they are not in the care of an adult," Det Supt Kerlatec said.

"While we are encouraged by the increased focus on online safety, parents should know that those who choose to exploit and abuse children are not limited to the internet.

"Police will always be committed to protecting kids from harm, but do not underestimate the impact you can have as a parent or carer by educating your children on how to stay safe."

Some helpful tips for children include:

Stay ahead with local news by signing up for the Great Lakes Advocate newsletter here.