Bus operators will often find it economical to convert retired buses to use as permanent training buses for driver training, rather than taking a regular service bus out of use. Some large operators also converted retired buses into tow bus vehicles, to act as tow trucks.
Explain to an 8 year old child that is not yet 49 tall that the safety equipment built into the vehicle is for adults  not children, and a child needs to continue to use the proper equipment (booster seat) so that the adult equipment will fit, and be able to protect, their bodies in the event of a crash.
Most children are generally mature enough for a booster when they are 5 to 6 years old. The bare minimum for a booster seat is when a child is both 4 years old and 40 lbs. Just 2 months ago, a 3 year old was killed while in a booster seat: http://www.ktnv.com/news/local/187038601...f the child can't remain in position for the entire trip, the booster and seat belt can't protect him/her in a crash. The NHTSA recommends that children ride in a forward facing car seat with a 5 point harness through age 7 after they are turned forward facing. http://www.safercar.gov/parents/RightSea...