Children walking to school, helped across the street by a smiling crossing guard--it's as American as apple pie, right? But this wholesome scene is becoming increasingly uncommon, as harried schedules, fear of predatory strangers, and lack of sidewalks and walking paths in many suburban communities lead many parents to drive their kids every day, adding to both environmental problems and the obesity epidemic.
In response, a group called the National Center for Safe Routes to School has declared today, October 3, Walk to School Day, but with a little community teamwork, you can help make walking and biking to school safer any day of the year. One idea with a proven track record is a " walking school bus" or bicycle train--essentially, just a group of children walking or biking together with one or more adult leaders. (Since there's safety in numbers, of course.) Sound simple? It is. Just goes to show that improving the environment and kids' health can be as easy as putting one foot in front of the other.
Children walking to school, helped across the street by a smiling crossing guard--it's as American as apple pie, right? But this wholesome scene is becoming increasingly uncommon, as harried schedules, fear of predatory strangers, and lack of sidewalks and walking paths in many suburban communities
lead many parents to drive their kids every day, adding to both environmental problems and the obesity epidemic.
In response, a group called the National Center for Safe Routes to School has declared today, October 3, Walk to School Day, but with a little community teamwork, you can help make walking and biking to school safer any day of the year. One idea with a proven track record is a " walking school bus" or bicycle train--essentially, just a group of children walking or biking together with one or more adult leaders. (Since there's safety in numbers, of course.) Sound simple? It is. Just goes to show that improving the environment and kids' health can be as easy as putting one foot in front of the other.