With this year’s official Walk to School Week now underway, we’re highlighting the benefits of walking, the importance of staying safe by the road and how it can all help the environment.
We all know the benefits of walking; it helps our mental health, our physical health, it connects you with nature and fewer cars on the road support a better environment.
Walking to school is good for children’s health and the environment. We know that parents see the benefits of walking to school, including improvements in mood and behaviour in their children.
From reduced congestion to higher footfall for local businesses, the whole community benefits when more children walk to school.
(https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/policy-reports-and-research/walking-to-school/
Staying safe by the road is a lesson we learn early, this includes not playing, always being aware, following rules, the green cross code and crucially, Stop, Look, Listen, Think! In some areas, particularly in the winter, it is also recommended that walkers wear high-vis jackets to provide extra awareness for drivers and other pedestrians.
For younger children….
- Hold hands when approaching the road
- Talk about how to cross roads safely
- Discuss safe places to cross
- Use clear and direct words
- Talk about traffic
- Be seen
(https://www.walkwheelcycletrust.org.uk/media/9918/sustrans-school-run-walking-tips.pdf?utm_campaign=17529_Active%20school-run%20tips&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Sustrans&dm_i=7CK6,DIX,20B6RQ,11J6,1)
Teens, parents and young adults also benefit from walking to school/college or work, but its wise to spread awareness for additional distractions such as using the phone, listening to music or using social media near the road.
Walk to School Week 2026 is taking place from 18th – 22nd May with this year’s theme: Mission Move.
