It used to be that the only kids who got a drive to school were those who lived far enough away to take the bus. The rest of us walked, except on those days when we rode our bikes.
Today 28 percent of kids walk to school, half as many as their parents’ generation, stated the Active Healthy Kids Canada Report Card. And those who do walk travel 480 metres or less on foot.
Chauffeuring our kids around the neighbourhood has its consequences. Only five percent of Canadian children meet the current national guidelines of 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Walking a kilometre a day would contribute 15-20 minutes toward that goal.
As parents we need to set an active example, which starts by getting off our duffs and walking our kids to school. Here are a few suggestions offered by ParticipACTION on how to encourage other families to do the same.
- Get involved with other parents to take turns walking children to school, or organizing a walking school bus.
- Support school efforts to encourage active transportation by taking part in ongoing programs. Consider leading an active transportation committee at the school to increase the number of kids who walk, wheel or bike daily.
- Be vocal with municipal leaders about any needed changes to sidewalks, crosswalks, or more crossing guards to make your local community more walkable and safer for cycling.
