Walking, biking, skating, and scooting are great ways to get to school. An active commute to start the day sets students up for a safe, healthy, and on-time start for a successful new year of school.

Healthy Bodies & Healthy Communities

Most of us know that walking or biking to school provides great exercise for students by building strong bones and muscles and improving cardiovascular health. But the benefits of walking and biking also extend to the entire neighborhood and surrounding community.

Walks through the neighborhood give neighbors the chance to meet, greet and look out for each other. When neighbors see other families’ children walking to school, feelings of security can increase and create a snowball effect of more students walking together in groups (How to Form a Walking School Bus). Plus, with fewer cars on the road, air quality improves and traffic congestion lessens.

Safe & Healthy Habits

Studies are showing that children who are active on a regular basis tend to become active adults. Building a routine of walking or biking to school each day is one way to ingrain exercise as a normal, daily activity for a lifetime. (Your children will thank you for instilling exercise as a way of life when they’re older!)

Teach your children how to walk and bike safely. Plan – and practice – a safe route to and from school. Learning to navigate the environment is an important part of growing up, and walking to school builds independence, character, and decision making skills.

Many parents feel uneasy allowing students to walk for fear of kidnapping or attack. While actual statistics show these occurrences are extremely rare, it is important to talk with children about what to do in an emergency. Some parents feel safer walking with their children and also enjoy the benefits of exercise and shared quality time. Getting to know neighbors along the route also gives students plenty of support options between home and school, if needed.

Have a great 2018-19 school year, from Street Smarts Diablo.