Walking benefits both our health and the environment. It also provides an excellent opportunity to spend time with children while discussing crucial road safety topics.

Walking with their children allows parents to engage the entire family in exercise, explore their surroundings, and enjoy quality time together while discussing and learning about road safety.

#Taking walks with young children.

When your child is old enough to walk with you, emphasize the importance of always holding your hand. Make this your top rule. If your child tends to pull away, consider using safety reins or a wrist strap. Ensure they walk on the inside, away from traffic, to prevent accidents if they trip.

During your walks, teach them the vocabulary and concepts needed to understand traffic dangers.

Traffic is fast and dangerous, capable of injuring or killing people who are slower and more fragile. It’s crucial to stay away from roads, hold an adult’s hand, and avoid running near traffic. Additionally, traffic produces harmful fumes that can damage your lungs, which is why walking is healthier and better for the environment than driving.

Set a Comfortable Pace: Walk at a pace that is comfortable for your child. Allow for frequent breaks if needed.

Use a Stroller or Carrier: For younger children, consider using a stroller or a baby carrier to make the journey easier.

Navigating roads on your own. By the age of eight or older, many children can begin to master using roads on their own, although some may require more time to develop this skill.

Once you and your child agree it’s safe for them to walk independently, make sure to continuously educate and reinforce the importance of crossing safely. Teach them the Green Cross Code, emphasizing steps like stopping somewhere safe, looking both ways and only crossing when certain it’s safe.

Assist children in mapping out the safest route for their travels to school, the park, shops, or their friends’ homes.

Hopefully, your community has safe sidewalks, designated crossing areas, and a 20mph speed limit. If not, consider advocating for improvements to ensure the safety of your family and others.

Plan Engaging Routes: Choose routes that have interesting sights or stops along the way, like parks, playgrounds, or nature trails.

Bring Snacks and Water: Keep snacks and water handy to keep your child energized and hydrated.

Dress Appropriately: Ensure your child is dressed for the weather and wearing comfortable shoes.

Use Safety Gear: For busy areas, use safety gear like a child leash or wrist link to keep your child close.

Teach Safety Rules: Teach your child basic pedestrian safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing the street and staying on the sidewalk.

Make It Fun: Turn the walk into a fun adventure with games like “I Spy,” or storytelling to keep your child entertained.

Be Patient: Allow extra time for your walk to accommodate your child’s pace and curiosity.

Stay Positive: Encourage and praise your child for their walking efforts to keep them motivated.