SOUTH East students will be on the path to a healthier and active lifestyle tomorrow when participating in National Walk Safely to School Day.
Now in its 20th year, the national event raises awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking can provide for the long-term well-being of children.
Mulga Street Primary School principal Mardi McClintock said the event encouraged children’s brains to fire up before arriving to school, which can improve cognitive performance.
“It is a time for students to socialise and spend time with people they may not have met before,” she said.
“There is evidence which shows Australians are moving towards a sedentary lifestyle and walking to school helps overcome this issue.
“It is all about getting children moving and not relying on vehicles to get us places.”
Pedestrian Council of Australia chairman and chief executive officer Harold Scruby said the day also encouraged parents and carers to incorporate more walking into their daily routine.
“Not only does the event reduce dangerous traffic congestion around schools, it brings better use of public transport with reduced car-dependency and provides background on the important road safety of until 10 years of age, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road,” he said.
Ms McClintock said staff and parents will meet students at multiple points around the school tomorrow and walk students the rest of the way.
“Parents and family members will join us so the event is a great initiative which gets the community involved,” she said.
“We encourage people who live on the outskirts of town to park at a reserve and walk from there with their children.”
Ms McClintock urged road users to take caution on the day with children jotting surrounding pathways.
“Drivers need to be careful when passing children and take caution around school crossings,” she said.
“It is a national event so it will happen right across Australia and the South East.
“This year’s weather is looking great so we are expecting a high-participation rate.”
