Celebrate National Walk & Roll to School Day on October 9
by Kaysi-Ann Webly, Transit Planner
As the crisp autumn air ushers in the month of October, the temperatures are perfect to celebrate this year’s Walk to
School Day on Wednesday, October 9! This annual event is not just a fun opportunity to get moving but also a chance to foster stronger community bonds, promote healthy habits, and enhance safety around our schools.
Why Walk to School?
Walking to school offers numerous benefits for both children and adults. It provides a chance for physical exercise, helps reduce traffic congestion, and fosters a sense of independence in children. Moreover, walking as a family can strengthen relationships and create a shared sense of accomplishment.
Get Involved by Forming a Walking Bus
One of the best ways to participate is by forming a “walking
bus.” Gather a group of families and establish a regular meeting point where everyone can start their journey to school together. This not only makes walking more fun but also ensures that children have supervision along the way. To get started, plan your route, set a meeting time, and communicate with participating families about the logistics.
Safety Tips
- Be visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing to ensure you and your child are easily seen by drivers.
- Use Pedestrian Crossings: Always use marked crosswalks and obey traffic signals to safely cross streets.
- Stay Alert: Keep distractions to a minimum. Parents should lead by example by staying off their phones and focusing on the walk.
- Communicate with Your Child: Discuss the importance of being aware of their surroundings and practicing safe pedestrian behaviors.
- Select Your Route: Be sure to reference the latest Safe Routes to School Maps at the Safe Routes to School webpage to find a safe walking route.
Driver Awareness
For those driving near schools, please be extra cautious on Walk to
School Day and every day. Observe reduced speed limits, watch for pedestrians at crosswalks, and avoid distractions. Your attention can make a big difference in keeping our children safe.
Get Involved and Spread the Word
Be sure to contact your School Administration and parent-teacher group to see what plans are already in place and ask how you can help! Encourage your friends and neighbors to join in on Walk to School Day. The more walkers the greater your visibility! Share your experiences and photos on social media using the hashtag #WalkToSchoolDayTKPK to inspire others in our community.
Walking to school is more than just a commute; it’s an opportunity to invest in our health, safety, and community spirit. Let’s make this October 9 a day to remember by stepping out together and enjoying the benefits of walking.
Happy walking!
This article appeared in the October Edition of the Takoma Park Newsletter. Check out this article and more on the City webpage.
