Did you see an increase in foot traffic today when you were heading to work? Today is National Walk to School Day. The global event involves communities in over 40 countries and encourages students to walk and bike to school on a single day. It is a movement that is dedicated to getting kids more active.
Walk to School Day started as a simple idea to remind everyone of the simple joy of walking to school and the health benefits of regular exercise. It is now a day that bonds students, parents and teachers as the school focuses on health, safety, physical activity and environment education.
October 3rd marks Walk to School Day, but we think that any day of the week you have the timeframe to support this event, you should. If you are able to walk your child to and from school, consider these healthy perks:
- Your daily walk is the perfect time to talk with your child. You can also bond with other parents for future play dates!
- Walking is knocked for not being an intense form of exercise, but we think any extra mileage is worth it for you and your child.
- Your child will be more relaxed and ready to learn when they arrive in the classroom. The brain is already active.
- A walk is a chance to talk about street safety and the environment. Knowing the neighborhood and how to get around at a young age is beneficial.
- Walking is less stressful than driving! You set the pace, don’t have to worry about traffic and you can save a few bucks on gas money.
If there are lots of children in your neighborhood consider making a “walking bus.” This is a great way to coordinate with other parents and children that go to the same school and take turns walking the students to their destination.
Now, if only we could manage to make a “work bus” for us adults!
Do you participate in Walk to School Day? How do you get in a few extra steps?
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