Schools are busy places, especially at the beginning and end of the school day.
Help your students get started on the right foot - encourage them to walk or bike to school when possible. Even leaving the car a block or two and walking the rest of the way helps.
It’s good for the environment and your health, and teaches your child independence and community awareness.
Top reasons for students to walk or ride to school
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exercise helps students learn and perform better at school
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fresh air has a positive impact on mood
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cleaner environment for everyone in the community
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builds independence and self-confidence
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community awareness – know the neighbours, friends and parents
HDSB Schools Walk and Wheel
Walking and wheeling to school often takes less time than you think! The map below will help estimate the time it would take to walk or cycle to school. Select your school name and choose your mode of transportation - walk or cycle. The map can help plan daily trips to the school by active transportation or even help with finding locations to park that are a 5 minute walk from the school (park only in legal parking zones).
Safety Tips for Walking and Riding
- Map out and review walking/biking route to school with your child, identify streets and landmarks on the route, review traffic signs and stop sign rules
- When crossing roads always cross at corner, stop and look for traffic
- Do not step out in front of parked cars or snow banks without checking for on-coming traffic
- Be aware, no listening to music or text/talking on phone while walking or riding
- Use sidewalks where possible, walk on the left facing traffic, in single file
- Dress appropriately for the weather (waterproof, warm, scarf, hat, mittens etc.)
- Wear clothing or carry knapsacks with reflective material that can be seen by car drivers
- Bring a change of clothes when walking or riding in inclement weather
- Walk with a friend for safety and awareness
Additional Resources
