The event , National Walk to School Week 2010 , which takes place between May 17 and 21 , has the theme of “Walk Your Way” which aims to encourage parents and children to get to know their local neighbourhood better by exploring it on foot with children right across Milton Keynes will be striding out as they take part in the event. By doing so, children will be able to learn to orientate themselves on the journey to and from school , as well as learning vital road safety skills and keeping active. This year by sending wall charts , Milton Keynes Council’s Road Safety Team , posters leaflets and stickers to over 450 primary school classes and visiting local schools to present assemblies.
With an enormous 43 % being driven to school in cars, despite the fact that the majority of primary school pupils live within 20 minute walk of their school. Jessica Smith, school travel plan adviser for Milton Keynes Council said “Walking can be beneficial to children in a number of ways, helping them learn vital road safety skills, to interact with their local environment and to become 'streetwise' and develop independence” while Tony Armstrong , Chief Executive of Living Streets added “Young children are often bundled from front door to car door without the opportunity to get out on foot, to learn about road safety and to get to know their local neighbourhood.
Often parents say they don't have the time to walk, but many people underestimate the time it takes to travel by car or public transport and overestimate how long it takes to walk. By walking, children can be taught important road safety messages feel part of their community and gain the confidence they deserve. Even if you feel you live too far to commute the whole way on foot, why not try to 'park and stride. You can find somewhere to park away from the school and walk the rest of the way. Not only will you miss the rush to find a parking space, but you will also help ease congestion around the school and fit in some exercise for you and your children”.
The organization runs the highly successful Walk to School Campaign, which encourages over two million children, parents and teachers to leave their cars at home and walk to school.
