Primary school children across Australia will lace up their sneakers this Friday, May 16, for National Walk Safely to School Day.
Now in its 26th year, the national initiative encourages students, families, and carers to ditch the car and walk instead.
The goal is to promote healthier lifestyles, safer streets, and cleaner air, one step at a time.
Led by Pedestrian Council of Australia, the campaign highlights the benefits of walking and other forms of active transport. It also calls attention to road safety, public transport use, and the importance of reducing traffic congestion around schools.
“Until they are 10, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road,” Harold Scruby, Chairman and CEO of the Pedestrian Council of Australia said.
The initiative also links physical activity to better learning outcomes.
Walking, even for a few minutes a day, can improve a child’s focus and academic performance.
As part of the day, schools and P&C groups are encouraged to host a healthy breakfast, adding a nutritional boost to the morning routine. Scruby noted that one in four Australian children are facing critical level of obesity and urged families to take action.
“The best form of physical activity for all Australians is walking regularly. Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We should encourage them to take a walk before school, during and at end of their day,” he said.
Parents, teachers and carers are urged to get involved, not just on Friday, but every day.
