National Walk Safely to School Day – a day to encourage healthy exercise and independence among primary school aged children will be staged across Australia on May 19.
Championed by the Pedestrian Council of Australia, National Walk Safely to School Day is in its 24th year. The national day aims to raise awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking, or alternative active transport (especially to and from school) can provide for the long term well-being of our children, every day.
Apart from the physical benefits, regular walking also has a favourable impact on children’s cognitive and academic performance. Walk Safely to School Day also encourages positive environmental action, better use of public transport with reduced car-dependency and encourages parents and carers to walk more, reducing dangerous traffic congestion around schools.
Chairman of the Pedestrian Council of Australia, Harold Scruby, said he was disturbed by the ongoing childhood obesity epidemic that affects one in four children at critical levels across Australia.
“The best exercise for all Australians is walking regularly,” Mr Scruby said. “Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We should encourage them to take a walk before school, during and at the end of their day. Mr Scruby.
The national initiative also promotes healthy eating and encourages schools and Parents and Citizens groups to host a healthy breakfast on the day. In closing, Mr Scruby urged young Australians to take care while celebrating the day. “Until they are 10, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road,” he said.
