August - Back to School

Now is a great time to organize a Walk or Bike to School Day or Program in your area! A number of resources are available to groups and individuals to facilitate these efforts:

The Kidswalk-to-School Guide describes how to organize a Walk to School program, generate enthusiasm in your community, and work with the media and elected officials.

The Walk and Bike to School website provides additional information and explains the Safe Routes to School program.

Choosing a safe route is an important first step in encouraging your child to walk or bicycle to school. A few basic tips for choosing a route include: try to identify the safest, most direct route, favor areas that are well-maintained, have few commercial driveways, low traffic speeds/volume and mostly right turns. More tips...

Another good option for parents with safety concerns is a Walking or Bicycling School Bus. This Active Transportation scenario involves volunteer parents who take turns walking or bicycling with a group of children to and from school.

How to Organize a Walking/Cycling School Bus is a guide published by Go for Green as part of the Active and Safe Routes to School Program. The publication provides many useful ideas and tips on promoting the concept, establishing rules, and ensuring continued support.