Walk to school week and save money

This week is National Walk to School Week, and research into school commuting habits are revealing some shocking facts.

A whopping 41 per cent of children are being driven to school, despite the average distance being around one mile.

This is adding to congestion around schools, with children’s lives being put at risk by added cars on the road and illegal parking .

Recently, councils in Bristol have stepped in with powers to fine parents who park on the zig zag lines outside of schools, much to the anger of some.

Research published today by the charity Living Streets, reveals that parents who walk their children to school instead of driving them are getting the benefit of valuable social time with their family and friends, as well as staying fit and active.

More than two thirds of children who are driven to school don’t get to socialize with other kids until getting to the classroom. During the journeys, children are also opting  for the solitude of the MP3 player or video games.

A third of parents also said that the walk to school was a valuable way of finding out about their child’s school life and what they get up to.

New data from Change4life calculates that the cost of the school run by car equates to £367 per child per year. Now they are urging parents to rethink this waste of money, and take the opportunity to walk, saving money, getting fit and socializing with their children.

Change4Life is supporting the Walk to School Week, which also coincides with its Walk4Life month long campaign. It is aiming to get children up and about and achieve their recommended 60 active minutes a day.

Chief Executive of Living Streets, Tony Armstrong said: “Not only is walking to school an excellent way to get people out and about on foot, it is also a great time for children to spend some real quality time with their parents or carers, socializing with friends and burning off their excess energy before getting their head in the books.

 “We are delighted that Walk to School Week is part of the Change4life movement from the Department of Health and challenge everyone to give walking a go during Walk to School Week. We think you’ll be amazed at how enjoyable a regular walk can be.  It’s one of the cheapest, greenest, most enjoyable ways you can spend regular quality time together, and reap health rewards for all the family!