The Indiana Safe Routes to School Partnership and Health by Design are encouraging schools and parents throughout the state to help students walk or bike to school every day, but especially on Oct. 7, which is International Walk to School Day.
Today, only 13% of children walk or bike to school, compared to 50% in 1969. Despite evidence that walking and biking provide physical, social and academic benefits, as well as reduce neighborhood traffic congestion, household costs and auto emissions, the vast majority of students arrive at school in a vehicle.
ĀThe number of children walking or biking to school is at an all-time low,Ā said Kim Irwin, who coordinates Health by Design and the Indiana Safe Routes to School Partnership. ĀHowever, weĀre seeing increased interest in bringing back the tradition as education leaders, parents and school staff experience the benefits of physical activity for students, especially at the start of their day.Ā
Tips on how to organize a Walk to School Day event at a school or in a neighborhood are available at www.walkbiketoschool.org.
To learn which Indiana schools are participating, visit http://walkbiketoschool.org/go/whos-walking/2015/IN.
