Safe Routes To School Programs

Walking School Bus is a group of children walking to school or other destinations with one or more adults. Caregivers can take turns leading the bus, which follow the same route every time and picks up children from their homes or designated ‘bus stops’ at designated times. Ideally, ‘buses’ run every day or on a regular schedule so families can count on it, but they often begin as a one-time pilot event. A Walking School Bus can be as informal as a few caregivers alternating to walk with their children, but often it is a well-organized, PTA-led effort to encourage walking to school.

Target Audience
Elementary, middle school

Format
Event, school journey/pick-up and drop-off

Outcomes
Increased walking,
Improved walking safety behavior
Understanding of health and environmental connections

Discussion Questions
Have you ever participated in walking school bus? If not, what would it take?
Do you know any other caregivers in your neighborhood that might be willing to participate?