School’s almost back for term four and with the weather warming up, it’s the perfect opportunity to consider walking, riding, scooting or skating to and from school.
As part of our commitment to fostering healthier habits and safer communities, the City of Casey has again proudly partnered with VicHealth’s Walk to School initiative. This year-round program aims to empower primary and secondary school children with the choice of active modes of transportation, such as walking, riding, scooting, or skating, during their daily journey to and from school.
With a steadfast mission to set young generations on a lifelong path to wellness, Council is thrilled to collaborate closely with Casey schools. Together, we’re committed to ensuring that the journey to school is not just convenient and secure, but also a unique opportunity for families to bond and engage. Through the Walk to School initiative, parents, caregivers, and educators are encouraged to guide children toward adopting healthier lifestyles, one step at a time.
Throughout the month of October, Council will be rallying schools and families to embrace active transportation options.
The 2021 ABS Stats underscored the pressing need for change, as 61 per cent of employed Casey residents commuted to work by car and over 66 per cent of households owned two or more vehicles. Consequently, a significant number of children were being driven to school daily.
Walk to School is great opportunity for kids and for our community. Walking, riding, scooting or skating before and after school can help reduce traffic and make the streets and drop-off zones around our schools safer. We understand that not everyone can walk all the way to or from school so if this is the case, even walking part way is a good option.
Regular physical activity has an extensive spectrum of benefits for children, encompassing enhanced mental well-being, uplifted mood and self-esteem, bolstered confidence and life skills, and deeper bonds with family, friends, and neighbours. Beyond enriching the lives of our children, the transition from car commutes to footpaths contributes to safer school streets, a reduction in traffic congestion, and a greener environment.
Join us in championing Walk to School as a transformative journey, not only for our young ones but for the entire community.
Check out our Safe Around Schools video for some tips and inspiration on how you might consider changing up your school journey for the benefit of your family and the community.
