Regarding an international school, one of the most important aspects is ensuring that children have safe and accessible ways to get to school. It includes providing a comprehensive kindergarten program and creating safe routes for kids to walk or bike to school.
There are many benefits to implementing safe routes for children to get to school, including promoting physical health and reducing traffic congestion in local communities.
Moreover, the safety standards have been rectified, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. So schools offering kindergarten programs have been making their campuses safe for children by putting up fences and installing surveillance cameras.
If you are willing to admit your kids to an international school, here are the common benefits of safe routes to school that you should keep in mind.
1. Promotes Physical Health
Walking or biking to school is a great way to get kids moving and active, helping them stay healthy and fit. It can also be an excellent opportunity for families to spend more time together outdoors rather than in cars stuck in traffic. However, this does not count if your kid is enrolled in an international kindergarten program, as they are too young to commute via bike.
2. Reduces Traffic Congestion
By encouraging children and parents to walk or bike to school instead of driving, schools can help reduce traffic congestion on the roads near their vicinity, making it easier for everyone to get around.
3. Provides a Sense of Community
When children walk or bike safely to school with friends and neighbours, they can build strong bonds and forge friendships that will last a lifetime. It can help create a greater community within your neighbourhood and beyond.
4. Supports Environmental Sustainability
With reduced cars on the roads and making it easier for children and parents to walk or bike, an international school can help promote a more sustainable future for our planet.
What to consider while choosing a safe route to school for your kids?
Remember a few key factors when choosing a safe route for your child to walk or bike to school. These may include the distance of the commute, traffic patterns and conditions along the way, and any safety features that may be available, such as sidewalks, bike lanes, and crosswalks.
Additionally, it is essential to talk with your child about safety precautions such as using reflective gear, staying alert at all times, and following all traffic laws and signals.
Things to discuss with school management for your kid’s travel safety
When selecting an international school for your child, it is crucial to ensure that the school provides a comprehensive international kindergarten program and offers safe routes for kids to walk or bike. Some key things to discuss with school management may include the following:
- Distance of the commute, including any potential hazards along the route that could impact safety
- Traffic patterns and conditions along the route, including areas with heavy congestion or high-speed traffic
- Safety features available on the route, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes, and other measures to keep children safe while travelling to school
- Additional measures taken to promote safe walking or biking routes, such as installing surveillance cameras, putting up fences, and implementing safety programs or policies.
By having an open dialogue with your international school about these topics and working together to create a safe route for kids to get to school, you can help ensure their safety every day.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an international school that offers a comprehensive kindergarten program and safe routes to school, ensure to do your research and ask the right questions before making a decision.
Whether through walking, biking, or providing additional transportation options like busing or carpooling, focusing on safety is essential when creating an optimal learning environment for kids.