by Martha Leonard

Created on: November 27, 2011

Parents need to start young when teaching their children about safety. Once they are able to walk, for instance, they need to learn that roadways and pedestrians can be a dangerous combination unless certain guidelines are followed. These guidelines include where, when and how to walk. 

First, children learn best by doing, then by imitating their parents. For this reason, teaching a child to be a safe pedestrian begins by parents going for walks with them. Not only is walking a good, healthy family activity, but the best way to point out and model safer walking behavior. 

Begin by teaching the children the best places to walk.  It is important, for instance, for a pedestrian to stay on the sidewalk. This can be taught at a young age as the parent accompanies a child and points out how streets are for cars and sidewalks are for people. This idea can be underscored during a walk time by pointing out areas without sidewalks and avoiding them. 

As a child matures, the parent needs to point out ways some areas may be more desirable for walking. A road which has a lot of traffic or faster moving cars is more dangerous than a residential neighborhood where the traffic is not as bad. Neighborhoods which appear more run down, or have many closed or boarded-up buildings are generally considered less safe for walking. Another thing to note is whether dogs are required to be on a leash or may be running loose. A parent can explain, then demonstrate by going to some of the best places to walk. These may include parks, beaches, exercise paths, shopping areas with wide sidewalks and malls.

Personal preferences often govern when one walks, but some times are better than others. Daylight is considered safer than nighttime. Younger children up to older teens should never be walking after dark. It is a good idea to discourage teens from walking alone after dark. Weather also needs to be considered. Icy conditions are to be avoided as well as stormy weather. On the other hand, walking in a gentle rain or snowfall can be wonderful, if the walker is dressed for the weather. 

Ways of walking are also important. Things to teach children include taking a walking stick along, especially in a neighborhood with loose dogs or when walking alone. If an older child must walk after dark, teach them to wear light colored clothing and carry a flashlight. Insist, if it is possible, to avoid walking alone. Older youth should buddy up or go with a group. Everyone should

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