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Article by Ruth

3 Essential Road Safety Tips for Kids

We’ve partnered with Bikeability, the government’s national cycle training programme that gives kids the skills and confidence they need to cycle on today’s roads. Whether it’s through Bikeability cycle training or giving them a head start with money with Rooster Money, we’re proudly supporting young people to learn new skills, build their confidence and earn some independence. As we’re sponsoring Bikeability’s Cycle to School Week, we’ve co-written this road safety for kids article to help kids stay safe when they’re cycling, walking, or wheeling to school. Don’t forget to check out Bikeability’s website to learn more about cycle training, in and out of schools, and how we’re supporting Cycle to School Week.

Letting your kids choose active travel to get to school alone is a great way to hand over some responsibility and let them gain their own independence. Before they get going it’s important they know the rules of the road to give you peace of mind and keep them safe along the way. We’ve pulled together 3 essential road safety tips for kids to make sure they’re well-prepared before they set off for school. Don’t forget to check out our article on giving your child independence for more ways to give them a sense of after-school freedom safely. Without any more delays, let’s dive into our top 3 tips on road safety for kids:

1: Use the road right

Cycling to school is a great way for kids to stay active and develop independence, but it’s crucial they understand and obey the Highway Code to stay safe. Just like cars, cyclists must adhere to the rules of the road. Remember that all road users have a responsibility to look after each other, so it’s important cyclists stop at red lights and stop signs, and give way to pedestrians at crossings. Staying visible to other road users is key, and this doesn’t always mean bright clothing. Cycling in the centre of the lane (Primary position) is the best place for cyclists to be safe and seen. If kids need to use the pavement, it’s important to be mindful of pedestrians, and dismount and walk their cycle over crossings to ensure maximum safety. With road safety lessons, it’s important to set an example. When you’re next out with the kids, remind them of these road rules and it will soon become a habit they pick up and follow.

2: Avoid using distracting devices

With a long walk or wheel to school ahead, kids might want to listen to the latest tunes or check their phone to keep them entertained on the way. While this can be okay when kids are walking safely on the pavement, it becomes a problem if they’re not paying attention close to, or on, busy roads. It’s best to use all the senses available to you and be aware of other road users. Speak to your kids about the dangers of using their phone or listening to loud music while walking or wheeling to school. It’s important they understand that staying alert can help them get to school safely. Set rules for no phones to be used while cycling or crossing the road, and make sure to stick to this yourself – kids often learn the best from seeing things put into practise by their parents.

3: Communicate with others using the road

The sooner a driver can spot a child, the sooner they can stop and slow down. That’s why it’s important for kids to learn different road safety lessons to help them on their way. Making eye contact and/or using an arm signal are the best ways for your kids to show their intentions. Encourage them to be bold and clear when signalling, and remember communication is a two-way street, so look out for other road users’ signals.When you’re next out with your kids, get them to practise making eye contact with drivers whenever they reach a crossing, or signalling on their cycle when they want to turn. They’ll soon learn this is a good way to stay safe and it will help to build their confidence when it’s time for them to travel to school solo.

That wraps up our 3 tips for essential road safety for kids. Remember the aim isn’t to scare them with all the dangers of the road, you want to teach them to be cautious but confident. With all this practice they’ll be absolute pros when the time comes to walk or wheel to school solo. If you’re looking for more handy back to school guides, read our article on ‘what age can a child walk to school alone?’ to help you decide if your child is ready to do it themselves. You can also check out our ultimate back to school parent’s guide to help your kids get off to a flyer in the new school term. For more useful tips, check out our handy back to school hub for even more videos and articles to help you and your family take on the term.