International Walk and Bike to School Day is Wednesday October 7

Submitted by Healthy Bedford Coordinator Carla Olson

Please join students and families from around the world to celebrate this day which is part of a larger movement to promote year-round safe routes to school.

WHY walk or bike to school?

Experts tell us:

• It promotes physical activity and reduces traffic congestion.
• Students who walk or bike to school are more alert and ready to learn.
• Walking or biking with parents and/or classmates helps kids learn independence and                                                                                       valuable safety lessons.
• The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends a minimum of one hour a day of physical    activity for school-age children.  Plus walking or biking to school with a parent foster communication.  You and your kids will love it!

Reducing vehicular traffic at our schools is important for all of us.  Traffic congestion around our schools is dangerous for students, delays prompt access for emergency vehicles, and idling cars contribute emissions which reduce air quality around our schools.

Look to your school newsletters for details on how you can participate on October 7.

For more information on how you might walk or bike to school visit:  www.bedfordma.gov/healthy-bedford, check out our Facebook page:  Healthy Bedford, or contact:  [email protected]