The first ever walk to school week took place in 1995, with a small number of schools taking part in Hertfordshire, raising awareness of the impact of transport on the environment. In 1996, the campaign was launched nationally by the Pedestrian Association (now known as Living Streets) and Travelwise, before being launched internationally in 2000. Each year, Living Streets launch a theme for walk to school week, along with daily challenges. This year’s theme is “The Magic of Walking”.

There are many benefits of walking, instead of jumping in the car to travel to school, some of these can include:

Physical Health: Walking is a simple and effective cardiovascular exercise that can help to promote children’s (and accompanying adults) physical health, strength, stamina and flexibility. Swapping the car / bus / taxi for walking is a great way to get those daily steps in!

Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being: There is a wealth of research available that highlights the positive impact exercise can have on mental health and emotional well-being. Exercise releases chemicals within the body called ‘endorphins’, which are often referred to as the “feel-good” hormones. Walking to school provides a great opportunity to increase exploration of the senses, both internal and external. Talking about things that you can see, hear, smell, feel, including the sensations we can feel inside our bodies (e.g., how our muscles feel), can help to support sensory and body awareness. This along with the release of “feel good” hormones, can have a positive impact on reducing potential stress and anxiety, therefore supporting children’s regulation, focus and readiness to learn.

Environmental Sustainability: Walking is an eco-friendly mode of travel in light of growing concerns around climate change. By encouraging children (and adults) to walk to school, we will see a reduction in traffic, congestion and air pollution, having a positive impact on the environment.
Independence and Road Safety: Walking to school can support the development of awareness and independence around road and street safety.

Social Interaction: Walking to school can also provide the opportunity for children to engage in conversations with family and friends. Conversations can be held about the school day ahead or stories can be shared at the end of the school day. These conversations can build social connections with others and strengthen friendships.

There are many benefits that can be seen by embracing “walking” as an alternative method of transport to school (during Walk to School Week and beyond). Interested in finding out more about this year’s ‘Walk to School’ daily challenges? Check out www.livingstreets.org.uk for further information. Happy walking!