Walking to school is a fantastic way to get kids active. It increases their independence, they spend time with friends and get to know their neighbours. Kids can also become more confident and familiar with their surroundings.

Over time, the number of kids walking, riding or scooting to school has declined, with most families traveling by car. This is particularly true in the Yarra Ranges, where there are often longer distances to travel and a lack of safe walking paths.

To support kids in walking to school, Inspiro’s Health Promotion team has developed the My Yarra Ranges program which educates kids about safe active travel both to and from school and in the community.

Students also have an opportunity to explore the link between neighbourhood design and health and wellbeing, and create posters showcasing ideas of what would help their community to be more active.

The project has just been successfully launched at both Kallista and Ferny Creek Primary Schools and on completion of the project, the kids were asked to recall one thing they learnt.

The responses from students provided some great insight and reflection:

• Lots of things in my neighbourhood help me be active
• I learnt what active travel is
• You can be active doing almost anything
• If you walk to school you can notice more wildlife than in the car

Each school also hosted Walk to School events.  Close to 100 children, parents and teachers from the two schools took part in the event.

Student posters are on display for the community to view at the Belgrave Community Hub during November 2024.

Tips to remember when walking to school

Here are some tips to share with your kids if they decide to walk to school:

• Always keep to a path or footpath.
• Pay attention.
• Do not wear headphones or play on your device when walking.

When our ears, eyes, and brains are paying attention, it means we can be mindful of our surroundings and hear cars, warnings, and other dangers.

For more information about My Yarra Ranges contact Inspiro’s Health Promotion Team health.promotion@inspiro.org.au