Walking or biking to school is not only great for the environment, it's healthy for kids and provides an opportunity for them to be "part of the solution." School systems and communities across the country are implementing policies and developing infrastructure to support these simple alternative transportation modes.

First, of course, children need a safe route to and from school. School officials, parent groups and community leaders can help by coordinating their efforts to ensure safe travel with special signage, adequate lighting, designated cross walks, etc.

For children biking to school, there should be a safe, secure and weather-protected bicycle parking area. (Even kids' bicycles are expensive these days.) Cubbies or lockers large enough to accommodate bicycle helmets should be provided.

In areas where heavy traffic or remote school location prohibits children from walking or biking to school, car pooling can save energy and money, and reduce traffic congestion. The simple act of carpooling with two other families cuts everyone's fuel consumption by two-thirds!

Resources:

Join kids and families from around the world during the first week of October during International Walk to School Week.

The Centers for Disease Control have developed a new program called Kids Walk-to-School, with great promotional ideas and helpful information about pedestrian safety.