VicHealth, Melbourne University research finds walking to school makes children healthier
MOST Victorian parents want their children to walk to school, University of Melbourne research commissioned by VicHealth has found. But most continue to drop the kids off by car. Here’s why.
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MOST Victorian parents want their children to walk to school, but are put off active transport because of distance, stranger danger, weather and the early-morning rush.
Research commissioned by VicHealth from the University of Melbourne also found children who do get to school without their parents are more active, with most walking, riding or scooting to class instead of catching a lift or the bus.
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A survey of 2000 Victorians over three years found while about 60 per cent of parents consistently wanted their children to walk or ride to school more often, 70 per cent continued to drop them off by car.
More parents this year said active transport was not an option for their family, compared to the number of parents who were open to the idea three years ago.
The unpublished research will be released today as VicHealth launches its Walk to School month.
VicHealth chief Jerril Rechter said the program aimed to encourage Victorian families to start healthy habits during the final term of the year.
“It’s natural for parents to feel anxious about letting their kids walk to school,” she said.
“Parents are in the best position to judge when their children are ready to walk or ride.
“Even if parents have to drive their child to school, if they can drop them off a couple of blocks before school and then let them walk independently.
“It’s those simple things that will help build independence and confidence.
“We need to make sure kids are getting the physical activity and the independence they need to ensure we are developing a generation of kids who are independent and not obese.”
South Melbourne mother-of-two Jean McGann first walks, scoots or rides with Harry, 6, to school 600m from home, before then taking Jack, 4, to kindergarten.
“It’s a good way for the kids to start their day by being active, now it’s a habit,” she said.
“Harry is already asking; when can I walk to school on my own? The more kids and parents who are out walking, it will make it safer for everyone.”
Ms McGann said active transport meant they needed to be extra organised the night before to ensure the walk wasn’t rushed, and it was a good way to debrief about their day and meet other local children.
To register for the program visit walktoschool.vic.gov.au
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