improves the fitness of young people and their families
		promotes social interaction between families and with other walking companions
		brings young people closer to nature, providing them with opportunity to observe and understand
		the environment around them
		improves alertness in class
		encourages families to consider walking as a workable, lifestyle option
		helps reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality around schools

		already participating with Walking Buses
		making their own way to school independently, with their parents or carers
		thinking about doing either of the above!

We are increasingly becoming a sedentary population, with obesity among children fast becoming a major health problem - perhaps affecting as many as 1 in 7 children in Britain. The Department of Health promotes the prevention, management and treatment of obesity in children. Exercise is encouraged - and there's no easier exercise to participate in than walking! Using a pedometer may help encourage young people to think about how far and how often they walk.

It is a worrying trend that some young people find walking boring or too much of an effort, only to be taken as a last resort. It is hoped that this Pack will go some way towards enriching the walking experience, whilst also getting young people to focus on the wealth of biodiversity around them. The activities aim to support formal educational learning experiences and to help develop language and observational skills.

Awareness of Health & Safety

A top priority is not to compromise the health and safety of those taking part, so:

		Follow the rules of the Walking Bus (where participating)
		Cross at accepted crossing points and use the Green Cross Code
		Don't allow the activities to distract you from your chosen route to school; any diversions will delay
		you and lead you on to routes where you may be less familiar with traffic movement, for example;
		Only participate in activities when using pavements or open spaces, not when crossing roads,
		where full concentration is required.

By design, none of the activities require the handling of natural items or the touching of features found along your route. However, it's worth being aware of the potential risk of infection by bacteria (for example Tetanus or Toxocara canis), especially where your young companion has cuts or touches their face. It's good practice to ensure that your young companion washes their hands on reaching school or uses antiseptic wipes you provide.

Walking Bus

Walking Bus 'Drivers' and 'Conductors' should choose the day they want to involve their 'passengers' with a particular activity, and seek additional adult help for that day. You will then still be able to concentrate on your main role - road safety.