Road safety is a critical life skill for children of all ages. This guide helps parents teach children how to navigate roads safely at different stages of development.
Introduction to Road Safety:
- Teach the difference between footpaths and roads.
- Always hold hands near roads or use safety reins/wrist straps.
- Explain pedestrian crossings (e.g., zebra crossings).
- Introduce “Stop, Look, Listen, Think.”
- Encourage wearing bright or reflective clothing.
Practical Road Safety Learning:
- Walk with an adult and hold hands near roads.
- Learn the “Stop, Look, Listen, Think” sequence:
1. Stop before stepping off the pavement.
2. Look both ways for traffic.
3. Listen for approaching vehicles.
4. Think before crossing.
- Recognize safe crossing places (e.g., pedestrian crossings, subways).
- Teach driveway safety and avoiding parked cars.
- Explain the importance of visibility (bright or reflective clothing).
Developing Independence:
- Begin practicing walking routes to school or local places.
- Learn the Green Cross Code:
- Find a safe place to cross.
- Stop at the kerb.
- Look and listen for traffic.
- Walk straight across the road—don’t run.
- Understand road signs and crossings (e.g., traffic lights, speed limits).
- Avoid crossing between parked cars unless absolutely necessary.
- Be cautious around driveways and reversing vehicles.
Adolescent Safety Tips:
- Reinforce the importance of safe road behavior as independence increases.
- Avoid distractions like phones, earphones, or hoods while crossing roads.
- Plan safe routes to school and practice public transport navigation.
- Walk directly to destinations without unnecessary stops or detours.
- Emphasize personal responsibility in peer-influenced situations.
With consistent practice and guidance, your child can become a confident, independent, and safe road user.???????