Parenting Skills

Teaching Road Safety: A Simple Guide for Parents




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.


Key Messages by Age Group

1. Toddlers (Ages 1–4)

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.

2. Children Aged 5–7 (Key Stage 1)

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).

3. Children Aged 8–11 (Key Stage 2)

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.

4. Young People Aged 11–15

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.


General Road Safety Tips for Parents

  1. Set an Example: Children mimic adult behavior—always use pedestrian crossings and avoid risky behavior.
  2. Teach Visibility: Explain how reflective and fluorescent materials increase safety, especially in low light.
  3. Practice Regularly: Walk with children near quiet roads to practice crossing techniques.
  4. Use Resources: Explore apps like Virtual Road World to complement practical training.

Preparing for Independent Travel

  • Practice routes to school with your child before their first solo trip.
  • Discuss potential challenges, such as unfamiliar roads or public transport.
  • Encourage your child to stick to familiar routes and avoid shortcuts.

With consistent practice and guidance, your child can become a confident, independent, and safe road user.???????


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