Until not long ago, I was unaware that International Walk to School Day existed. Then again, I also didn’t know there were special days for coloring books or carrot cake! But putting that aside, International Walk to School Day is a noteworthy event. Children, parents, and educators gather along popular routes to walk to school together. Local news crews come to capture the moment and interview families. However, for us and several families in our neighborhood, it’s more than just a day; it’s a Walk to School Month—and a Walk to School Year.
Each morning and afternoon, my kids, along with a few friends, make the three-quarter-mile trek to and from school—unaccompanied by adults. In this era of overprotective parenting and scheduled activities, it’s uncommon for children to walk to school without supervision. Yet this is the norm for my kids, who are in grades ranging from first to fifth. (We do carpool on rainy days.) Besides the crossing guards at two intersections, they navigate their route independently, and it’s truly amazing.
I want to clarify that my children are not in any immediate danger. They are well-acquainted with the path and have been taught about safety, including staying together, being aware of strangers, and understanding traffic rules. Despite the constant concerns regarding crime and kidnappings, it’s statistically safer for kids today than it was in the 70s and 80s, when walking to school alone was common.
The Benefits of Walking to School Alone
Walking to school alone not only promotes safety in many areas but also offers numerous advantages that they wouldn’t experience if driven by an adult. For one thing, it provides a break from their otherwise structured, adult-led day. Most of their time is managed by adults, whether at school or home. The 25-minute walks each day are precious moments of freedom that are critical for their development, allowing them to unwind and transition smoothly from the school environment.
Their independent walks also foster essential social skills. They learn to look out for one another in ways they might not if an adult were present. My youngest, who is in first grade, sometimes struggles with the distance after a long school day. He tends to slow down, collect rocks, and find little treasures along the way. Although the older kids may get a bit impatient, they stick together and support one another. A key part of my role as a parent is to nurture their independence, and providing them opportunities to be self-sufficient is crucial. On this short journey home, they can be kids and practice what it means to be independent in a safe environment. Will they make mistakes? Absolutely—growing up is messy, and independence comes with its own set of challenges.
Benefits for Parents
The perks aren’t limited to my kids. I also benefit from this arrangement! They leave earlier in the morning and come home later, giving me an extra hour to prepare for their return. And best of all, I’m spared the hassle of the carpool line.
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In summary, allowing my kids to walk to school alone has opened doors for their independence, social skills, and personal growth. It’s a routine that benefits not just them, but me as well, providing a balance in our busy lives.