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What Every Child Should Know Before Walking to School

Child Pedestrian Safety – Walking to School in Northern Ireland

Helping young walkers stay safe, confident and street smart.

Walking to school is a wonderful way for children to get fresh air, build independence and develop healthy habits. But before they set off, it’s essential that they understand how to stay safe along the way.

Whether your child is just starting to walk alone or walking with friends for the first time, here’s what every child should know:

  1. Stop, Look, Listen and Think

Teach your child the Green Cross Code

  1. Find a safe place to cross
  2. Stop: Stand on the pavement near the kerb
  3. Look & Listen: Look all around and listen
  4. Wait: If traffic is coming, let it pass. Look all around and listen again.
  5. Cross: When it is safe, walk straight across the road. Don’t run!
  6. Keep Looking & Listening: Keep looking and listening for traffic while crossing.

 

  1. Always Use Designated Crossings if Available

Make sure your child knows how to:

  • Use pedestrian crossings like zebra or pelican crossings
  • Wait for the green man and cross steadily, not running
  • Avoid crossing between parked cars or on bends

Walk the route together and highlight the safest crossings, not just the shortest path.

 

  1. Be Bright, Be Seen

Visibility is especially important in autumn and winter.

  • Add reflective strips to coats and schoolbags
  • Choose bright colours whenever possible
  • Use a small torch or flashing accessories on bags

Drivers are much more likely to notice children who stand out.

  1. No Phones or Earphones While Crossing

Explain the risks of distractions to your child:

  • No texting while walking
  • No music or headphones near roads
  • Keep looking and listening to what’s happening around them

 

  1. Walk Facing Traffic Where There’s No Pavement

If part of the route has no pavement, teach your child to:

  • Walk facing oncoming traffic
  • Stay as far to the right as possible
  • Watch carefully for vehicles coming from all directions at junctions or bends

 

  1. Stick With a Friend or Group

Encourage your child to walk with a friend, sibling or group whenever possible. It’s safer, more social and offers support if anything unexpected happens.

 

  1. Know the Route – and the Rules

Make sure your child:

  • Knows their route to school by heart
  • Understands what to do if they get lost (e.g., go to a safe place or trusted adult)
  • Knows how to contact you in an emergency

 

Final Word:

Independence is exciting for children and walking to school is a great first step. But safety comes first. By preparing them with the right knowledge and habits, you’ll give your child the confidence to walk smart and stay safe.

Let’s work together to keep every child safe on Northern Ireland’s roads.

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