Walk at School
Specific recess, physical education or even class time can be dedicated to getting out and walking together. Students use the school track or walk around the school building. It's an activity all the children can enjoy, and the walks can be tied into a variety of classroom activities.
Walking at school is particularly good when routes to school need improvement before it is safe to walk or if students live too far away to walk or ride.
Event ideas for walking at school include:
- Hold a walk during lunchtime
- Incorporate a walking theme into physical education class.
- Invite the school mascot or wear school colors while walking.
- Play walking songs.
- Hold a pep rally before the walk.
- Do a flag salute before the event.
- Hold a pedestrian safety assembly or "question and answer" session for the kids along with the walk.
Putting it into Practice
PE classes at a North Iowa Community Middle School in Thompson, Iowa, include walking units both in the fall and spring. This year they also have the use of pedometers throughout the year. Additionally, a new outdoor Walk and Learn Trail will make more opportunities to walk for the entire community.
