Express & Star

Talking point: Parents are a danger to our children on the walk to school

When we let our little ones walk to school on their own for the first time it is with our hearts in our mouths. We know only too well the dangers they face.

Published

I'm not talking about the mystery men in vans who it would appear routinely drive past schools if the rumours are to be believed.

Or the bullies we imagine to be waiting on every street corner.

No, the greatest danger to our loved ones is the other parents – those who have not yet decided to let their children walk to school alone. In fact, they have decided not to even walk them to school themselves.

These pampered youngsters are chauffeur driven virtually to the school gate regardless of the congestion that poses on the roads, the parking mayhem and threat to the safety of all heading to school that day.

I have been appalled to receive a letter from my children's primary school reminding parents not to mount the pavement after one small child was hit on the head by a wing mirror. Do schools really have to ask parents not to drive on the pavement as the droves of children head for the gate?

What a shining example these parents are to their children that will jump in the car at the first droplet of rain.

Surely any parent can sacrifice an extra few minutes in bed so they can leave the house in time and walk their child to school. Is it any wonder so many children actively avoid physical exercise and only enjoy sport through a TV screen and games console?

It's true to say that some families live too far away from the school to reasonably be expected to walk. But that doesn't mean they can't park up in a safe area away from the school rush and walk the last bit. How many cars do you see parked up outside primary schools 30 minutes before the bell to get a prime spot!

The problem of child obesity in Britain at this time is widely acknowledged and parents must take some of the blame for this.

October is International Walk to School month. Is there any better time to rouse our children from their pits a little earlier in the morning in time to walk to school?

Just think of all that extra time we will have to hold a conversation with them.

So for the sake of all of our children, mums and dads, get off your backside and off the road.

Diane Davies

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