More kids walking to school, VicHealth says

New research from VicHealth has found almost one in three primary school students take part in the initiative’s annual Walk to School month.

Last year, an estimated 186,600 students walked, rode or scooted to school during October – the highest number achieved in the program’s 14-year history.

An independent survey of Victorian parents and carers revealed those with children who took part in Walk to School 2019 were more likely than parents of kids who didn’t take part to view active travel as:

• Good for their children’s health (90 per cent of participating parents/carers vs 84 per cent of non-participating parents/carers)
• A practical way to help their child get 60 minutes of physical activity a day (84 per cent vs 79 per cent of non-participating parents)
• Helpful for developing their child’s independence (83 per cent vs 77 per cent of non-participating parents)
• An opportunity for their child to chat with friends (72 per cent vs 60 per cent of non-participating parents).

However, the survey found a fear of judgement was a barrier for many parents, with close to half worried other parents would disapprove if their children walked to school without adult supervision.

To encourage higher participation in Walk to School month and long-term behavioural change, prizes were awarded to schools that actioned creative ideas to inspire students to get involved.

Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos said it was wonderful to see a record number of Victorian families walking to school.

“Our Victorian primary school kids are embracing physical activity, building independence and socialising with their friends. It’s encouraging to see so many school communities across Victoria walking, riding or scootering to school.

“I hope families will continue to embrace the healthy habits they’ve developed during Walk to School by staying active during the year.”

Torquay Coast Primary School was among a number of Victorian schools that participated in the initiative for the first time last year.