Tips for a Successful Walking
or Bicycling Group

Get to know the parents and students in your child’s group to feel confident your student will be in good hands. If you like, Smart Ways to School staff can arrange an informal get-together for parents to meet each other.

Guides should wear a safety vest. Students should wear high-visibility clothing, proper footwear, consider bringing a water bottle, and carry adequate raingear and clothing for inclement weather. Also, consider carrying safety lights.

Plan a pedestrian- or bike-friendly route to school. Pause at pre-planned “stops” to add participating students to your group as you travel. Contact Smart Ways to Schoo if you would like help with choosing a route and preparing maps.

Always follow pedestrian or bicycling rules and safety guidelines. Cross streets using marked pedestrian areas or bicycle lanes whenever possible.

Maintain a schedule that allows a margin of time. Plan in advance how changes to the usual routine will be handled. Organize a “phone tree” list so last-minute changes can be communicated quickly to your group.

Establish group ground rules that could include:

• Children should be ready and waiting.
• Decide who will be at the end of the group, making sure the group stays together.

Have fun! You could name your group, decorate your backpacks or bicycles, and do something fun with your group’s families from time to time.