International Walk to School Day isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s about turning the journey into a celebration! Whether you're a student, a parent, or even a teacher, this special day is your chance to lace up your sneakers and get moving together.
History
The first-ever Walk to School Day happened in 1997 in Chicago, Illinois. It started as a simple idea: promote pedestrian safety and get kids moving.
The event caught on quickly because it was both fun and meaningful. Soon, more schools across the U.S. joined the movement.
By 2000, the idea had gone global. That’s when International Walk to School Day was officially launched, bringing the celebration to countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia.
Now, every October, students in more than 40 countries hit the sidewalks to celebrate the joy of walking to school.
In 2016, schools in Virginia decided to make International Walk to School Day unforgettable.
And they did—by breaking the world record for the largest number of schools participating in Walk to School Day!
How To Celebrate
1. Plan a Walking Route
Before the big day, map out a safe route that works for your family or group. Stick to sidewalks, cross at crosswalks, and pick spots where you’ll be clearly visible to drivers.
2. Invite Friends and Neighbors
The more, the merrier! Ask classmates, neighbors, and other families to walk with you. Form a walking group or even a “walking school bus,” where adults supervise a group of students walking together.
3. Get Creative with Signs and Outfits
Make signs like “Walk, Don’t Ride!” or “Happy Walk to School Day!” Wear bright colors, decorate your backpacks, or even wear costumes—just make sure you’re safe and visible.
Amazing Facts
Over 40 countries now participate in International Walk to School Day.
The largest U.S. event happened in Virginia, where over 360 schools joined in one year.
A person burns around 100 calories per mile while walking—not bad for a trip to school!
Most walking events also promote road safety, helping reduce pedestrian accidents.
Why We Love
1. Great Exercise
Let’s be honest—kids (and grown-ups) need to move more, and walking is great exercise for the whole body. Walking to school gets your heart pumping, muscles working, and brain ready for learning.
2. It Teaches Kids Traffic Laws
When you walk with a parent, teacher, or friend, it’s a great chance to learn the rules of the road. It teaches kids traffic laws, like how to use crosswalks, obey signs, and look both ways. Safe walkers = smart kids!
3. It Builds Community
There’s something awesome about seeing the sidewalks filled with smiling kids, chatting parents, and helpful volunteers. You feel like you’re part of something bigger—and that’s a great feeling to start your day with!
4. It's Good for the Planet
Fewer cars on the road means less air pollution, less traffic, and a happier Earth. Every step you take on International Walk to School Day helps the environment just a little bit more.
Faq's
1. When is International Walk to School Day celebrated?
It’s usually observed on the first Wednesday of October each year, though some schools choose a different nearby date.
2. What is the purpose of IWTSD?
The event encourages students and families to walk to school, promoting health, safety, environmental awareness, and community connection.
3. Who participates in IWTSD?
Students, families, teachers, and schools from over 40 countries, including all U.S. states, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico, take part annually.
4. Is this just about walking?
Not at all. IWTSD also teaches traffic laws, highlights safe routes, and starts conversations about healthy transportation habits.
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