Parents
About this page
Many parents expect their children to walk or ride to school. They understand that there are many learning opportunities on the way to school, as well as at school. Evidence is mounting that inactive children are at much greater risk of lifelong disease and even early mortality. For example, Diabetes 2 has only appeared in the subteen population in the last decade.
Active Play
VicHealth is concerned at the declining levels of physical activity among children. Here's their Fact Sheet on Children and Play.
Bike Ed - it's now a holiday activity
The Ride2School team has made it possible for students to do Bike Ed as part of a holiday program. In January, 13 participants joined the two day course at Wesley College and learnt all about their bikes and how to ride them safely. They also had lots of fun.
Childhood Obesity
Blocked arteries, liver problems, Type 2 diabetes: conditions linked to obesity are no longer just affecting middle-aged Australians; now it's our children too
Ensuring they are safe on the road
As a parent or guardian you are a role model for your child's riding. Riding with you and observing your road behaviour will have a great influence on your child's own road behaviour. Here's some ideas.
Families Ride to School!
Check out this great story about a group of parents in suburban Melbourne who have organised their own "riding school bus".
Is Your Child Ready?
Children mature at different rates both physically and emotionally. As a general rule, a ten year old has developed the peripheral vision and road sense necessary for independent riding. However, some children younger than this seem ready, and others who are older don't seem ready.
Jenni's Ride2School Day Story
My daughters were over the moon about riding to school. Paige cannot wait until next year when she can ride her bike to school unaccompanied by me. I imagine it's that sense of independence and freedom that all kids want and which riding provides.
Obesity Epidemic Hits Students Hard
The Herald Sun is reporting on the disatrous consequences of unhealthy lifestyles for children. Here's more evidence that the health and fitness of young people is an issue for us all.
Pedal Pods
Pedal Pods or Cycling School Buses are similar to Walking School Buses; yet there are some extra things to consider when organising a Pedal Pod.
Pedal Pods power Surf Coast students to school
Do you live in the Surf Coast Shire and want your child to cycle to school but don't always have the time or ability to supervise their journey?
Risk Management
We work to ensure that any students involved in Ride2School at their school are skilled and responsible bike riders, competent road users and careful pedestrians.
Some statistics
Spensley Street parents get active
Spensely St Primary School are leaders in promoting walking and riding to school.