Ask the Insider
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When is International Walk to School Day in 2013?
Walk to School Day will take place on October 9 in 2013.
Meanwhile, join in the fun of Bike to School Day on May 8, 2013, and visit Keep...
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When is National Bike to School Day in 2013?
National Bike to School Day 2013 was held on May 8; in 2014 National Bike to School Day will be held on May 7. Be a part of International Walk to School Day on October 9, 2013...
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I'm looking for song ideas to play when students arrive at the school. Any ideas?
Great question! Music is a great way to make your event fun for everyone. If you are thinking about playing music, perhaps you might like the...
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What if it’s not safe to walk or bike?
Some schools have significant barriers that make it very difficult for students to walk or bike. Even if this is the case, you still have options. Organize an...
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How Far Can Students Be Expected to Walk or Bike?
Many schools have walking/bicycling “zones,” that tend to be a half mile to 2 miles around the school. Obviously, it’s easier to go further on a bicycle than on foot. As a rule of thumb, walking...
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Are there ways to build on a walking or biking event throughout the year?
Absolutely! If students and parents show an interest in walking and biking to school more often, check out tips on how to Keep Going!
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Do you have tips for approaching sponsors and recruiting volunteers?
It may sound obvious, but ask partners and volunteers what they would like to contribute rather than assigning tasks. People’s interests may surprise you. Teachers may want to lead walking groups...
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What if I am not sure if a walking or biking event is a good fit for my school?
There are many considerations appropriate before holding a walk or bike to school event. Learn more about the reasons to walk or bike to school, how to...
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What should children wear?
Encourage participants to wear brightly colored clothing and comfortable shoes for walking or biking. Many states require children to wear a bike helmet when riding a bicycle. Even if it is not...
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What happens if it rains?
Coordinators should state in event announcements ahead of time whether the event will be held “rain or shine,” or whether there will be an alternate rain date.
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Who can participate?
Ideally, a Walk or Bike to School Day involves ALL students, including those with disabilities and...
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What inspired International Walk to School Month? Didn’t it used to just be a day?
In 2006, the International Walk to School Committee, consisting of representatives from several countries, promoted Walk to School for the entire month of October to include more countries around...
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How can I incorporate walking to school in my community's everyday activities?
You can visit our Keep Going! section for ideas on how to institute year-round walking and biking programs at your school. For more information, see the...
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How do I get the local media involved?
When media cover your event, they help spread the word of the great health, safety, environmental and social benefits of more children walking to school every day. In the...
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How can I contact other event coordinators in my area?
The web site maintains a comprehensive list by state and city of the registered events in your area. Here you are able to see the contact information of other...
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What is the Walkability Checklist?
The walkability checklist is a simple five-question checklist that adults and children can use to examine their neighborhoods...
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Do you have any materials for Walk to School Day organizers?
Yes! Registration of your event gives access to printable sticker templates and other promotional materials. Printable flyers, banners, activities and other...
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Why is the event being held?
Communities choose to participate for many reasons including to promote physical activity, pedestrian safety or concern for the environment. If there is a specific reason behind the event,...
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What kind of activities should I plan for that day?
The event can be as simple as encouraging children and parents to walk to school together. Some communities choose a remote meeting place so that all families walk together parade-style. Upon...
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What is a walking school bus?
A walking school bus is a group of children accompanied by one or more adults on the walk to or from school. The group may meet at...