Active Living for Children

Walking and cycling are easy ways for children to become more independent. Getting to places they need to go, on foot or by bike also gives them the opportunity to spend time outdoors. Choosing to walk to places that are less than 2 km and cycle to places that are less than 7 km saves time. 

To school we go!

There are lots of benefits in the classroom for children that walk or cycle to school on a regular basis. Some of these benefits include improved concentration and better coping with stress. Being outside helps to prevent feelings of isolation and increases their social interactions. Walking and biking to school can also save you money and lead to fewer cars on the road. 

Visit our safety section for more tips on walking and cycling.

Visit the Ottawa Public Health Cycling page for bike maps and tips. Check out the Walking page for local walking and hiking resources. Ottawa.ca also has information on the new pedestrian crossovers and bike repair stations. The Ontario Ministry of Transportation website reviews the road safety laws.

Walking School Bus and Active Transportation

Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Finding ways to fit this in daily routine is hard for busy families. Making the choice to send your child to school on foot is a great way to be active.

Parents often worry about their child's safety while walking alone . A way to make sure your child is safe while walking to school is with a 'walking school bus.'

A volunteer led walking school bus is when a group of children walk to school with an adult. This is usually a parent or care giver of one of the students on the walking school bus.

For parents who work, a walking school bus may be a great choice. You may only need to lead the 'walking school bus' once a week if many families join. Your child will benefit from regular physical activity and the time you need to give may be small.

There is also a walking school bus program that is led by a trained leader.  Speak to your school principal about this exciting program currently run by Student Transportation Authority and Ottawa Safety Council.

While taking part in a walking school bus, your child will enjoy seeing friends on the way to school. They will be active more often.

Here are some tips for a walking school bus:

• Invite families who live nearby to walk
• Pick a route and take a test walk
• Take side streets and paths that are less busy with traffic
• Decide how often the group will walk together
• Talk with your boss to adjust your day
• Have fun!

For more information visit EnviroCentre: School Active Transportation Program, or Ottawa Public Health or contact Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744.

Learn more about helmet cycling safety. 

Check out a walking school bus in action. Hear some experiences of the Ottawa Walking School Bus Program - currently run by the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority and Ottawa Safety Council: