A new article from Atlantic Cities points to some interesting research that shows that kids who get driven everywhere simply never gain a firm understanding of their community and their neighborhoods.
According to the story, children who had a “windshield perspective” from being driven everywhere weren’t able to accurately draw how the streets in their community connected, whereas children who walked or biked to get around produced detailed and highly accurate maps of their neighborhood street network.
This is one of the many reasons why implementing Safe Routes to School programs in all of our schools is so important. Are you interested in doing something, or learning more? A good way to get started is to get involved in the first ever statewide New Jersey Walk and Bike to School Week, May 21-25, 2012. Contact GMTMA at rhersh@gmtma.org to see how your community can get in on all of the fun!