They are barely larger than the knapsack they carry on their backs. And they are excited, a whole new period of life begins. And for some, the path may not even be 100 percent. Around 1,200 girls and boys from the Höxter district have their very first day of school on Thursday, 30 August. At the latest from the following Friday, the little ones will go on the daily way to school. So that the steppes arrive safely, city, police and traffic watch gives important tips.
On foot
Most children are at school. The youngsters did not only gain experience. “Movement and fresh air before the class start also increase the ability to concentrate,” informs the Höxter district police, but because they perceive their surroundings differently from adults, they are in traffic especially at risk.
Go the way up to ten times
The Verkehrswacht advises parents to walk the path five to ten times with their offspring. Even at the beginning of school, the adults should still be there. “Because there is more traffic than at holiday time,” says Oliver. Parents should not forget their role model function, especially with regard to traffic lights and crossing aid and mobile phone use.
First of all, the Verkehrswacht recommends that the children do not go to school in groups. “Until they are safe on the way to school and recognize danger spots,” says Thane, because alone, the little ones usually learned better and were less distracting. “Thereafter, nothing speaks against dating,” says the traffic expert. Especially in the dark season, Thane advises “visible reflective clothing.” Safety vests, reflectors, satchels or flashing shoes which made with reflective fabrics, “There is even reflective yarn, especially creative parents can knit hats.”
Police are present on the first days
In the first few days, the police will be present on the school routes. “Help and education are in the foreground,” a statement said, and officials are also announcing increased speed measurements and checks on child seats, bus and bicycle traffic.
By bicycle
By bike only older children should go to school. “It’s not until they’re 14 that the ability to ride safely develops,” the police said, adding that the ability to focus on road traffic over a longer period of time does not train boys and girls until they are about eight years old.
By bus
Not every village in the district has its own elementary school. Many males will take the school bus. “Bus driving should also be practiced,” advises Oliver Thane, “Dangerous situations usually appear when getting in,” says the expert. Therefore, not only the way to the stop but also the getting in and out as well as sitting down should be trained. The school bus stops are on the right side of the street.
Parental taxis should use parking in the area
“On the way back, things can be different”, Thane points out, so children could suddenly run across the street behind the bus, so the police are also calling for stopping school buses to “pass by in two directions at walking pace”.
By car
The most convenient way to get to school is certainly the parental taxi. If you bring your own child to school by car, you should not chauffeur it all the way to the schoolyard. “Due to the pressure of the vehicle, there is a high-risk potential,” the city of Höxter informs on NW request, “Parking space in the area should be used for getting in and out.”