St. Luke's is now UnityPoint Health | St. Luke's. A new name. A new day in health care. - Learn More -

St. Luke's Regional Medical Center

2720 Stone Park Blvd.
Sioux City, Iowa
51104

(712) 279-3500

Share Share

Walk and Bike Safe to School

There is a growing need to encourage kids to be more physical active, so what simpler way to get started than by choosing to walk or bike to school? St. Luke's is invested in helping kids and parents adopt practices that promote both health and safety. Look here first for resources to get more active, practice safety and understand the health benefits.  

The Importance of Regular Physical Activity for Children

The United States has seen a decrease in the number of children who are physically active and an increase in the number of children who are overweight.

  • Nearly half of young people aged 12-21 years in the United States are not vigorously active on a regular basis.
  • About 14% of young people report no recent physical activity.
  • Over the past 30 years the percent of overweight children aged 6 to 11 years has more than doubled.
  • These facts are provided courtesy of the CDC. Learn more!

Now is the time to curb this trend and encourage more physical activity for kids!Get started with some safety tips to help your child walk or bike to school safely!

Travel Safely

  • Always wear a bicycle helmet when biking. Make sure the helmet is properly fitted and fastened, and that it is approved by ANSI, ASTM, or Snell.
  • Before going across the street (on bike or foot), you should stop, look left, look right, look left again, and listen to be sure no traffic is approaching.
  • Cross the street only at the crosswalk.
  • When riding your bike, walk it across the street at crosswalks.
  • Know and use hand signals.
  • Obey all traffic rules.
  • Travel in groups and avoid interaction with strangers.
  • Remember Stranger Danger Rules.
  • Dress appropriately for weather conditions. Choose comfortable shoes and layer when possible.

Now you know the health importance and the safety rules, still looking for an incentive to get started? Contact your local school and ask for a "Walk Safe to School" day that involves the kids, parents and staff of your school building. On September 28, 2011 the Sioux City School's is partnering with St. Luke's, SIMPCO and other community groups to launch the first "Walk Safe to School" day with Washington Elementary. Request that your school follow action!

Start the School Year Right! Resources to Help Walk or Bike to School:

For Parents:

For Kids: