POWER UP FOR WALK TO SCHOOL MONTH THIS OCTOBER

2.05.08pm GMT Mon 22nd Sep 2008

This October will see children around Solihull discover the health benefits of regular walking, in celebration of International Walk to School Month.

Only one-third of boys and girls aged 2-11 achieve the recommended level of activity to benefit their health through activity undertaken outside of school (Health Survey for England 2002). By encouraging families to ditch the car keys and get to school on foot, this Month of activities will highlight that it's not just PE lessons that are needed to give children the healthiest start - it's how active you are in your daily life that really matters.

International Walk to School month, run in the UK by national charity Living Streets and funded by the Department for Transport, will see pupils boost their energy levels with a fantastic variety of walking events and challenges.

Solihull's MP, Lorely Burt joined parents, teachers and children from Yew Tree Primary School earlier this year to encourage children walking to school (photograph attached).

Lorely said:

"Teachers often report that those pupils who walk to school are more attentive in class. And it's no surprise - the levels of physical activity undertaken by primary school age children are often greatly overestimated by parents. By simply walking to school and back each day, the average child will already be spending more time physically active than is provided for by the national curriculum."

"Walking to school is a brilliant way to get exercise and some fresh air into your day. When children are bundled from front door to car door, they miss out on the opportunity to socialise with friends, get to know their community, and burn off some energy before getting their heads down in the books.

Tony Armstrong, Chief Executive of Living Streets, said:

"If we are to avoid the Government's spectre of a quarter of our children being obese by 2050, we need to start making changes to our lifestyle now. We would love everyone who normally drives the school run to use this month as an excuse to try walking. We think you'll be amazed at how enjoyable a regular walk can be; a chance to spend real quality time together, and reap health rewards for all the family."