Many of us remember the words of our parents when we first wanted to cross the street to greet our neighbors, get the mail, or some other activity. “Look both ways before you cross!”
![What Parents Should Teach Their Kids About Being a Safe Pedestrian [One Minute Feature]](https://licensetoparent.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/safe-walk.jpg)
Today, it seems full-grown adults have a hard time looking up before they walk, let alone looking both ways! When raising a child, parents must continue to emphasize the importance being a respectful and safe pedestrian.
How Being a Respectful and Safe Pedestrian Starts by Looking Up
For eons, one thing we have all learned in drivers ed is that pedestrians have the right-of-way. My wife and I were talking the other day. Her and I noticed that, for about the last decade or so, nobody seems to care about walking in front of a moving 3,500 pound motor vehicle. They don’t even look up!
This is whether you’re on a roadway or a parking lot. Right-of-way or not, discuss with your kids the rudeness—not to mention the danger—of nonchalantly walking in front of a moving vehicle without at least looking. Remember, drivers are used to driving on a surface originally designed for motor vehicles. We can’t assume they are always alert.
Not only is this a lesson in common sense and safety; it is a lesson in character also.
Picture Provided by: Airman Ashley J. Woolridge
