Thousands of school children across Canterbury-Bankstown will put their best foot forward this Friday, as part of Walk Safely to School Day.

Now in its 21st year, National Walk Safely to School Day is an annual event where all primary school-aged children are encouraged to walk and commute safely to school.

“There has never been a better time to build walking into our kid’s daily routine, by walking to and from school, not just on Friday 14 May, but every day,” Mayor Asfour said.

“Walking to school is a great form of exercise for you and your children. It reduces the risk of obesity and heart disease, improves mood and generally does wonders for your young adventurer’s mind and body.

“Aside from the obvious health benefits, it also gives parents the opportunity to teach their children about road safety and explain ways to stay safe.”

Here’s five top tips for parents to help get their kids walking to school:

Walk some or if you can, walk all the way to school;
Get off the bus or train a few stops earlier and walk the rest of the way;
Leave the car at least one-kilometre away from school and walk the rest of the way;
Set your alarm 30 minutes earlier to fit in a walk to school; and
If you can’t walk in the morning, walk home after school.

For more information, visit www.walk.com.au/wstsd