The best way to protect children near traffic is to hold their hands. Young children do not make effective use of their hearing and vision, and lack the skills to make safe decisions when in the road traffic environment.
Young children need adult support. Wherever you are, on a quiet road or busy one, in a carpark or on a footpath, hold each child's hand securely.
If an adult's hand is not available, help children to hold onto a pram, your bag or clothing. If possible, put your hand over the child's hand for added security, for example, push the pram or stroller together.
Give lots of positive feedback and encouragement when children hold your hand.
Children may be able to tell you how to cross the road but this does
not mean they have the skills and understanding to cross safely without
an adult's supervision.
Children may be able to recite road safety messages but not understand what they mean nor put them into practice.
Listen to what children say about pedestrian safety. You may need to change the words you use with children to make your meaning clearer.
Be a safe role model yourself and talk with the children in your care about all the things you do to keep safe.
Copyright 2005 Macquarie University
