Help Your Child Cross the Street Safely

Reviewing important tips can help your child be a safe pedestrian.

"Parents need to teach children to be safe, responsible pedestrians before permitting them to walk unsupervised," says Dr. Erin Endom, an emergency-room physician at Texas Children's Hospital. "That means reminders to stop, look and listen before crossing the street."

Walk with your children until you are sure they can cross the street safely. Show them how to interpret pedestrian and traffic signs and signals. Explain the role of school crossing guards. Caution them to remain on the sidewalk until they are ready to cross. Set an example by crossing only at street corners or designated crosswalks.

For added safety, encourage children to walk together. Tell them never to approach a strange vehicle. Use bright colors or reflective clothing to make children more visible.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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