Learning to travel safely: It's about more than just stop signs and traffic lights

by Fionnuala Quinn

When you think about being safe on the streets, you probably picture traffic signs—like stop signs and traffic lights. But did you know that signs are just one small part of a much bigger system?

Our world is filled with streets, sidewalks, trails, and intersections. On top of that, there are rules, good habits, and ways people communicate without even speaking! Kids like you are learning how to move safely through this “built environment” every day, whether you’re walking, biking, or riding a scooter.

Why It’s Different for Kids

Kids face special challenges when moving around:

• You’re smaller, so drivers might not see you as easily, especially near parked cars.

• Your brain is still learning how to judge speed and distance.

• You’re still practicing how to predict what others might do.

Meanwhile, vehicles—especially big ones like trucks and SUVs—can be hard to see around, and they move fast. That’s why learning good safety skills is so important!

Important Safety Skills to Learn

Moving safely isn’t just about memorizing traffic signs. It’s about building good habits and strong judgment skills.

Here are some important things to practice:

• Know where it’s safe to walk, ride, and play. Stick to sidewalks, trails, and parks.

• Watch how vehicles move. Learn to spot cars that are coming, turning, or backing up.

• Pay attention to how fast things move-including you! Be prepared to slow down, stop. Remember, vehicles can’t stop too quickly. Don’t take chances.

• Understand why rules matter. It’s not just "because an adult says so"—rules help keep everyone safe.

• Cross streets the smart way. Look left, right, and left again before stepping into the road.

• Learn what signs and signals mean. A stop sign means STOP and check. A yield sign means slow down and be ready to let others go first. Traffic lights tell you when it’s safe to cross.

• Notice other people. Watch for walkers, bikers, and drivers. Guess what they might do next!

• Practice with adults. Grown-ups can help you learn, until you’re ready to travel more on your own.

  
  

Growing Your Independence

Over time, you’ll build the skills to move safely and smartly by yourself. Remember, knowing what a traffic sign means is important—but it’s only one piece of the bigger safety puzzle.

Stay alert, think ahead, and practice safe habits every day. That’s how you become a strong, smart traveler in your neighborhood and beyond!