Walk or Bike to School or for Errands When Possible

So, apparently walking or biking to school isn’t just for those Instagram-perfect families who own matching raincoats. Turns out, it’s a real thing actual humans do—sometimes even with everyone’s shoes on the right feet. If you’ve ever wondered whether your kid’s backpack could double as a kettlebell, or if you secretly hope the walk will tire them out before 8am (spoiler: it won’t), this might be your jam.

Walking or biking together gets everyone’s brains firing—hello, endorphins! For kids, it boosts focus, mood, and all those fancy executive functions teachers love. For you, it’s a sneaky way to lower stress, get some vitamin D, and maybe even have a conversation longer than ‘Where are your shoes?’ Plus, moving together builds connection and gives you a front-row seat to the wild world of kid commentary (‘Look, a stick!’).

How to do it

  1. Pick a day when you’re not running 17 minutes late. Miracles happen, so try to give yourself plenty of time.

  2. Check the weather before you head out. Decide if you’ll need rain boots or sunglasses—it's your call.

  3. Pack only the essentials. Unless you enjoy carrying six rocks home, keep your bag light.

  4. Set a realistic pace. Think “leisurely parade,” not “Olympic sprint.” Enjoy the journey.

  5. Talk about what you see along the way, or just enjoy the silence. Quiet moments are rare, but magical.

  6. Celebrate surviving the trek! Give a high five, have a dance, or collapse on the couch—whatever feels right.

Key Tips:

  • Plan ahead to avoid feeling rushed.
  • Dress for the weather to stay comfortable.
  • Only bring what you truly need.
  • Take your time and soak in your surroundings.
  • Embrace conversation or quiet, depending on the mood.
  • Mark the end of your adventure with a fun ritual.

When you grab your keys in the morning.

Pause and ask, ‘Could we walk or bike today instead?’
Do a tiny fist pump or tell your kid, ‘We’re adventurers now!’
Leave your sneakers and your kid’s helmet by the front door.

When you check the weather app each morning.

Look at the route and imagine the first 30 seconds of your walk.
Give yourself a mental gold star for even considering it.
Map out the shortest, safest walking/biking route to school or the store.

When your kid puts on their shoes.

Say, ‘Let’s try walking to the mailbox together!’
Let your kid pick the first silly walk style for the journey.
Put a small snack or sticker in your bag as a ‘walk reward’.