Take a second to look back, a little further, a little further... Let's see. Yes, right there. The first lessons of our driver's education are hidden somewhere in our prefrontal cortex, and that's why we sometimes have a hard time finding them. But if we look closely, we'll remember that wonderful time when we explored the world with the curious eyes of a child and everything that happened around us was highly questionable, including life on the road. It was then that we first discovered the basics of driver's education, and it happened precisely thanks to those who cared about protecting our safety : on the way to school with Dad, coloring in the traffic lights the teacher drew, or when our grandparents took us on a trip to the beach and we played guessing games about the traffic signs. We soon learned that we should stop at a red light and only proceed when it turns green, that we should cross streets where a zebra crossing was drawn on the ground, and that we should fasten our seatbelts as soon as we got into the car. This learning of traffic rules , which begins in childhood and continues throughout our youth to transform us into the first-rate drivers we are today, is known as " traffic education ."
International Day of Road Safety Education
Every October 5th, on Road Safety Day , people around the world are reminded of the need to continue raising awareness about the importance of knowing traffic rules. The goal of this day is none other than to prevent future traffic accidents . To achieve this ambitious goal, it's not only vital to instill road safety knowledge among young people but also to promote a civic culture in which drivers and pedestrians coexist in harmony. This is where we, the elderly, have a fundamental role to play. It's not enough to simply teach concepts and theory in schools; road safety education is also the transmission of our own values by leading by example .So, what can I do to improve my children's road safety?
- Children imitate everything they see, so try to be a good driver and a better pedestrian. Remember that you are their role model and don't commit violations, as children assume their parents always do the right thing.
- Seat belts are essential . Don't start the car until everyone is wearing their seat belts. Explain to them how important it is to prevent injuries they could suffer in an accident if they don't wear them.
- Road safety is fun . Who doesn't love to play? Create games to teach them the basic rules; you can find some practical examples online or in Get Driving activities . You'll have fun together and learn, too!
- Do not disturb the driver. When you are a passenger, behave in an exemplary manner and do not disturb the driver under any circumstances. Explain to children that distractions are dangerous and can cause an accident.
- Every gesture counts . Remember that children imitate our behaviors. Be a good example for your children and be mindful of details, such as parking your car properly. Don't park in places that aren't allowed.
