Many children can t judge how fast vehicles are going or how far away they are. Children learn by example, so parents and carers should always use the Code in full when out with their children. Because children are still developing the skills to judge the speed and distance of vehicles, children under 11 should not be cycling in traffic. Once children are ready to make the journey to school alone, reduce the risk of accidents by making them easily seen. Bright or fluorescent clothes show up best by day, especially in dull or misty weather, but fluorescent clothing doesn t work after dark.
Reflective material does.
Explain to them why they should always wear something bright or fluorescent, especially at night. Point out people who are endangering themselves or others. Check the routes to school and discuss together how to deal with any dangers. Get your child to practise judging speed and distance of approaching vehicles on a busy road and identifying safe gaps for crossing. Stress they should never blindly follow others across the road.