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Essential Road Safety Measures for Children

Teaching children about road safety is crucial for helping them stay safe and aware of potential hazards on the streets. Children are naturally curious and often impulsive, so instilling these safety habits early can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Below are essential road safety measures that children should understand and follow to promote their safety as pedestrians, cyclists, and passengers in vehicles.

1. Understanding Traffic Signals and Signs

Children should learn the basic traffic signals and signs, as these will guide their actions on the road. Teaching them the meaning of these signals fosters awareness and confidence.

Traffic Light Colors:
Red means stop: Children should learn to recognize this signal as an indicator to halt before crossing.
Green means go: This signal indicates it’s safe to cross, but they should still look both ways.
Yellow means slow down or prepare to stop: It’s essential to teach children that yellow lights signal caution.

Pedestrian Signs:
Familiarize children with pedestrian signs, such as the “walk” signal and “do not walk” signs, which indicate safe areas to walk and when to wait.
Common Road Signs:
Explain stop signs, pedestrian crossings, and speed limit signs to help children recognize areas where they need to exercise caution.

Understanding these signals helps children feel more confident and informed when walking near roads or crossing streets. This foundational knowledge is vital for their safety and encourages them to take responsibility for their own safety.

2. The Importance of Using Crosswalks and Sidewalks

Using designated crosswalks and sidewalks is one of the safest ways for children to navigate busy roads.

Always Use Crosswalks:
Teach children that crossing at designated crosswalks is the safest method to get across the street. Remind them to wait for the “walk” signal when available.

Stay on Sidewalks:
Children should be encouraged to stick to sidewalks and avoid straying into the street. Sidewalks provide a buffer between pedestrians and vehicles, enhancing safety.

Using these designated areas reduces the likelihood of accidents and keeps children safer when they are near traffic. Emphasizing the importance of crosswalks and sidewalks establishes good habits that they will carry into adulthood.

3. Looking Left, Right, and Left Again

One of the most basic yet essential safety habits is teaching children to look both ways before crossing any street:

Look Left-Right-Left:
Encourage them to look left, then right, and left again before stepping into the road. This ensures they catch any oncoming traffic from either direction.

Be Alert for Turning Vehicles:
Remind children that even at crosswalks, vehicles might be turning. They should stay alert for any movement.

Practicing this habit consistently helps children remember to double-check for any vehicles before crossing. This simple act can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

4. Avoiding Distractions While Walking

With technology and other distractions around, children need to understand the importance of staying focused when crossing streets:

No Phones or Headphones:
Using a phone or listening to music can diminish their awareness of traffic. Encourage them to put these devices away while walking.

Stay Focused:
Discuss how even small distractions can lead to dangerous situations on the road.

By paying full attention, children can make safer decisions and react quickly to any unexpected hazards. This emphasis on focus promotes their overall safety while walking.

5. Understanding the Dangers of Running Near Roads

Children often enjoy running and playing, but they need to learn that roads aren’t the place for it:

No Running Near Roads:
Explain to children why running close to or across streets can be dangerous. They may miss seeing a vehicle or misjudge distance, leading to accidents.

Walk, Don’t Run Across Streets:
Even when using crosswalks, children should walk, not run, to avoid tripping or stepping out unexpectedly.

Creating this rule reinforces the idea that roads are places to move carefully and attentively. Instilling this knowledge helps children recognize the inherent dangers of rushing near traffic.

6. The Importance of Visibility

Ensuring children are visible to drivers is a key part of road safety:

Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing:
Teach children to wear bright or reflective clothing, especially when walking during early morning or evening hours, when visibility is lower.

Use Reflective Accessories:
Encourage the use of reflective armbands, backpacks, and jackets to help drivers spot them more easily in low-light conditions.

Improving visibility makes it easier for drivers to see children, reducing the risk of accidents. Emphasizing visibility can help children understand how their clothing choices impact their safety on the road.

7. Understanding Safe and Unsafe Play Areas

Children often play outside, but they should understand that not all areas are safe for play:

Play in Safe Zones:
Teach children to play in designated play areas, such as parks or backyards, rather than near roads.

Avoid Retrieving Objects Near Roads:
If a toy or ball rolls onto the street, children should know to ask an adult to retrieve it rather than running after it.

By knowing safe places to play, children can avoid unintentionally running into traffic. Instilling awareness about safe play areas can help minimize the risk of accidents.

8. Respecting Traffic Rules as a Passenger

Road safety isn’t just about being a pedestrian—it also includes safety as a passenger in a car:

Always Wear a Seatbelt:
Instill the habit of buckling up every time they’re in a car, even for short trips. This basic rule is crucial for their safety.

Stay Seated and Calm:
Explain that moving around or being noisy in the car can distract the driver, potentially leading to accidents.

Use Age-Appropriate Seats:
Ensure children use the right car seat, booster seat, or seat belt based on their age and size.

These habits ensure children are safe and secure as passengers, reducing the risk of injury in case of sudden stops or accidents. Teaching these principles can help them appreciate the importance of traffic laws and personal safety.

9. Teaching Children to Make Eye Contact with Drivers

One way to reinforce safety while crossing the street is to encourage children to make eye contact with drivers:

Make Eye Contact:
Teach children to look at drivers and ensure they see them before crossing the road. This simple act can create a connection that increases safety.

Be Cautious with Driver Behavior:
Discuss how not all drivers may be attentive, and children should remain vigilant even after making eye contact.

Making eye contact reinforces the importance of being proactive about their safety. This habit fosters a sense of responsibility and awareness that is vital for navigating busy streets.

10. Involving Children in Road Safety Discussions

Involving children in discussions about road safety helps them take ownership of their safety:

Encourage Questions:
Create an environment where children feel comfortable asking questions about road safety. This can lead to greater understanding and retention of important safety measures.

Role-Playing Scenarios:
Engage children in role-playing scenarios where they can practice safe behaviors, such as crossing the street or behaving as a passenger in a vehicle.

Involve Them in Safety Planning:
Discuss routes to school or other frequent destinations, highlighting safe practices along the way.

Involving children in their own safety planning promotes empowerment and awareness. By encouraging them to think critically about road safety, they are more likely to internalize these measures. they are more likely to internalize these measures.

Conclusion

Teaching children essential road safety measures is not just about preventing accidents; it is about instilling lifelong habits that promote awareness and responsibility. By understanding traffic signals, using crosswalks, avoiding distractions, and respecting safety rules, children can navigate their environments with confidence and caution. As they grow and become more independent, these lessons will serve as a foundation for their safety, not only as pedestrians but also as passengers and cyclists. Road safety education is a continuous journey that involves parents, educators, and the community working together to create a safe environment for children. By fostering an awareness of road safety from a young age, we equip children with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe and make informed decisions when navigating the roads. Ultimately, creating a culture of road safety helps protect our most vulnerable road users and ensures that they can enjoy their freedom while remaining safe in their explorations of the world.

FAQs

What should I teach my child to do if they need to cross a street alone?

First, make sure they’re old enough and understand the key rules: only cross at crosswalks, look left-right-left before stepping off the curb, and wait for the “walk” signal at traffic lights. Teach them to make eye contact with drivers to ensure they’re seen and to avoid running or getting distracted while crossing

What can I do to ensure my child is visible to drivers, especially in low-light conditions?

Encourage your child to wear bright-colored clothing during the day and reflective accessories (like armbands, stickers, or backpacks) in low-light conditions. If they walk to school or other places in the early morning or evening, these measures help drivers see them more easily and keep them safe.

What should my child know about safety when riding a bicycle or scooter near roads?

Teach your child to always wear a helmet and use proper safety gear. Make sure they understand the importance of riding on designated paths or sidewalks, avoiding busy roads, and staying alert to their surroundings. Emphasize the importance of following all traffic signals, stopping at intersections, and looking both ways before crossing any street.

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Examinations

PNC Cognitio School, in its full capacity as a K-12 Cambridge International School also serves as an exam center for private candidates from India and around the globe. We offer a wide-range of subject choices from IGCSE, O Level and International AS/A Level to our private candidates. We cater to them through all three available series for Cambridge examinations: March, June and November making it altogether easier for students to easily manage their exam routines.

PNC Cognitio School in its sole aim to provide an illuminated pathway for students to reach universities worldwide is an official PSAT, SAT and Advanced Placement Test Centre (#: 63838) in association with the College Board, US. 

We currently offer all the exam series for SAT, PSAT and AP as offered by the College Board allowing students to seamlessly attempt exams at their own comfortable time and apply to universities with ease. From 2023, students will benefit from digital SAT with better exam experiences and faster results all aided by the advanced systems right here at PNC Cognitio.

With all of the facilities available at PNC Cognitio School, we strive to be a comprehensive package to students, handing over their most powerful passport to quality education around the globe without any hassle in accessibility. 

New Grade Familiarization Week

Any new beginning requires mental preparedness , readiness and handling new information by the mind. Kids are no exception to this as they more dependent on parents to assist them in their decisions and actions. With the kids, it is pivotal to make them feel at home to help them ease in to the new surroundings. New Grade Familiarization week is an important stride towards this aspect. This new initiative started with the academic year 2019 -20. These five days are carefully planned and power packed with academic and co-curricular activities to help children start their new academic year on a high note.

The onboarding process is designed in benefit of new to children build their understanding between newly found friends and teachers. All of them get to know the school culture and get familiar with their environment. Such a program with a caring vision ensures they step into their actual academic periods totally prepared and excited to begin the year long journey. All Grade students were able to start their learning pathway by bonding with teachers and getting valuable insights into their learning objectives for the new academic year. Grade 9 Students for example were able to lay hands on various tools and designs relevant to design and Implementation. It was such an endearing and pleasant sight to watch all young learners get used to the campus and enjoy the program.

PNC School Culture and values imbibe children with immense moral insights and the program is just providing them a taste of what they are going to experience yearlong within the campus along with their mentors.

After School Programs

PNC’s spacious school, a community learning resource, will continue to offer a rich selection of extracurricular activities designed to enhance students’ all-around development. This array of activities is offered during the week and on the weekend. The school strives to earn an excellent State, National, and International reputation for its inter-school sports activities and tournaments.

Regular sports activities include Swimming, Cricket, Basketball, Skating, Football and more.

Support classes in a variety of subject areas will also be a key feature of after-school activities to ensure that any student who requires additional guidance will be able to obtain it. Upcoming activities such as Drama, Arts, Environmental Club, and Music Club will be the new features of the after-school programme. A full range of other accredited skills-based courses designed to develop various future skills will be rolled out as part of the “Skills of the Future Cognition”  development plan, which could include Leadership, ICT, Entrepreneurship, Communication, Gen X Skills, and many more.

Applying learning and developing professional skills are key to our young people’s successful futures.

Child's Learning Partners

Education Professionals – Our highly qualified and motivated teachers have been carefully selected for their teaching excellence and ability to actively engage students in the learning process. We implement an ongoing programme of workshops and professional development sessions, often conducted by noted educationists in around the world, to ensure that our teachers are up to date with the latest developments in educational techniques and methods.

The Senior Leadership Team and a team of Subject Leaders are well experienced and are complemented by professional teachers to meet the needs of our student population.

Partnership with Parents – Parents play an important role in the learning journey of the child at school. At PNC we provide varied platforms for parents to interact with the students thus giving them the real time application of the subjects. Through a regular communication system – written and data reports, SMS, email, and a programme of consultation evenings – parents are regularly updated on the progress of their children and activities in the school. Parents are welcome to discuss their children’s individual progress with the concerned teacher or school Principal or any member of the Senior Leadership Team at a mutually convenient time.

Parent Voice including a monthly forum with the Principal is conducted regularly. These meetings provide an opportunity for all our parents to voice any concerns, suggestions, or ideas they may have.

Child Health & Safety

The health and safety support network is made up of people such as extended family, friends, and community members who will work together in sync with the school to develop and maintain a plan that will ensure long-term safety, belonging, and well-being of our Children. A healthy mind and a healthy body are inseparable, binding upon each other for a productive life.

The purpose of the School Safety and Health Program are:

  1. To promote a healthy lifestyle among students, by providing them with knowledge and skills that will enable them to take responsible decisions to protect their health and well-being.
  2. To build healthy eating habits through the Wholesome Healthy Lunch – The power of 5 food groups.
  3. To enhance the role of students in contributing actively and positively to the national health situation by following various initiatives at this level like – “Swach”.
  4. To ensure that School Health becomes and continues to be an integral part of the overall education program in all schools.
  5. Ensure health and well-being is a key learning area and healthy practices are key competencies to be instilled as part of our curriculum.
  6. The school has developed a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that involves and communicates with children, young people and their parents/guardians.
  7. We encourage child and parent/guardians involvement and engagement that informs safe school operations and builds the capability of children and parents/guardians to understand their rights and responsibilities.

Cambridge Pathway School

Cambridge Primary starts learners on an exciting educational journey. Typically for 5 to 11-year-olds, it develops young learners who are confident, responsible, reflective, innovative, and engaged and includes an assessment that proves and improves learning. Students in this programme follow Stages 1 to 6 of the Cambridge Primary Curriculum, which continues to build on the foundations that are established in the Early Years Foundation Stage. Ongoing reviews ensure that each student’s progress and development are continuous and meet predetermined standards.

We encourage students to think independently, use their initiative, and participate in a meaningful and active manner in the learning process. At the end of Grade 5 (Stage 6), students will prepare for the University of Cambridge Primary Checkpoint Examinations in English, Mathematics, and Science. The tests are marked in Cambridge to provide an international benchmark of learner performance. Learners receive a statement of achievement and a diagnostic feedback report. Feedback reports show how a learner has performed in relation to the curriculum, their learning group, the whole school, and against all learners who have taken tests in that series around the world.

The core academic curriculum includes instruction in English, Mathematics, Science, Global Perspective (Social Studies & EVM) and Digital Learning. Kannada is taught to all students and caters for native and non-native speakers. In addition, the school offers French and Hindi. The overall educational experience is enhanced and supplemented with an enriched visual and performing arts programme that embraces both western and local culture as well as an excellent school sports provision.

The Finnish Education Model

Freedom to choose, express, explore and learn. These are the wings of the learning flight in PNCCS. Our pedagogy adaption to the world’s best education system is to prepare today’s learners for Gen-Z. As a resource school, it is our endeavour in providing an enriching learning environment for our Cognitions to learn.
The Finnish Adaptation in our school is characterized by the understanding that a student who is happy in the classroom and is comfortable since he/she is free to learn at his own pace, will learn the knowledge that is needed. Finnish teachers have genuine pedagogical freedom, as well as autonomy to teach. Therefore, they are motivated in their day to day activities. Teachers spend approximately 400 + hours of training during a year. This includes a wide range of skills such as Subject Matter Expertise, Classroom Management, Equipping Students with 21st Century Skills, and many more.
The Facilitators have at their disposal a range of ready-to-use materials in their classrooms. The learning labs and Research Points empower the teacher to promote experiential and active learning.
Thus a plant rooted in good soil and environment bears fruits that sustains itself and the community. And so is every Cognition.
Progressing in this pathway, two initiatives that shape our children’s mind is “Speakathon” and “Thoughtcast”. These learning platforms help the learners to reflect on various topics which impact them, the environment, and the community at large. Learners express, debate, and pen down their thoughts. Thus transforming them into confident individuals who can voice their opinions, accept or reflect on critical reviews and collaborate to find solutions.
The pedagogy promotes mastery of learning through thinking routines. It is a synonym for the layers of soil. Each is different in texture and composition but all are important.