Being Visible: Safe routes Philly at Our Mother of Consolation School

Date: November 11, 2010
Neighborhood: Chestnut Hill
Number of Students: 33

In our lesson, we teach our students to be visible when they’re on their bikes. “So, does that mean dark colors,” I say as I point to my navy blue polo, “or bright colors?” I point to students wearing brighter shirts in the classroom.

“Bright colors!” says the class unanimously.

“That’s right. Bright colors help you stand out especially at night and when it rains. There are two more parts on a bike that also help you be more visible. Anybody know?”

Hands are thrown in the air. One girl says “Reflectors!”

“Correct! Can you explain how they work?” I’ve come across many students think they have light bulbs inside of them so I was delighted when this young student explained them correctly. I also add that reflectors can be found in the wheels, the pedals, the front and back of the bike, and sometimes on your sneakers and jackets. Lastly, I add that the more reflectors you have, the more visible you are.

“There is one more part on the bike that helps you be visible, can anyone give me an idea?”

I chose one young 6^th grade boy who said, “Lights!”

“Good!” I take the light off my bike, show how it works and explain that they are really great tools to increase your visibility. Few children have them. I also inform the class that they are available at any Walmart, K-mart, Target, bike shop, or toy store.

The class went very, very well. The students were very engaged, very enthusiastic, and very respectful. Many students were eager to share their stories.

Special thanks goes to Ms. Rowbottom and Mr. Iraci for welcoming Safe Routes Philly in their classrooms, and a very special thanks goes to Principal Hagy in making it happen! 33 more students are now safer in the streets of Philadelphia.

Ride Safe,

~Cy

Would you like Safe Routes Philly at your school? Lessons are available for FREE to 5th grade classrooms in every Private, Parochial, and Charter School in Philadelphia! If you or someone you know would like us to visit a school, please contact Cy@bicyclecoalition.org. For public elementary schools, we've got a special program that will be coming to your school! Check out our website for more information.

Do you like working with kids? Interested in volunteering? Contact Cy@bicyclecoalition.org for more information!