back to school = bike to school

Get an "A" before you even set foot in school. Bike or walk there and score major eco points.

It's easy!

OK, so it takes a little effort, but it's definitely easier than trigonometry. Plus, it's a whole lot easier on the environment.

Not convinced? Check out these stats and tips for kids and parents:

BEEP! BEEP!
Commuting students make up about 30% of morning traffic.

COUGH! COUGH!

Idling cars in the school parking lot emit carbon dioxide. (A lot of it.)

CHA-CHING!

Think of all the cash you'll save by walking or biking to school. Walking's free, and a bike's fueled by you, which brings us to ...

WORK IT

More than 80% of kids sit in a car or bus to get to school. Walking or biking is great exercise that builds strong bones, muscles, and joints, and helps control weight.

MARK IT

Your calendar, that is. Walk to School Day is October 7. It's the perfect time to try walking or biking to school.

GET IT TOGETHER

Start a "walking pool" with other parents.

PAIR UP

Find a walking buddy. It'll make the time and your feet move faster.

PLAY IT SAFE

Establish a "Safe Stop" -- a designated neighbor or store along the route to school where your child can stop if they get hurt, need help, or just feel insecure.

PLAY IT SAFE, PT. 2

Find a safe bike route to school. Many communities have designated bike lanes. Check out MapMyRide.com for biking directions to and from school.

PLAY IT SAFE, PT. 3 (Hey, we're big on safety.)

Teach your kids bike safety and make sure they ALWAYS wear a helmet. Come to think of it, so should you.

Are you more of a walker or a biker?