Our roads these days are having to cope with more and more traffic than ever before. A child is more at risk of being involved in a road accident at the age when they start school, and up until the age of nine, most children can't judge how fast vehicles are going or how far away they are.

For this reason it is vital that you teach your child road safety as soon as possible.

Ages 4 and under - Holding their hand

• It is imortant that you start to teach your child the importance of road safety as soon as possible. Start by explaining what traffic is and how you should behave with it.
• Make sure your child walks on the side of the pavement away from the traffic. Hold their hand, keep them on a rein, in a buggy or a pushchair.
• Set a good example for your child as they will copy your example.

5 - 6 Year Olds - Leading the Way

• Teach your child the Green Cross Code - STOP! LOOK! LISTEN!
• Start practicing on quiet roads. Firstly by crossing together, then letting your child lead you across and finally by letting them cross while you wait behind, watching carefully.

7 - 9 Year Olds - The Green Cross Code

• Explain the Green Cross Code fully to your child. When you are sure they know and understand it let them cross quiet roads where you have been practising, watching and testing before you let them do it alone. Gradually cross busier roads but do this many times before letting them cross alone.
• As well as how to cross the road teach your child other aspects of good road side behaviour.
• Make sure your child can be seen by road users by them wearing brightly coloured clothing or fluorescent clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night.

10 - 15 Year Olds - Independence.

• Make sure your child takes road safety seriously. Keep talking to them about the dangers.
• Make sure they are aware of what is happening around them and are not distracted by personal stereos, mobile phones or friends.

Cycling on the roads

• Check to see which cycle training courses are available at your child's school and encourage them to take one if possible.
• Make sure your child wears a safety helmet, wear one yourself to set an example.
• Make sure that your child's bike is in good working order. Make sure it is the right size, that the front and rear lights are working.
• If there are special cycle lanes and paths available make sure your child knows where they are.
• As well as traffic make your child aware of pedestrians particularly young children and the elderly.