Distraction is one of the leading causes of road accidents – whether it is distracted pedestrians, motorists or cyclists. It is with this in mind that the Ottawa Safety Council designed an at-home kids activity that will help children understand how distraction can affect concentration and focus. This activity will help kids pay close attention to what is going on around them while walking or biking about their neighbourhoods, which is important for their safety.
The Dangers of Distraction – Kids Activity
This activity is suitable for kids in grades three to six. Start by making sure your children understand the following definitions:
Focus: Pay particular attention to.
Concentration: The action or power of focusing one’s attention or mental effort.
Distraction: A thing that prevents someone from giving full attention to something else.
Then gather the materials needed.
Materials you will need:
- 2 puzzles (that are relatively easy to complete – recommend using two 12 piece puzzles that your child is not familiar with completing already)
- A timer
- A TV/tablet (something you can play a video they like on)
- A bouncy ball
- Background music (i.e., the radio or a favourite soundtrack of the A favourite book
- A snack they like
Then get started with the Dangers of Distraction Activity!
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DANGERS OF DISTRACTION ACTIVITY WORKSHEET
Distraction is very dangerous when it comes to road safety. This fun activity will test your children’s level of concentration both when they are and are not distracted, using things you have around the house already. The activity will help children understand the dangers of distraction when they are out walking/cycling and how they can stay safe and distraction-free.
Have fun and be safe!
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Road safety is a shared responsibility, regardless of how you use the road. Our friends, family, children, and colleagues are impacted several times daily by road safety. When tragedy strikes, too often we feel powerless in terms of making an impact to prevent further issues. If you would like to get more involved in road safety, we invite you to take the #RoadSMARTS pledge. By taking the Road SMARTS Pledge, you Support Making All Road Travel Safe, which can help improve road safety for everyone. When road behaviours change, accidents can be reduced. For more information and to take the pledge for free, visit https://www.road-smarts.ca/