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Every fifth elementary school student serves as a daily parent chauffeur

Approximately one in five elementary school students commute each day via their parents' personal cars

Daily, nearly one in every five elementary school students acts as a 'parent taxi' for their family...
Daily, nearly one in every five elementary school students acts as a 'parent taxi' for their family members.

Almost one in every five elementary school students travels daily with a parent-driven vehicle. - Every fifth elementary school student serves as a daily parent chauffeur

In a significant shift towards promoting independence and healthier habits, a survey conducted by the ADAC foundation in Munich, Germany, reveals that only 19% of elementary school students are driven to school daily by car. This contrasts starkly with 58% of parents who refuse to drive their children to school, citing the importance of fostering self-reliance and avoiding dependency on car transport.

The survey, which polled 1,000 parents of children aged 5 to 15, also found that just 12% of parents drive their children to school due to safety concerns. Instead, the majority of those who drive are doing so because the school is on their commute (30%).

Christina Tillmann, president of the ADAC foundation, strongly advocates for children making their own way to school. She argues that children navigating the school route independently strengthens their safety, independence, and mutual respect on the roads. Tillmann further emphasises that children don't learn about road safety in the back seat.

The refusing parents are primarily those whose children can walk, cycle, or use a scooter to get to school. However, 40% of parents stated that they have appointments after school, and another 9% are driven every other day. Bad weather is also a reason for 32% of parents to drive their children to school.

Tillmann, recognising the unrealistic nature of a world without "parent taxis," encourages a balanced approach. She suggests that while it's important to promote independence, parents should also consider the safety and convenience of their children.

The ADAC foundation's survey provides valuable insights into parental attitudes towards school transportation in Munich. As more parents embrace the idea of promoting independence and healthier habits, the future could see a significant decrease in car-dependent school runs.

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