By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

New RDN program aims to turn children into lifelong transit users

Dec 8, 2017 | 4:43 PM

NANAIMO — The next generation of transit users in Nanaimo are getting a head start on learning how to navigate the system.

The Regional District of Nanaimo launched their Kids Ride the Bus program, designed to teach kindergarten through grade 5 students the ins and outs of the local transit system.

The RDN’s director of transportation and emergency services Daniel Pearce said it’s about creating life skills and lifelong transit riders.

“Children have learned about recycling and water conservation but the one piece missing I feel is learning about transit and its importance in a sustainable community.”

Pearce said there has been a noticeable increase in students, especially at young ages, riding the bus.

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“I think we’re seeing really positive feedback from that. Seeing young people empowered about riding the bus and having that freedom as they go into high school and not being afraid of the public transit system is really important.”

He said it’s natural for people to have a sense of fear when trying to use a new form of transportation. “By breaking down those barriers and bringing that information into the classroom it’s going to make it that much easier for students to learn about the bus and be open to getting on it.”

While the program is just getting underway and has yet to go into a school, Pearce said there has been strong interest. He said any interested school can reach out and have a trainer come in with a bus to give a tour and come in for a classroom session.

The curriculum engages the students with concepts such as public transit and the environment, transit history in the community, how to plan a bus trip and transit route planning.

The RDN runs a similar program to help seniors learn the local transit system.

You can get more information here.

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