Starting young is our best defence against four-wheeled fiends, two-legged titans and motorised monsters in Singapore.
EDUCATION on road safety should begin from an early age. Learning that we share the road with other users is as important as learning to share toys. Saying “thank you” applies everywhere, including on the roads.
This was the premise behind the “Audi Future Drivers’” programme, a collaboration between Audi Singapore and Pat’s Schoolhouse to educate preschool children on the importance of road safety.
The five- and six-year-olds were divided into three groups, rotating between three stations. They got to be drivers behind the wheels of a fleet of R8 Spyder kiddie rides.
As they drove around a minitrack complete with lane markings, arrows, pedestrian crossings and cones, they learnt about keeping a safe distance from the car in front and giving way to pedestrians.
The pedestrian group was taught how to cross the road safely by checking for traffic on both sides, as well as raising their hands. A third station introduced road signs and traffic signals to the children.
The kids were each given two Audi Dollars at the beginning of the session, which they could use to pay their fines if they were caught flouting traffic regulations.
But in the spirit of learning, the instructors were very lenient and usually just let them off with a warning. I wished that the Traffic Police in the real world was as lenient and that fines could be paid using Audi Dollars.
Looking at the little ones engaged in hands-on, interactive role-plays and going around in their R8s in a fun and safe learning environment, I was reminded of my visit to Road Safety Park as a primary school student.
I had an awesome time there, partly because I got to be a driver instead of a pedestrian. And even though there weren’t any fancy “coupes” to “drive”, I enjoyed the road safety lessons imparted through a simulated adult world.
I would like to think that some of these lessons have stayed with me, even until today.
As children are the most vulnerable among road users, it is important that they learn to be vigilant and independent on the road/roadside.
Hopefully, these future drivers maintain the good habits when they become old enough to get behind the wheel of a real car – an Audi or otherwise.
Over 900 preschoolers attended the “Audi Future Drivers” programme conducted between May and June this year. I hope this means at least 900 more road users out there who are responsible and considerate.
There’ll be even more if these kids share what they have learnt with their parents and friends.
Lynn feels that adult road users can do with some unlearning of bad habits.
