Winnie & Wally!

At Watch for Me CT, we believe the best way to keep our communities safe is by teaching safe habits early. Winnie’s role is to show grown-ups how important it is to lead by example, while her joey, Wally reminds us that little eyes are always watching and learning. Together, they help families talk about safety in a fun, memorable way.

PROTECTING KIDS

According to recommendations from both the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Center for Safe Routes to School children under 10 are not ready to cross the street alone and should not do so.

Young children often do not have the motor skills or cognitive abilities to safely navigate being near the road.

According to the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP), with a couple very limited exceptions, children under the age of 10 should never be near the road by themselves. Due to age-appropriate developmental limitations, children under the age of 10 can struggle with scanning for traffic, judging vehicle speed/distance, anticipating driver behavior, and determining if it is safe to cross the road.

Using the front yard as a play area can be dangerous, especially for younger children, because of the proximity to traffic and the risk of driveway backovers. Play away from vehicles!

As children get a little older and their brains develop further, they gain the skills needed to safely navigate the road.

In addition to the developmental milestones, in late elementary and middle school, kids will have practiced safe behavior near the road with parents, responsible older siblings, or other trusted adults. This supervised practice teaches kids what they are supposed to do and models correct behavior for them to copy when they are by themselves.

Model Good Behavior – Children watch their parents and other adults (and older siblings) in their lives. Modelling safe behavior can help teach kids what they are supposed to do.

Supervise! – Consider your child’s age and maturity level before reducing supervision. While the 10-year-old number is a good benchmark, every kid is different and that’s ok!

Consider the Surroundings – For older children, the type of road factors into how much supervision your child needs. A quiet cul-de-sac is generally much safer than a busy state route.

Be Visible – Make sure that your child is wearing bright or reflective clothing, even during the day. Pedestrians are the smallest road users so it is important to do whatever you can to be as visible as possible.

DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCES

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LINKS

American Association of Pediatrics Statement about Child Pedestrian SafetyHealth Children Blog: American Association of Pediatrics Calls for Walkable CommunitiesHealth Children Blog: Bicycle Safety Myths and Facts for ChildrenFederal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Kids CornerSafe Kids Connecticut Pedestrian Safety PageSafe Kids Connecticut Bike Safety PageVirtual E-Learning Pedestrian Safety ActivityHelping Your Child Be a Safe BicyclistTeaching Children to Walk Safely as They Grow and Develop

UPDATES

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Watch for Me CT
1 day ago

We offer a variety of resources for parents to explore and share with their families. 📚 From newsletters and safety guides to partnerships with state and national organizations, there are plenty of tools to help keep everyone informed and safe.

Explore them here: ow.ly/LQZb50YAMoP 🚸

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We offer a variety o
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Watch for Me CT
5 days ago

E-bikes are a great way to get around, but don’t forget to check the battery before you buy.
🚫 Avoid counterfeit batteries, they can overheat, catch fire, or even explode
✅ Look for UL-certified e-bikes or, at the very least, UL-certified batteries, which are tested for safety
A safe ride starts with safe equipment.
🔗 Learn more: ow.ly/o8Mi50YAMk0
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E-bikes are a great
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Watch for Me CT
1 week ago

This week is National Public Health Week! 🌎 It’s a great time to recognize how small, everyday choices like practicing safe walking and biking habits help protect our communities.

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This week is Nationa
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Watch for Me CT
1 week ago

Ride the State: Connecticut is back! Join us June 28 for a 67-mile ride from New Haven to Hartford. Limited to 200 riders — it always sells out!

✅ Rest stops, lunch & support vehicle
🚆 Free return ticket for first 100 via CTRail
🌳 Scenic new trail sections

Register by Friday, April 25 to save $25! Link in comments. ... See MoreSee Less

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Watch for Me CT
1 week ago

😴 Tired behind the wheel? Don't push through! Drowsy driving slows reaction time, affects decision-making and reduces your ability to stay alert – just like alcohol. Being awake for 18–20 hours can be similar to having a BAC of 0.05%. ... See MoreSee Less

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Watch for Me CT
1 week ago

Having car trouble on the highway? Pull over and #StayInYourCar until help arrives. It’s the safest place for you to be.
#CTDOT #HSO #HighwaySafety ... See MoreSee Less

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Watch for Me CT
1 week ago

As kids start spending more time outdoors, it’s a great opportunity for adults to talk with them about pedestrian safety. Remind children to use crosswalks, stay alert, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. A quick conversation today can help build safe habits that last all year. 🚸

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As kids start spendi
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Watch for Me CT
2 weeks ago

Spring outings mean more time near busy streets. Winnie reminds kids to always cross with an adult or a responsible older sibling—especially during times of reduced daylight—and encourages drivers to stay alert and yield to pedestrians at every crosswalk.

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Spring outings mean
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