Promoting cycling during the Covid-19 pandemic
About this good practice
The period of the Covid-19 pandemic has greatly affected the physical activity of all residents. The shutdown of schools and distance learning has meant that children have had less and less exercise and activity, and returning to a normal life among peers comes with the risk of increased transmission of the virus. Many traditional events were thus cancelled to the detriment of children, especially at special times such as the Christmas. In order to use Covid-19 pandemic to develop sustainable mobility the Municipal Cultural Centre in Milanowek organised an action called "Santas on bikes", which a as result gave the students and kindergartners an opportunity to participate in the events, but at the same time not to put their health in danger. The aim of the event was to promote cycling.
The action consisted in an organised visit to selected places near schools by members of the Bicycle Tourism Section, who cycled between them wearing Santa Claus costumes. They then distributed sweets to the children and encouraged them to be active outdoors. More than 50 volunteers took part in these rides.
It is noteworthy that such a Santa Claus Day action was organized for the first time in Milanówek.
During the pandemic, Municipal Cultural Centre came up with a new initiative and organized a Santa Claus campaign to promote and popularize cycling therefore the Santa Claus campaign was very popular and reinforced the positive impression children have about cycling and physical activity.
Resources needed
About 50 involved volunteers from the Municipal Cultural Centre.
Evidence of success
The most important effect achieved by the action for children was their involvement in outdoor activities and the promotion of cycling among them. Moreover, it can be expected that children's activity will encourage their parents to ride a bike as well (which was directly achieved by the action)l. This is a cascade effect thanks to which more and more inhabitants of Milanowek start using this means of transport in their everyday commuting.
Potential for learning or transfer
The promotional action offers great opportunities for repetition depending on the circumstances. Building positive associations on the basis of mobility and occasional events guarantees positive reinforcement among recipients, which is crucial in forming attitudes and behaviour, especially among children. An additional element strengthening the promotional effect is breaking the tendency to remain passive during lockdowns, when the possibility to cooperate with peers is strongly limited. The theme of the action can therefore be adapted depending on circumstances, becoming a permanent feature in calendars celebrating various types of feasts.
Good practice owner
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