School has started in Texas. At what age should your child walk there alone?

Children in Texas began another school year this week, and for some, traveling to the first day of classes alone has given them independence.

While it is normal for older children and teenagers to make trips to and from school without being transported by a parent, school bus, or caregiver, some younger kids might have to wait before leaving behind the carpool.

But when is the question?

Here is what Texas law says—or doesn’t say —about when kids can start walking to school alone.

Is there a minimum age when kids can walk to school in Texas?

There is no federal law dictating the age at which children are allowed to travel to and from school alone, though states can enact their own laws if they choose.

Several states, including Texas, have passed laws in recent years to protect parents who allow their children to walk anywhere alone when they believe it is reasonable to do so.

In Texas, there is no minimum age at which children can begin walking to school or any other place without adult supervision.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, however, recommends that children not walk to school alone before the age of 10 because they don’t have the cognitive ability to do so safely until then.

“Young children have developmental limitations that prevent them from being safe pedestrians,” AAP said. “In deciding when a child can cross streets independently, parents must consider the child’s age and maturity, the distance to be traveled, the amount of on-street parking, and the volume and speed of traffic.”

The AAP notes that each child is different, and parents should recognize how far along developmentally their child is to determine whether they should travel alone.

How to prepare your child to walk to school alone

The pediatrician website healthychildren.org recommends that parents and caregivers start by walking the route with the child a few times before allowing them to do so alone.

Child experts also suggest reminding your child to be aware of their surroundings and pay close attention to traffic, especially if they will be walking near residential driveways and yards without a fence.

“Drivers may not see small children when backing up their vehicles in a driveway or lot,” Dr. Sadiqa A.I. Kendi, who co-wrote the AAP’s 2023 policy statement, said.

What else should kids know before walking to school alone?

Rosemary Webb, co-president of Child Lures Prevention, suggests that children should never get in a vehicle with someone they do not know and ignore motorists and pedestrians who attempt to speak with them.

“If feeling uneasy or scared, instruct children to approach a mom or dad with kids of their own and say, ‘I do not feel safe.’” Tell your child to avoid shortcuts and follow all pedestrian and road safety rules,” Webb told the Huffington Post.

Other safety tips to follow include:

• Make sure your child is accompanied by a friend or walks with a group of children.
• Provide the child with a cell phone in case of emergencies or to track their whereabouts.
• Teach your child to call 911 if they are in danger or feel threatened.