Wednesday 8:34AM 09/03/2011, Clapton Common
Two blond-haired girls, aged 9 & 10 casually crossed the northern part of the pelican crossing near the Clapton Common pond. They pressed the button on the traffic light to replace the "Red man" for a "Green man". Apparently they were in a rush because they didn't wait for the light to change.
The oncoming morning rush hour traffic came to an abrupt halt, miraculously stopping without causing any collision between the truck hauling building materials and the vehicles behind it.
The lorry driver was as shocked as the onlookers on the street, as the two youngsters chatted amicably whilst walking on the road like sitting ducks.
One bystander reprimanded them to be more careful but they shrugged him off as if he were a mere nuisance, disturbing their conversation with his nonsensical, unsolicited advice.
This article is not aimed at finding whom to blame for this near-tragedy, only to highlight a possible gap in the curriculae of our otherwise excellent schools and Chadorim.
Schools are reminded to ensure that their student body is well trained in the subjects that will help them in their future life. Educators should allow some space in their busy schedules to teach their pupils survival skills so they can implement the lessons that they were taught. Part of the effort should be to engrave into the conscience of their charges, how to cross the roads safely and with traffic in mind.
To the parents of these girls - and for the same matter, to all parents - please teach your children the rudimentary of safely walking the streets. You will ensure their safety, the time of the many volunteers in Hazolo and the anguish of passersby, like the undersigned
Published in the Jewish Tribune that week, thanks to the Editor Dan levy
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