March Break may be a chance for kids to forget about school for a week, but it doesn’t need to be a break from learning—especially when what they’ll learn could save their lives.
If you and your family are in the Montreal area this vacation, head to
Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum. Their new Rail Smart Rally is the perfect way to tap into kids’ fascination with trains, while teaching kids aged 8-12 some important rail safety lessons at the same time.
“Kids need to know how to stay safe around railway tracks and the Rail Smart Rally is a great way to help them do that,” explains Sarah Mayes, National Director of Operation Lifesaver. “Ensuring kids understand railway warning signs and signals, and just how dangerous trespassing on railway property and tracks can be, could save their lives.”
Combining learning with a little fun
Visitors get a free exploratory notebook that guides them through the six stages of the rally. As kids travel around the museum, they have to stay alert for railway hazards and safety warnings. “We give small hints in the notebook to let children learn on their own,” says Bruno Cordellier, communications officer at Exporail. “They get to learn about safe behaviours and practices regarding railways, all in an entertaining environment.”
So, this March Break, why not make sure the kids in your life know how to stay safe around train tracks and railway property? Head to Exporail for a little fun and education. It’s located in Saint-Constant, Que. on the South Shore. Admission is $20.40 a day for adults, $12.24 for teens 13 to 17, $10.20 for kids three to 12, and free for kids two and under. Family rates are also available.
And be sure to check out Operation Lifesaver’s website for
resources such as colouring sheets and quizzes to help keep the kids busy this March Break, and rail safe all year round.