Small children are putting themselves at risk by following the example of older peers, new research has found.
According to the study by Birmingham-based Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, children ignore advice from parents and teachers and follow the bad behaviour of other children.
The study, carried out in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive, examined the a whole school in the North of England's approach towards health and safety and risk education. It found that the attitude of the pupils towards education generally caused a huge barrier to risk education.
Teachers studied also admitted that children do not take responsibility for their actions concerning health and safety issues in the classroom. They believe older peers are to blame for influencing the younger pupils and lessons were easily forgotten when older children practised dangerous behaviour.
The majority of teachers complained that pupils demonstrated a lack of awareness towards risks and felt children will often play on railway tracks and play 'chicken' without fear of being injured.
Although teachers strive to tutor children on risk education, they believe the demand from the National Curriculum puts pressure on their teaching time.
