Yeah, can't write it down directly that he can't high five.

The complaint of "distracted children" didn't come from the police, it came from drivers who had to wait those "10 seconds" - but not bcs of the wait, def bcs of how it affects the children (who forget why the crossing guard is there & have convos about philosophy & art??).

And even at that it seems more parents agree with high-fiving than are opposed - so you know it was just one bitchy municipal official who lives nearby & just hates everything & everyone.

Engaging with children (who for some reason still wouldn't get the importance of careful crossing) might be more of a benefit imho - the guard can then point out to kids who didn't pay enough attention what they (could have) missed. You know, so they learn that its a constant thing & that the mere knowledge of it (what to answer when someone asks them) isn't enough.
Otherwise the "guard" could just be just an umbrella holder with a sign.

(I'm sure the guard def didn't go like: "Hey, kid, look at me, no, don't look left or right, just concentrate on me & start walking forward! And think of an elaborate secret high five manoeuvre that lasts for 10 seconds & that I'll def remember!")

But drivers often do get inpatient at the delay of 10 seconds & it fucks their whole day up.
It's not like this kids hold up traffic for 30 minutes every day.

It’s a nickname for crossing guards in the UK. I didn’t know what it meant until I watched a James Acaster comedy special (or a series of specials) wherein he worked as a lollipop man. Or rather until I was partway through, and I just thought it was extra surreal. I highly recommend it.

Because his stop sign is shaped like a lollipop.