For children, learning to ride a bike is a rite of passage. The freedom that comes with being able to get out and about during the summer months can be an integral part of a child’s development – not to mention keeping them active. From the moment you let go of their bike for the first time to the day you take off their training wheels, learning to ride a bike is not without its dangers – and for parents, it’s all about preventing them.
With schools now out for summer, it’s time to take a look at how we can keep our little ones safe while they’re out and about on their bikes. In today’s article, PreciousLittleOne offers parents and guardians advice on how to keep your young ones on two wheels and away from danger this summer.
1. Reflection means protection
Whether your little ones are cycling around your cul-de-sac or pedalling further afield, remember that the dark nights will soon start to draw in, making them less noticeable to both cars and pedestrians. You can make sure your child is visible with reflective and fluorescent clothing. Luminous yellow jackets will work wonders in the daylight, but as dusk falls, high-viz reflective tape and bright lights are the only things that will really make your child stand out to drivers.
2. Protect their heads
They might not be the most fashionable item of clothing, but it’s crucial that your child understands the importance of wearing a helmet – and getting them into a routine while they’re young means they’re more likely to consider cycling safety as they get older. Whether they simply lose their balance or find themselves in a more dangerous situation, a helmet could make all the difference to their injuries. And with the wide range of helmets available even the most fashion-conscious kids can keep protected.
3. Encourage noise
Warning absent-minded pedestrians about your presence is one of the most important aspects of safe-cycling. Don’t be afraid to make a noise by ringing your bell, and encourage your children to follow suit. Whether your family will be pedalling past pedestrians in low-light or you’re concerned about cars emerging from hidden dips, interacting with motorists and pedestrians will be vital when your kids take to the roads.
4. Teach them the traffic rules
With most schools offering cycling-proficiency courses, your kids might already be on their way to mastering the roads by bike. Even so, before setting out on a journey, make sure you cover the most important rules of the road. Do they know how to handle crossroads? And when should they stop at traffic lights? Formulate a plan for all situations so your children know what to do if they lose sight of you or find themselves in danger. This way, you can be sure that you’re all on the same path when it comes to staying safe.
5. Don’t worry about pace
While zipping around your garden can be fun, when it comes to cycling out and about near busy roads, consider safety before speed. It’s better to be late than never, and your kids should feel comfortable with the pace they’re riding at. Ensure that your group stays together by matching the speed of the slowest cyclist – and travel at a pace that will allow your child to react to any sudden upcoming hazards.
Now the sun has finally made an appearance, you and your children can make the most of the lighter nights by spending time outdoors. So pull on your helmets, have fun with all the family, and make sure you put safety first this season.
I think the messages that PreciousLittleOne are emphasising here are so important. Toby will be moving from a balance bike to a proper bike at the end of next month and while teaching him to ride a bike will be amazing, teaching him safety is much more important to me. It’s no good letting him ride a bike if he’s going to ride it in the middle of the road with no helmet on, I want him to respect the roads that he’s on, have good etiquette and keep himself out of danger. How are you keeping your kids cycle safe this summer?
*This content is a guest post from PreciousLittleOne