Bicycle Safety for Pre-Ks

Bicycle Safety for Pre-Ks

kids on the bikes image by Peric Sinisa from Fotolia.com

Learning to ride a bike is a rite of passage for many kids that can be fraught with danger. But with a little attention to safety and common sense, little ones can learn valuable skills and have lots of fun without injury.

Always Be Watching

Constant supervision of pre-K children while they are bicycling is the first and foremost tool to keep them safe while cycling.

Helmets

Invest in a well-fitting helmet. It should fit over the top of the head and be strapped securely under the chin with straps. It should fit level on the head and not tilt in any direction. The front of the helmet should be level and low over the brow line, not pushed back.

Knee and Elbow Pads

Some helmets come with knee pads and elbow pads. Although these are not strictly necessary, they may come in handy for scooter riding and for little kids learning how to ride without training wheels.

Training Wheels

For pedal bikes, it is best to start with training wheels. As you see your child balancing on his/her own while riding, you can take them off. Another option is the push bicycle that doesn't have pedals. Many parents have discovered that these little bikes help teach children how to balance a two-wheeler very quickly.

Places to Ride

Keep little riders off busy streets. It is best for them to learn and ride in a place away from traffic. Parks, school yards and your own fenced property are excellent riding locations for little ones.

Article Written By Tanya Wyr

Tanya Wyr has 12 years experience as a professional writer and editor both in print and online. She has written for major retailers such as Wal-Mart, Macy’s and Mervyns. Wyr has also edited college-level textbooks. Wyr earned a B.A. in political science from the University of Minnesota in 1991.

Write for Trails.com
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