My lovely, sporty boy was looking forward to play sports, any kind of sports, while a small baby. As a mother, I had… and I still have a lot of concerns about his safety. I know I don’t have to be in control of everything he does … but still.. I’m his mom and I wish he would be safe of injuries all his life!

Over the years I learnt that there are things that can be done in order keep him safe and there are other things that are not in my control. So, let’s choose to take only the battles that we can win!

As parents, we have the responsibility and the privilege of teaching our children the habits that will increase the likelihood that they remain safe and healthy. So here are a few things that we have to put in their minds in the area of bicycles, skateboards, roller and inline skates.

1. Make sure that the bicycle is the right size for your child. The balls of your child’s feet should touch the ground when he sits on the seat. When he stands, there should be an inch of clearance between the center bar and his crotch. Don’t be tempted to buy a bike that is too big for him so he can grow into it because he will have trouble controlling it.

2. No one rides a bike (nor Mom or Dad) or uses a skateboard or inline skates without a properly fitting helmet that meets the standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Critical injuries to the skull and brain can occurs during a bicycle accident and a helmet can reduce the severity of damage by as much as 90 percent!!! As your child grows (or in case of deterioration) the helmet needs to be changed to an appropriate one. The same helmet can be used for different other sports together with knee pads and wrist guards.

Coloring Sheet - Safety while Biking

This is a coloring page that may be use for teaching the child to be safe while biking. Please feel free to download it and use it with your children.

3. Hand brakes should be used only when his hands are strong enough to use them effectively.

4. Teach your child the rules of the road, emphasizing that he has the same responsibilities as the operator of any other vehicle. Riding in the street should be a privilege reserved for those over six years old who can demonstrate that they have full control over their bikes and understand how to maneuver it properly. Traffic signs and signals should be as well known and respected by the children!

5. Tricks or stunts should never be done in the streets! Also, provide adult surveillance to keep them safe.

6. Children should not ride bicycles at night without parents supervision and without proper lightning. Reflective equipment is required and should be wear at all times when riding bikes.

Accidents can happen anywhere – on the sidewalk, in the driveway, even on a quiet bike path – that’s why being prepared, supervised and aware of the roads are so important. Enjoy your children’s progress and teach them how to be safe while biking!