Riding a bike for the first time can be a challenge, but it’s one that all children should undertake at some point. Once they do, they’ll have the freedom to travel in a way that’s good for their physical health, and good for the environment. What’s more, they’ll get the character-building benefits that come with tackling a tricky project and emerging victorious.
But getting children to ride a bike isn’t as simple as getting them into the saddle. You’ll want to make sure that they have the basics in mind, and that they’re conscious of a few basic safety principles. These become especially important when they cycle on public roads.
The right advice might help them to form the right habits, which can be a boon during the months, and years, ahead.
Start with the Basics
All children should be given a helmet that fits properly. They should also be acquainted with the rules of the road, and how to signal before making a turn.
You don’t have to deliver this information in the form of a lecture. Try to play games, outside of the road, which involve making a signal before turning.
Choose the Right Equipment
If the helmet you choose isn’t a good fit, then your child might not develop the love of cycling that you’d like. They might even abandon the helmet altogether, when they know that you’re not looking. If they’re going to be cycling at night, then reflective clothing can make a big difference to their visibility, too. This is particularly important during winter.
Make sure that you involve them in the buying decisions, and that you look for gear that’s stylish as well as effective. That way, the gear itself is more likely to be worn.
Of course, the most important piece of equipment is the bike itself. Look for something that’s within your budget, and of a size that’s right for your child. If you know that they’re going to be growing, then you might look for something that’s slightly too big.
Practice in Safe Environments
Of course, cycling on a busy road represents a considerable challenge – and the safety risks are high for those who haven’t yet built up the skill set and confidence necessary to deal with these things.
The right approach is typically a gradual one. Practice in quiet spaces, where there’s not much traffic. Then move to the busy ones.
Understand Risks and How to Avoid Them
Being safe on the road is often a matter of spotting hazards in advance, and avoiding them. If your children know about the common hazards, then they might be better able to do this.
Talk to them about other vehicles, blind spots, potholes and black ice.
Legal Advice and Support
Sometimes, a cycling accident can inflict an injury. This might ultimately lead you to a courtroom, where a solicitor specialising in cycle accidents will pursue compensation on behalf of your child.
These claims tend to be made when another road user, or the local council, is to blame for an accident. For example, if there’s a hidden pothole that throws a cyclist from the saddle, the local authority might be sued.
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