How to Teach a Child Bike Safety

Once you have taught your children how to ride their bikes, the next step is to teach them the basic rules of bike safety. By taking the time to show your child the rules of the road and helping him to become a proficient bike rider, you can dramatically reduce or eliminate accidents.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bike
• Helmet
• Safety cones

1. Teach your child bike safety by going over all of the basic rules for riding on the street. These rules should include always riding a bike with the flow of traffic, obeying all traffic signs and avoiding areas where automobile traffic is heavy. In addition, you will want to stress to your child that a bike is a mode of transportation, not a toy, and that "playing" on the bike should be avoided.
2. Stress the safety equipment that needs to be used while riding on the bike. The most important piece of safety equipment your child needs to use is the helmet, and you should thoroughly discuss how this piece of equipment can prevent injury and even save your child's life. You should also discuss the use of reflectors and other safety features of the bike and how these items help to increase bike safety.
3. Adjust the bike to your child's body to teach bike safety, focusing on the handlebars, seat post and the overall size of the bike. Your child should be able to straddle the top of the bike frame, and your child's feet should reach the ground with at least 2 inches of space between the crotch and the bike. Handlebars and seats should be adjusted, so that your child's body is in a natural and comfortable position.
4. Allow your child to practice riding a bike in a safe and open environment, with no cars or obstacles in the way. An empty parking lot or quiet cul-de-sac may be an ideal place for your child to become proficient at riding a bike. You may even place safety cones at specific points on the ground, so that your child can learn to turn and weave safely without falling.
5. Tell your child to always be aware of the immediate surroundings when riding a bike. Always check for cars before making a turn or crossing an intersection.

Tips & Warnings

• Allowing your child to ride a bicycle when it is dark is never a good idea. If your child must ride a bike after dark, ensure that bright or reflective clothing is worn.