Bicycle Safety for Kids

Bicycling is a great way to get kids outside and moving. Plus, it’s more than just a fun activity; biking can get kids to school and after-school activities! So, how do you get your kids pedaling? Before they ever hop on a bike, take some time to review bicycle safety with your kids.

Start with maintenance.

Believe it or not, bicycle maintenance is a form of bicycle safety. Taking proper care of your bike helps it run smoothly, limiting unexpected stops at inopportune times. Start your kids out on the right foot by teaching them some of the basics of bicycle maintenance. The ABC Spin Check is a great place to start!

Be prepared.

Help your kids create a bike kit with emergency tools and supplies they may need. Get a fun handlebar bag, pannier, or backpack to make this a little more exciting! Get input from your kids on what they think is important to bring with them while biking. A bottle of water and some snacks are always a good idea! 

Talk about infrastructure.

Bike lanes, stop signs, traffic lights, oh my! Make sure to talk with your kids about what they will see on the road. How do bicyclists respond to traffic lights? When is it safe to turn left? If you are looking for creative ways to review road signs and etiquette, contact Nikki Dildine, our Schools Program Manager. 

Hop on a bike.

The time has come to hop on a bike! Find a park or low-traffic area to have your kids practice pedaling around. Review hand signals and have them respond to different hypothetical situations (“You are at a four-way stop with two cars, who goes first?” “A pedestrian is at a crosswalk, who has the right of way?” “There is no bike lane, where do you ride?”) they may encounter on the road.

Make it a family affair.

Don’t just send them off in style…join your kids on the road!