Create Your Own Bike Bus!

Despite the name, a bike bus doesn’t involve buses at all! It is a method of commuting to school where multiple kids bike together in a group. Bike buses are a safe and convenient means of transportation. Having 3+ kids bike together increases their visibility to cars, provides an opportunity to spend time with friends, and adds physical activity to a kid's day. All the while, you are reducing the amount of cars on the road and avoiding those pesky carpool lines. 

So, how can you start a bike bus for your child?

Create a Plan

Anytime you are commuting by bicycle we recommend planning a route before you take off. In this case, identify other children in the neighborhood who might want to participate. Then, design a route passing each house to pick the kids up. Once your bike bus is complete, plan your path to school. When possible, take side streets or find bike lanes that protect bikes from traffic. 

Talk to the Parents

A bike bus requires parental involvement. There should always be an adult at the front and an adult bringing up the rear. But it doesn’t have to be you every day! Create a rotation for different parents to get involved. Assign two parents to each day of the week.

Loop Your Kids In

Putting a kid on a bicycle and telling them to pedal might work when you are having fun in front of your house, but a lot more goes into a bicycle commute. Talk to your kids about why this method of transportation matters and why you chose to start a bike bus. Then cover some basic safety tips for them to follow during the commute. 

Practice Your Route

A practice run is always a good idea! Take a Saturday morning to run through the route with all participants so you know how long it takes. Take note of any potential hazards or any changes that need to be made. 

Pedal Away! 

Now it’s time for the best part…start pedaling!