Pedaling Towards Safety: Essential Bike Tips for Kids

Shining STAR Milaney riding her bike at the local park

With the weather cooling down and fall colors all around, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy a bike ride! Biking offers incredible benefits for children, from building strength and coordination to boosting confidence and independence. At STAR Therapies, we believe that every child should enjoy these benefits safely. Here are our top tips to help make every bike ride safe, fun, and empowering.

1. Gear Up with the Right Helmet

A well-fitting helmet is the first and most essential piece of bike safety gear. Here’s what to check for:

• Fit: Helmets should sit level on the head, about two fingers’ width above the eyebrows, and shouldn’t tilt forward or backward.

• Straps: Make sure the straps form a “V” under the ears and are snug under the chin.

• Padding: Helmets with adjustable pads or straps can offer a better fit, especially for young riders.

• Check Regularly: Kids grow fast, so check helmet fit frequently and replace helmets if they’re damaged or outgrown.

2. Dress for Safety

The right clothing can make a big difference in visibility and comfort. Bright colors, reflective materials, and clothing that allows for full range of motion all help keep kids safe on the road.

• Avoid Loose Clothing: Baggy pants or shoelaces can catch in bike chains, so keep outfits fitted and make sure shoelaces are tied securely.

• Bright Colors and Reflective Gear: Jackets, vests, or even reflective tape on clothing and backpacks make kids more visible, especially during low-light conditions like early mornings or late afternoons.

Shining STAR Rexlynn sporting her fun helmet while safely riding her scooter

3. Teach Road Awareness

Learning to be aware of surroundings is key to bike safety. Kids should understand the basics of sharing the road with others:

• Look Left, Right, and Left Again: Always look both ways and make eye contact with drivers at intersections or crosswalks before crossing.

• Stay on the Right Side of the Path: Children should stay to the right on trails or sidewalks, allowing others to pass safely.

• Signal Turns and Stops: Use arm signals for turning or stopping so everyone nearby knows their intentions.

4. Choose Safe Routes

Whether in the neighborhood, park, or on trails, planning a safe route goes a long way in ensuring a smooth ride:

• Stick to Safe Paths: Avoid busy streets, and opt for designated bike paths or quiet neighborhood routes with less traffic.

• Know Local Laws and Rules: Review bike laws in your area, as some require children to ride on sidewalks, while others encourage them to ride on the road.

• Supervised Rides for Younger Kids: Younger riders benefit from adult supervision to reinforce safe riding habits and provide encouragement.

5. Practice Safe Riding Skills

Biking skills, just like any other skills, need practice! Make sure kids know how to start, stop, steer, and balance confidently:

• Braking Practice: Teach kids to apply the back brake before the front to avoid any accidental flips over the handlebars.

• Starting and Stopping: Help them master smooth starts and stops, especially if they’re transitioning from training wheels to a two-wheeler.

• Looking Ahead: Encourage them to look ahead instead of down at their feet to stay balanced and aware of any obstacles.

Shining STAR Jaxyn getting comfortable with his balance while biking

6. Make It Fun and Engaging

Riding a bike is a fantastic way for kids to build gross motor skills, learn independence, and enjoy the outdoors. For kids who may be new to biking or need adaptive strategies, STAR Therapies can help with individualized coaching and skill-building to increase confidence.

Our therapists and instructors can work with children on coordination, balance, and the motor planning skills needed for biking. Whether through one-on-one support or group sessions, we tailor our approach to each child’s needs, ensuring they feel safe and excited to ride.

Ready to Roll?

With the right preparation, biking can be a safe and empowering experience for every child. For more information about bike skills development or any other programs, reach out to us at STAR Therapies. Let’s make sure your child’s biking journey is safe, successful, and full of joy!

Happy pedaling from all of us at STAR Therapies!