So — your child wants to ride a bicycle!
While very young children enjoy riding behind their parent's bike in a trailer or on a trail-along bike, they soon reach the age when they want to ride their own bike on outings.
It is important to take the time then to make sure they have a well-fitting bicycle and helmet, and that they have learned the necessary bike-handling skills to be safe.
A well-fitted bike provides your child with the best ability to ride with control.
It is important to make sure your child's hands are big enough before expecting them to use hand brakes effectively. The helmet needs to be the correct size, placed on the child's head so it is sitting in a level position, and secured firmly with the chin strap.
Children younger than nine or 10 do not generally have the physical development and the cognitive skills to cycle independently in traffic. They do not perceive danger, cannot assess car movements and see themselves as indestructible. They can be impulsive and easily distracted and need the time to mature before riding in traffic.
Your child needs to master some basic bicycle handling skills before riding on the road and these can be taught in areas such as an empty parking lot.
The following skills will make your child safer: good balance, starting and stopping, checking for traffic (like walking across the road), riding in a straight line, checking over the shoulder without swerving or losing balance and making hand signals without losing balance or wobbling.
Mastering these skills first will make your practice rides together in the neighbourhood a less stressful experience for both of you!
When you are driving or walking with your child take the time to explain the rules of the road, explain that a cyclist is a vehicle driver with the same rights and responsibilities as a car driver.
Point out cyclists who are riding correctly or incorrectly and explain what they are doing. Gradually give your child more information about being a responsible and safe road user. Ride with them to demonstrate skills and to watch their skills develop.
It's important for all of us to remember we are role models for the children in our lives. By helping them develop their skills, and setting good examples, we are helping them to develop positive life-long cycling habits.
So, as an adult, check the condition of your own bike, wear your helmet correctly, ride safely and enjoy introducing children to the joys and freedoms of cycling.
The Comox Valley Cycling Coalition is planning to offer Safe Cycling Rodeos for children locally. If you would like more information please contact us through http://cyclecv.squarespace.com.
Margaret Harris is the president of the Comox Valley Cycling Coalition.