First Taste of Freedom

Bike to school day typically falls in early May each year so I had planned to write about that and share tips and tricks on how to make it a successful event for you and your family. Things like how to find safe routes to and from school and the importance of practicing with your kids prior to the event day. Well, thanks to the Corona Virus, “school” is taking place at kitchen tables around the country, eliminating the need to commute at all, let alone via bike. However, now is actually a fantastic time to teach your kids to ride, brush up on the rules of the road and set the foundation for safe cycling!

Let’s start with the obvious. With much of the country currently on some sort of “stay at home” orders, there are very few cars on the road. And, I’m finding the cars I do encounter are driving more patiently and less aggressively, ostensibly because no one is in a hurry these days. So now is the PERFECT time to get your little ones out and start building confidence by teaching them the basics. Seriously, LOOK at these empty/quiet intersections!!

Since one of the biggest hurdles can be moving your little one from the sidewalk to the road (where bicycles belong), the reduced traffic, slower pace and over-all quiet neighborhoods will work in your favor. Initially, when I was teaching my kids to ride, I found it easiest to have them follow behind me, single-file and basically do whatever I was doing: signal when I signaled, stop when I stopped, etc. Like “follow the leader” but on bikes. Even better if a second adult can bring up the rear and follow behind the little ones ensuring their compliance and safety.

Now that mine are older, I like them to lead the way so I can follow behind and see if they are actually obeying the rules of the road: staying on the right side of the road for starters (I have one who likes to take his half in the middle), signaling when turning and obeying traffic signs. 

Seeing them in action gives me greater confidence that they are being safe when I’m not cycling with them. That said they need constant reminding on the basics which include:

• ALWAYS wear a helmet - this is non-negotiable for me: if you get on a bike, you wear a helmet. Period.
• Bike on the right side of the road, with traffic (never against it).
• Do NOT bike on the sidewalk - sidewalks are for pedestrians. 
• STOP at stop signs and obey traffic rules.
• Do NOT listen to music while biking - stay aware and listen for cars.
• SIGNAL when turning - cars, pedestrians and cyclists need to know what you are doing.
• Have fun!!

The freedom that cycling provides kids is priceless. The ability to explore, play and transport yourself by virtue of your own two legs and lungs builds confidence as well as fitness. Teaching your kids to ride a bike is their first taste of freedom and helps foster independence. I also hope that, by starting them young and teaching them how to share the road safely, they will be more aware and more careful drivers when that day comes.

Stay safe and happy cycling!

Erin