The fond memories of learning to ride a bike can quickly be conjured
up. As you quickly replay the events like a movie you can't help
but smile about your earlier achievements. These 8 tips to teach
your child to ride their bike will leave your child with the same
fond memories to conjure up in later life.
1. When is the right time
Deciding when the right time to allow your child to learn to
ride a bike is a personal choice. When your child has good balance
and good co-ordination your child will be ready to learn to
ride a bike. An example of good balance would be the ability
to hop on one foot or spin without falling. Spring and summer
are the best times to learn to ride a bike because weather is
most likely to be good and not interfere with the child learning
to ride.
2. The right clothing
Make sure your child is dressed appropriately for riding their
bike. That means no loose clothing that can get caught in chains
or on peddles, and no bare knees or elbows if at all possible.
When they are first learning to ride when the chances of a spill
are more likely.
3. Safety
Before you even allow your child to start to learn to ride it
is important that you spend some time making sure they understand
safety issues. The issues you discuss and the way you discuss
them will depend on the child's age. It is important to present
this safety lesson in a way that they will understand. You can
use pictures or books that are on the market. There lessons
should be reinforced and expanded on a regular basis.
4. Bike helmet
A bike helmet is a must!! Not only is it illegal not to wear
a helmet, it is unacceptable for you as a parent to even entertain
the idea. One nasty spill could leave your child with sever
injuries, worse yet it could leave them dead.
The easiest way to get your child to wear a helmet is if you
wear one. After all if it's good for mom and dad then it's good
for the child. Children love to be copycats. If you allow your
child to help choose the helmet they are also more likely to
leave it on and not protest about wearing it.
5. Knee pads and elbow bads
This is entirely optional. For a few dollars you can pick up
a set up knee pads and elbow pads that will keep these joints
protected should your child wipe out. And in the beginning they
will wipe out. Your child may find them bulky and uncomfortable
and protest wearing them. You may have to make some type of
compromise as to when and where they must wear them and when
they are allowed to bike without them.
6. Training Wheels
Training wheels are a great way to get a child going in the
beginning. It allows them to learn to balance themselves with
the safety net of the training wheels stopping them from falling
over when they error. It's rather like the extension of their
tricycle.
The other advantage to training wheels as they can gradually
be raised until they are no longer needed. They provide a great
safety net for your child while they explore their new found
freedom.
7. The location to learn to ride
When your child is first learning to ride choose a location
that is flat without dips dives and potholes. A piece of pavement
is usually a good choice. Make sure there are few obstacles
so that your child can concentrate on getting the hang of riding
without worrying about having to steer around obstacles. A nice
long sidewalk also works well. Once they have the basics under
control you can allow more freedom as to where they are allowed
to ride. If you are going to allow them to ride on the road
be sure they understand the dangers and how to stay safe.
8. Teach a child how to fall
Falling is part of learning to ride a bike. In fact falling
is always a risk of biking no matter how experienced you are.
This can be a hard lesson for a child. Some children will want
to quit after the first fall. A couple of scratches or bumps
and bruises can leave the child leary about riding. Other children
will consider their war wounds as part of their accomplishments
and get right back up and start again.
The best thing you can do is give your child reassurance. Encourage
them to keep on trying. Get them smiling and proud of their
accomplishment to date. You can also give your child tips on
how to fall with the least amount of impact. Teach them not
to brace themselves with their hands and not to lock their joint.
At first you can be nearby to help minimize the fall.
Okay your child's ready to go. Their on the bike, they are just
itching to get going. So let's go! Watch the wobble of those first
few peddle movements and watch the smile on your child's face
as they experience their new found freedom. Congratulations your
child is now on the way to having those same fond memories that
you have!
