Toddler Towing6 Tips To Take Your Toddler For A Ride
The time has come, your baby is no longer a baby. They are a
toddler and ready to break out into that big wide world with nothing
but their tricycle in tow. And that's great but you are anxious
to have them come along on your journey. You'll need to invest
in either a carrier or a trailer to take your toddler with you.
Try these 6 tips taking your toddler for a ride and you'll be
on the road in no time!
1. Tow a Trailer
The tow behind trailers designed for taking your child for a ride
may not look overly safe but they, in fact, are. Even if you take
a tumble, there is a good chance that your toddler's trailer will
stay upright. This makes these trailers a great choice for toddlers.
2. Child Carrier
If you are uncomfortable using a trailer because you feel you do
not have enough control over the situation, then use a child carrier.
The child carrier usually attaches to the rear rack on your bike.
There are several options available such as the ability to recline
the chair so your toddler can nap in comfort. There are also styles
that put the toddler in front of the adult. The only problem with
this style is it may block your visibility.
3. Use a helmet
I'm sure we don't have to remind you about safety. Not only is it
illegal to bike without a helmet, it's not smart! This goes for
your toddler too. For some reason, parents don't think of their
toddlers as actually bike riding so they tend not to put a helmet
on them. Any child over the age of 1 or who can hold up their own
head should be wearing a helmet to keep them safe. It also programs
them at a very young age that a helmet and biking go hand in hand.
4. Securely fastened
Whether you are using a trailer or a carrier your child needs
to be securely fastened. You need to make sure that the harness
system meets or exceeds all standards. A harness is of no use
if on impact it pulls itself free from the carrier. You also need
to be sure your toddler will not be able to open the clasp when
you aren't looking. This could result in a tragic accident.
5. Let them adjust
Before taking off on that long bike ride with your toddler in
tow, get them use to the idea. First start by placing them in
the trailer or carrier before it is even attached to the bike.
Let them sit in it, play in it, in general just get use to the
idea. Next attach it to the bike and take them for short jaunts
no longer than 5 minutes. Each day you can increase the length
of time. You can also judge what the maximum length of time your
toddler is willing to sit still in the seat before starting to
fuss. This will allow you to better plan your bike rides.
6. Keep your toddler happy
If your planning to do trips that extend past 30 minutes you are
going to have to figure out a way to keep your child amused. Loose
toys aren't going to be a good idea because they are most likely
going to be found scattered along the road as your child drops
them. You might figure out a way of attaching their favorite toy
to the trailer or carrier so that it can't get dropped. Be sure
the cord attaching it is short enough so as not to fall over and
get caught in the wheels or become a danger. Also never attach
it directly to the child who could accidentally choke themselves
without you even being aware there is a problem.
It won't be long before your toddler becomes a seasoned rider
that you can take with you on all your biking expeditions. In
fact after the first trip or two you'll most likely find your
toddler nodding off just as they wood in a car. Following these
6 tips will keep your toddler happy and safe!
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