INDUSTRY INSIGHT
Your Child
During the summer months, it is important to verify bike
readiness by running through this checklist to ensure your
children’s safety.
• Make sure each child’s helmet still fits properly. If the helmet is too
small or has previously been involved in a crash or has been
damaged, replace it.
• Clean off all the dust on the bike and check for loose parts – this
includes the seat and handlebars.
• Check and inflate the tires. Also, check for tire wear and dry rot.
• Adjust the seat. Your children have grown since the last time they
rode their bikes. When seated on the bike, your child should be
able to stand on the balls of both feet.
• Check the handlebars. They should be easy to grasp without
leaning forward.
• Make sure the brakes are working properly and there is no wear.
• Buy the appropriate-sized bike. Never buy a bike that your child
will “grow into.”
Sponsored Content
This Industry Insight was written by
Dina Speranza & Carol Maier. They are
the owners of The Goddard School®,
located at 800 Commerce Avenue in Moon
Township. Goddard offers both full- and
part-time Infant/Preschool/Kindergarten
programs. For more information, visit
www.goddardschool.com or call
412.262.1821.
Bike Helmet Safety
Many children do not like wearing helmets because they fear they
are “uncool.” Because of this, it is important to have your children start
wearing a helmet with their first tricycles or play vehicles to get them
in the habit. Let your children know you expect them to wear a helmet
every time they ride. Be a role model and wear a helmet when you ride
your bike; your children are more likely to wear a helmet if they see
you demonstrating good safety.
Allowing your children to choose their own helmet will increase the
probability that they will want to wear it. Make sure when purchasing
a new helmet that it is the correct size. Never buy a helmet that your
child will “grow into.”
• The helmet should sit level on your child’s head. It should be low on
the forehead, about one or two finger widths above their eyebrows.
• Adjust the straps so they meet in a “V” right under each ear.
• Adjust the chinstrap snugly under the chin so that no more than
one or two fingers fit under the strap. Keep the helmet tight
enough so the helmet pulls down when your child opens his or
her mouth.
• Always make sure helmet straps are buckled when your child is
riding.
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