Riding a bike to school or around the neighbourhood can be a lot of fun and a great way to keep kids active. To make sure it’s also safe, here are some essential cycling tips and tricks every parent and child should know.
Start with the Basics: Practice Makes Perfect
Before heading into traffic, make sure your child masters the fundamentals:
- Balance and Control: Practice balancing, turning, and braking in safe areas like driveways or parks.
- Hand Signals: Teach them how to indicate left and right turns or stops using clear hand signals.
- Traffic Awareness: Introduce them to quiet streets first and gradually build their confidence in busier areas.
Keep to the Safe Side
Help your child understand the safest way to ride on the road:
- Always ride at least one metre from the kerb or parked vehicles to avoid unexpected car doors.
- Stick to the left-hand side, but in a straight and predictable line – weaving in and out of parked cars can be dangerous.
Take It to the Next Level with a Cycle Skills Course
If your child is serious about biking, consider enrolling them in a cycle skills course. These are often run by:
- Police education officers
- Local councils
- Community cycling groups
These courses cover everything from handling skills to road awareness and rules, giving kids the tools they need to ride confidently and safely.
Gear Check: Stay Safe and Visible
Safety starts with the right gear. Ensure your child has:
- An approved helmet that fits snugly.
- A bike with working brakes, properly inflated tyres, and functioning lights and reflectors.
- Brightly coloured clothing and closed-in shoes to increase visibility and protection.
Know When They’re Ready for Solo Rides
While every child is different, the recommended age to cycle alone is 10 years or older. Until then, children should ride with adult supervision, especially on busy streets.
Brush Up on the Road Rules
Knowledge is power! Sit down with your child to go over cycling rules and safety guidelines. A great resource is the NZTA Cyclist Road Code.
Bonus Tips for Cycling Confidence
- Create Fun Challenges: Set up obstacle courses at home or in the park to make learning balance and control more exciting.
- Buddy Rides: Arrange for your child to bike with friends or siblings for added safety and enjoyment.
- Regular Maintenance: Involve your child in simple bike maintenance, like checking tyre pressure and cleaning the chain. It’s a great way to teach responsibility.
With the right preparation and guidance, cycling can be a safe and enjoyable way for your child to get around. Whether they’re biking to school or just exploring the neighbourhood, these tips will help ensure they ride with confidence and safety.
