Safe on the bike

VSafety on the bike is of the utmost importance, especially when cycling with children. Being able to cycle is different from participating in traffic. In this blog we share valuable tips and insights on how to cycle safely with children. From choosing the right clothing to learning essential cycling skills. Below are five tips for cycling safely with children. 

 

Check the bicycles regularly

Make sure the bicycle is in good condition. Check tires, brakes, lights and other essential parts regularly. This keeps the bicycles safe enough to cycle on. Have a bicycle checked regularly by the bicycle mechanic for a complete maintenance check. 

 

Ensure good visibility

Use reflectors and lighting, especially in bad weather and in the dark. Make sure that your and your children's clothing is also clearly visible. This can be done by wearing safety vests or buying a jacket with extra reflectors! This way you know that you and the children are clearly visible. 

 

Learn traffic rules

Start learning the traffic rules as early as possible. Make sure children understand and follow basic traffic rules. For example, teach them hand signals and how to cross safely. You can practice this in quiet streets or through various traffic exercises, such as Safe in Traffic. They also pay attention to it at school. 

 

Practice cycling skills

This tip fits in well with the tip mentioned above. Practice cycling regularly with your children in quiet places before participating in traffic. Practice using hand brakes, steering and stopping safely. Always be considerate of other road users, including motorists and pedestrians. Anticipate possible dangers and stay alert. A child who can cycle cannot simply participate in traffic. Estimate carefully whether it is big enough to actually enforce the rules. 

 

Please note clothing:

Make sure the children wear appropriate clothing; such as a helmet and reflective clothing. Avoid loose clothing that can get stuck in the bicycle. Also pay attention to loose laces. These then rotate around the pedals, causing you to get stuck and not be able to continue cycling. If you make children aware of this, they will never get on their bike with loose laces.

 

Safety comes first, so take the time to develop good habits and make sure both you and your kids are well prepared before you get on your bike. You are always an example for the children, so always stop at a red traffic light and only cross at a train crossing when the lights are off. 

Inspiration

https://www.bol.com/nl/nl/p/ravensburger-verkeersspel-leerspel/9200000073620987/?Referrer=ADVNLYAH002027-BBH7VVZHFJ7VW-77928095013707&msclkid=57551167be421606f2d674162c005351 

https://www.mammiemammie.nl/veilig-de-fiets-op-tips-voor-ouders/