Bicycles and tricycles give children their first form of vehicles and an increased sense of freedom. The tricycle has three wheels and eliminates the need for balance skills required by bicycles, and they are often used by younger children that have not yet learned how to ride a bike. No matter what your child rides, it is wise to teach them proper safety when using their bikes and trikes.
Helmets
Helmets protect your head in the event of a fall or accident, and when you are traveling at high speeds on a bike and susceptible to crashes or being hit by a car, they can save your life. Even young children riding on sidewalks should wear helmets to protect their head from a fall. Young riders can suffer concussions or other head injuries from falling off their bike or tricycle.
Streets and Sidewalks
Young riders should ride on the sidewalk, where motor vehicles can't threaten them. When crossing streets, riders should be cautious, stopping at the end of the sidewalk and looking both ways to ensure that the street is clear of moving vehicles. Both bikes and tricycles should be walked across the street for safety.
Roadway Riding
Sometimes riding in the street can't be avoided when a sidewalk or bike lane is not available. Small children should avoid this at all costs, and tricycles should never be brought out into a road because they are too small and lack the speed and steering of a bicycle. When riding in the road, always go with the flow of traffic and stick to the right-hand side of the road.
Riding Form
Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times. This gives you better control over the bicycle. Sometimes it is necessary to use one of your hands when riding, such as when you are signing a direction in traffic, but even this can reduce your control over the bike. Additionally, be alert at all times and ready to stop at a moment's notice when riding in traffic.
Other Gear
In addition to helmets, many riders put on other gear that will protect them in the event on an accident. Elbow pads and knee pads are common, especially for younger children--many younger riders will fall on their own even if they aren't hit or obstructed in their riding, and pads on the arms and knees provide a buffer. You might also consider wear gloves to improve grip on the handlebars and help protect the hands and wrist in a fall.
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