BIKEOLOGY COURSE Recreation Anddance Health, Physicaleducation, American Alliancefor 3 • Contents

RIDE ON! G LO O E K I B

PARENT SECTION

WHAT EVERY PARENT

SHOULD KNOW

Funding for this project was provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration DISCLAIMER This resource has been published in the interest of information exchange. The opinions, findings and conclusions expressed in this resource are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of the U.S. Department of Transportation or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which provided funding for its publication. The U.S. government assumes no liability for its content or use. If trade or manufacturers’ names or products are mentioned within this resource, it is because they are considered essential to purpose of the resource and should not be construed as an endorsement. The U.S. government does not endorse products or manufacturers. 33 31 29 27 25 23 21 17 13 9 7 5 CONTENTS Safety AdministrationSafety (NHTSA) for the development of these parent tip sheets. gratefullyAAHPERD acknowledges funding andtechnical from support the National Highway Traffic Dance, 1900 Association Drive, Reston VA 20191, www.aahperd.org Published March 2014 by Alliance American for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and MAINTAINING ABICYCLE:ABC QUICK CHECK BICYCLING ONMULTI>USE TRAILS DEFENSIVE WALKING &BICYCLING DISTRACTED DRIVING, WALKING &BICYCLING MOTORISTS &BICYCLISTS: SHARE THE ROAD TOLEARNING BRAKE ABICYCLEBE SAFETY “ROLL” MODEL BICYCLES &BASIC TRAFFIC SAFETY CHOOSING THE RIGHT BICYCLE PREVENTING BICYCLE CRASHES INJURIES &BRAIN BICYCLE HELMETS THE BIKEOLOGY COURSE Recreation andDance Health, PhysicalEducation, American Alliancefor 3 • coNTENTS

Be a “Roll” Model for safe behavior — ride and drive safely around all traffic. Reinforce traffic-safety behaviors and keep thelinesofcommunication open. Be knowledgeable yourself —read about what your childislearning. a safer bicyclist.Hereiswhat you candotohelp: Your childistakingabicyclingcourseandlearningtoapplyknowledgeskillsbe Avoid honkingatabicyclist;doesnotshowcourtesy anditcanbedangerous. • Becourteous,respectfuland“Share theRoad” withother roadusers. Treat othersas you • Wear your bicycle helmet every time you get on your bicycle. • A helmet should fit level on the It’s not enough to tell your• child what to do, especially when your is behavior Discusswith your childwhat you see;talkaboutsafeand unsafemotoristbehaviors • Discusswith your childwhat you see;talkaboutsafeand unsafebicyclistbehaviors • Makesurewhat you think you knowiscorrect. • Reviewtake-homematerialsso you are“intheknow” onhelmetfit,bicyclesafety • Follow the rules of • the road when riding a bicycle or driving a car; the traffic rules are the same. Honking canfrightenabicyclist andcausehim/her tocrash. would liketobetreated. on bicycle helmet fit, see: head and low on the forehead, sit securely on the head and be buckled. For more information being a “Roll” Model, see: www.nhtsa.gov/Driving+Safety/Bicycles/Be+a+Roll+Model.different. Your child learns and follows your actions. For more information on to besafer. that couldaffectthesafetyofbicyclists.Discusswhyandwhatdriversshoulddodifferently and whatbicyclistsshoulddodifferentlytobesafer. that couldaffecttheir safetyandincreasetheir chancesofgettinghurt. Discusswhy checks, rulesoftheroadandother importanttopicsfor safebicycling. www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8019_Fitting-A-Helmet.pdf wear_a_helmet.pdf or Fit a Helmet: Wear a Helmet: THE BIKEOLOGY www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8010- COURSE 5 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > THE bikEology couRSE 6 • SEcTioN oNE > cuRRiculuM oVERViEw through your actionsandexperience.Let your childsee positive, non-riskybehaviors. Lead by example. Gooutfor aridewith your childandreinforcesaferidingbehaviors community activities.Check your localbikeshopsfor classes,materialsor freeadvice. metropolitan areahasabicycleclubor coalition. These groupsoffer classesandother Take advantage offree materials andlocalbicycle experts. Justabouteverystateand How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? MAkE SuRE THE FiTS HElMET MAkE buy THE RigHT HElMET should wear aproperlyfittedbicyclehelmeteveryride. in bicyclecrashesfor allbicyclists— young, oldor experienced—parentsandchildren risk ofheadinjuriesintheeventacrash.Sinceinjuryisleadingcausedeath A properlyfittedbicyclehelmetisthesinglemosteffectivepieceofequipmenttoreduce Your childwastaughttofollowthe2-2-2 Bicycle Helmet Rule, tomakesurehis/her • Allow your childrentopickouttheir ownhelmetsanddecorate however theywant.If • Lessexpensivehelmetsdoprovideeffectiveprotection. The keytomaximum helmet • Helmetscanbepurchasedatretailstoresandbicycleshops.Pricedifferencesarea • Buyahelmetdesignedfor bicycling;either abicycle helmetor amulti-usehelmetthat • A helmetmustbeworneachride,fitcorrectlyand be worncorrectlytoprotectthe • see the edge of the helmet. look up with your eyes, you will above your eyebrow. If you your head, The helmet should sit level on bicycle helmetfitsproperly: they likethehelmet,willbemorelikelytowear it. see theBicycleHelmetSafetyInstituteat:www.helmets.org. protection isproper fit.For moreinformationonbicyclehelmettypes,recallsor laws, Commission (CPSC). beyond theminimumsafetystandardssetbyConsumer ProductSafety result ofgreater fittingoptions,more vents, colors,andadditionalcertifications says itcanbeusedfor bicycling. brain frominjuryintheeventofacrash. 2 finger widths BICYCLE HELMETS your earlobe. “v” with2 and formtheshapeofa The strapsshouldbesnug fingers below chin and the strap. 2 snug, allowing no more than The chinstrap should be fingers to fit between your 7 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bicyclE HElMETS 8 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bicyclE HElMETS Reinforce that helmetsare for everyone , young and old,experiencedridersaswell • Help your childbeanambassador for safe bicycling • Ask your childabout peer pressure andfears ofteasing by peers for wearing abicycle • helmet properly. See Have your childteach you how to fit abicycle • Bea“Roll” Model. Childrenwatch your behavior andarelikelyto • helmet habit early andbeconsistent. Establish thebicycle • wHEN To REPlAcE AHElME The helmethasthreemainparts:straps,shellandliner. How THE bicyclE PRoTEcTS HElMET THE bRAiN How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? driving experience,abicycle helmetshouldalwaysbeapartofthegear. inexperienced. Justasitis importanttowear aseatbeltwhen inacar, regardlessof your family membersandfriends todotherightthingandwear a bicyclehelmeteveryride. arises. helmet. http://www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8010-wear_a_helmet.pdf. you leadbyexample. yourself. Childrenaremorelikelytomaintainsafe behaviorswhen to rejectwhat you tellhim/her if you donotfollowthebehavior follow your lead. As your childmatures,he/sheismorelikely your childfor wearinghis/her bicyclehelmet. The visual view of how your child• was taught to fit a helmet is shown on the previous page. Thehelmetshouldnotmoveontheheadinanydirection. • For moreinformationonwhentoreplace abicyclehelmet,seetheBicycleHelmet • Your childwastaught“Crash and Trash” • Theliner ismadeoffoamthatreducestheimpactonheadand brainby • Thesmoothshellslidesonroughpavementtolessenthechanceofjerkingneckin • Thestrapskeepthehelmetinplacewhileridingandduringacrash. • see: www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8010-wear_a_helmet.pdf. For thecompleteNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)handout, Safety Instituteatwww.bhsi.org. Buyanewbicyclehelmet. You can’talwaysseeslight damageor crackstoahelmet, • Ifthereisanydamagetothebicyclehelmet,itwillnolonger beabletodoitsjob • falls andhitshishead,replacethehelmet. absorbing theshock. the eventofacrash. so buyingabicyclehelmetat yard saleisdiscouraged. protect theheadandbrainif your childfallsandhitshishead. Role-play to enhance his/her self-confidence to stand up for themselves if the situation or “One andDone.” by havinghim/her encourageother No helmet,nobicycle. Thank This meansif your child FoR iNFoRMATioN MoRE oNbicyclE FiT, HElMET SEE: you AND youR cHilD PREVENT cAN iNjuRy AbRAiN by: you AND youR cHilD PREVENT cAN by: AcRASH crash. a in injury brain a of chance the reduce will gear to protective is wearing approach crash, a best prevent the While crash. a of risk the increases with also bicycles traffic Riding moving crash. other a of risk the increase can leaves and potholes sand, gravel, bumps, age or ridingskill,bicyclinghassomerisks.Roadhazardslikewetpavement,speed Regardless of send (www.cdc.gov/concussion/sports/facts.html). frequently rooms most emergency to that children activities the are soccer and basketball activities, playground and adolescents increased by 60 percent during the past decade. Bicycling,children for football, activities recreation and sports to related (TBI) injuries brain traumatic for visits According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), emergency department • • Understanding thateventhemostskilledadultbicyclistswear ahelmet because crashes • Wearing aproperlyfittedbicyclehelmeteveryride. • Following therulesofroadandavoidingotherswhoseactionsmight • Being visible (wearing brightcolors,reflectivewear, reflectorsandlights). • Stayingalert. • Maintainingcontrolof your bicycle. • Learningtoridesafely. • Keeping your bicyclesinsafeworkingorder. • Fit aHelmet Wear aHelmet and isbuckledinthebestwaytoprotectbrain intheeventofacrash. can happen;abicyclehelmetiswornlevelonthe head andlowontheforehead, affect your safety. or www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8019_Fitting-A-Helmet.pdf www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8010-wear_a_helmet.pdf & BRAIN INJURIES& BRAIN BICYCLE CRASHES PREVENTING 9 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > PREVENTiNg bicyclE cRASHES & bRAiN iNjuRiES 10 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > PREVENTiNg bicyclE cRASHES & bRAiN iNjuRiES wHAT you iF SHoulD Do you SuSPEcT AcoNcuSSioN iNjuRiESbRAiN AND coNcuSSioNS Someofthesymptomsa • Healthcareprofessionalsmay • A concussionisonekindof TBI, • For moreinformation, see:www.cdc.gov/concussion/signs_symptoms.html • Seekimmediatehelpfromahealthcareprofessionalor emergencydepartmentifany • Have your childstoptheactivityandtakehim/her to a medicalprovider for evaluation. • peers for “complaining.” there isaproblembecausetheyarehavingfunor donotwanttobeteasedbytheir may notwanttotell you not knowtheyarehavingproblemsor howtotell you whatiswrong. Older children while othersmaynotappear for daysor monthsafter theinjury. Sometimes,peopledo concussion appear rightaway, problems later. accumulate over time,leadingto small blowstotheheadmay serious andanumber ofrepeated Even so,their effectscanbe and mostpeoplerecover quickly. are usuallynotlife-threatening brain injurybecauseconcussions describe aconcussionas‘mild’ normally works. can changetheway your brain head, or fromafall.Concussions caused byabump,blow, jolttothe of thefollowingdanger signsappear after abump,blowor jolttotheheador body: and theindividualshouldbecarefullymonitored. Loss ofconsciousness. Any brieflossofconsciousnessshouldbe takenseriously Strange or unusualbehavior Increased confusion,restlessnessor agitation Unable torecognizepeopleor places Convulsions or seizures One pupil(theblackpartinthemiddleofeye) islarger thantheother Appears very drowsyor cannotbeawakened Slurred speech Repeated vomiting or nausea Weakness, numbness,decreasedcoordination or lossofbalance Headache thatgetsworseanddoesnotgoaway Frontal lobe Temporal lobe http://neuroskills.com/brain-injury/brain-function.php of the brain, in both English andSpanish, see: For anoverview ofthe functions ofthe different lobes Spinal cord Parietal lobe Cerebellum Occipital lobe Observe and discuss safe and unsafe bicyclist • For aninteractive activity • Reinforce wearing abicycle helmet every ride. • Take abicycling classto increase your and your child’s skill. • For more information onbeinga“Roll” Model, • Bea“Roll” Model while driving around bicyclists. • Observe anddiscusssafe andunsafe motorist • How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? Articles/Associated%20Files/811110.pdf the step-by-stepguidewww.nhtsa.gov/DOT/NHTSA/Traffic%20Injury%20Control/ helmets areeffectiveinprotectingtheir brain.Chooseoneofthethreedemonstrations in the head,fitlevelonheadandlowforehead,bebuckled. controlling your bicyclecanhelpreducesomeof your risksoffalls. www.nhtsa.gov/Driving+Safety/Bicycles/Be+a+Roll+Model give thebicyclist about anarm’s lengthofspace when Ipass.” when it’s safe. There’s notraffic, soit issafe to pass.I’mgoingto “There’s abicyclist ahead.I’mgoingto slow down, andpassher children inthecar, talkabout your drivingbehavior bysaying, out ridingor driving. or driving. to dowith your childandtheir friends,showhowbicycle behaviors see behaviors The bicyclehelmetshouldsitsecurelyon With your when you are out riding around bicyclistswhen you are Becoming moreskilledat 11 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > PREVENTiNg bicyclE cRASHES & bRAiN iNjuRiES

TRAiNiNg wHEElS cHooSE coASTER (PEDAl) bRAkES oVER HAND bRAkES cHooSE THE RigHT SizE Purchase abicyclebasedonthesizeof your childnow , notonehe/shecan“growinto.” Check out balancebikes(smallwithnopedals)tohelp teachbalanceonabicycle. • If your childisunwillingtogiveupthetrainingwheels,raisewheelssotheydonot • Startwithbothtrainingwheelsonthe groundandgraduallymovethemup. • Using handbrakesrequiresmoreunderstanding andskilltosafelystop,isbetter • Most young or smallchildrenlackthehandsizeor strengthtosqueezethehandbrakes, • Checkwithalocalbikeshopif you areunsurewhether your child’sbicyclefitscorrectly. • Adjusttheseatheightas your childgrows. • Adjustthereachofhandlebarssoit’seasyfor your childtogripthemwhilesitting • Fit the bicycle to the rider. A• bicycle that is too large is harder for your child to control, which touch theground. line andstopping. suited for whenridersaremorecomfortable andskilledinbalance,ridingastraight making pedalbrakesabetter choice. upright onthebicycle. • • increases his/her risk of a fall. Buy a bicycle for your child’s present size and skill level. seated, rather thantheentirefoot. bicycle. With moreexperienceandskill,theballs ofthefeetcantouchgroundwhile Skill buying abicyclefor mountainor off-roadbiking. Allow 1-2inchesofspacebetweentherider andthetoptube,3-4inchesofspaceif Size Your childshouldbeabletostraddlethetoptubewithbothfeetonground. For beginningriders,thefeetshouldsitflatonground whenseatedonthe CHOOSING THE RIGHT BICYCLE 13 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > cHooSiNg THE RigHT bicyclE TyPES oF bicyclES Bicycling is something the whole family can do together, and riding the proper-size bicycle is just as important for the safety of parents as it is for children. Selecting the type of bicycle best for the type of riding will also make this activity more fun and comfortable for every rider. Many types are available for pre-teens, teens and adults.

Road or Touring bikes: Designed for longer-distance riding or for transportation. They typically have down turned handlebars, narrow tires, multiple gears, integrated brakes and shifters, and a lightweight frame. These bikes are common among commuters, especially in a city.

Mountain bikes: Designed for use on different types of trail surfaces such as sand, mud, gravel and off-road conditions. These bikes are typically heavier, have a high number of gears and a front-, rear- or dual-suspension system (shocks) to deal with terrain. Wide, knobby tires, a strong frame and an upright seat make them durable and comfortable to ride. Mountain bikes are common among students and commuters.

Hybrid bikes: A cross between a road bike and a mountain bike. These bikes typically have straight handlebars, hand brakes, gears and tires with a thickness somewhere between a mountain and road bike. Most beginners prefer this type of bike. A hybrid is comfortable for smoother surfaces, such as neighborhood or trail rides.

BMX bikes: Used for trick riding and racing. They usually have smaller-sized frames, one gear and only a rear hand brake. Dirt-jumping requires safety gear including full-face helmet, shin pads and gloves. Riders — especially beginners — should consider elbow pads, knee pads and wrist guards. Not all bikes are strong enough to jump, so check with your local bike shop. Teach children not to ride other passengers on the “pegs” of the bike. Elementary school-age children enjoy bicycling on a BMX-style bike because of the smaller frame sizes.

Tandem bikes: “A bicycle built for two.” This bike makes it legal for two people to ride on one bike. It has two seats, two pairs of handlebars, two sets of pedals, but only one set of gears and brakes. Tandems require both riders to ride in harmony with each other, necessitating plenty of practice

cHooSiNg THE RigHT bicyclE RigHT THE cHooSiNg and a high level of trust. > Recumbent bikes: Allows a rider to “sit down” and pedal, with the handlebars mounted up front or down near the cyclist’s hips. Some models have three wheels. This type of bike is gaining popularity, especially among adult cyclists. Many clubs have formed just for recumbent riders.

Three-Wheeler bikes: Can be a child’s tricycle or a larger three-wheeler used by people with disabilities or seniors. They have more stability for riders who want or need more help with balance.

Boy Girl Male versus Female bikes: Refers to the bicycle frame but can be ridden by anyone based on preference. Bikes with a straight top tube are usually classified as “boy’s” bicycle. A “girl’s” bike has a

wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow PARENT EVERy wHAT sloping top tube.

• 14 Observe anddiscusssafe andunsafe bicyclist behaviors • Set specificboundaries • Rideor walk with your child • Repeat, repeat, repeat therulesofroad • Bea“Roll” Model while driving around bicyclists. • Bea“Roll” Model for children. • Reinforce bicycle helmet useevery ride. • Ride with your childat home • How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? or driving. what you areaskinghim/her todo. out for aridewith your childandreinforcethrough your actions.Let your childsee you do direction astrafficandobeyingsignssignals.Better yet, rather thanlecture,go arm’s lengthofspace between our car andthebicyclist.” traffic coming. As Ipass,I’mgoingto make sure there isabout an down andpasshim when it’s safe. It’s safe to pass when there isno you mightsay, “Look,there’s abicyclist ahead.I’mgoingto slow children inthecar, talkabout your drivingbehavior. For example, www.nhtsa.gov/Driving+Safety/Bicycles/Be+a+Roll+Model road. For moreinformation,see: Fit aHelmet —www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8019_Fitting-A-Helmet.pdf Wear aHelmet bicycle helmetfit,see: and lowontheforehead,sitsecurelyheadbebuckled.For moreinformationon — www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8010-wear_a_helmet.pdf or for where your childmayandnotride. so you knowthetrails,pathor roadshe/shewillberiding. to reinforcebalanceandsafetyskills. Wear abicyclehelmet everyrideandfollowtherulesof The bicyclehelmetshouldfitlevelonthehead with your child,includingridinginthesame With your when you areoutriding 15 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > cHooSiNg THE RigHT bicyclE

Be Alert —children andothers should: Follow theRules oftheRoad —children andothers should: streets without you andhelpingtoformahabitover time.Saysuchthings as: of what you aresaying, you arepreparinghim/her for whentheywillridinginneighborhood to bicyclinganddrivingacar. Eventhough your childmaynotfullyunderstandthecomplexity more fullyunderstandtherulesofroad,themselvesinrelationtotrafficandsimilarities a bicyclerelatestotraffic. This discussionshouldcontinuethroughthe years, aschildrencan Parents canplayanimportantroleinteachingandreinforcingwiththeir child-atanyage-how Many peoplethinkofbicyclesastoys;but,bylaw, they are vehicles whenintheroadway. Lookahead toavoidpotholes,manholes,stormdrains,rocks, sandandother hazards • Avoid ridinginamotorist’sblindspot(theareaaround acar whereadriver cannotsee • Watch for pedestrians,bicyclistsandcars. • Yield topedestrianscrossing incrosswalksor intersections. • Ride one person per seat. It is not• okay to ride someone on your handlebars or on your pegs. Use handsignalswhenturningandstopping. • Obeytrafficsignsandsignals. • Rideontheright,insamedirection ascars. • Stopbeforeenteringtheroadfromadriveway, pathor alley. Lookleft-right-leftfor • • • • • • that couldcauseafall. others inthesideor rear-view mirrors). traffic andgowhenitisclear. or pedals. Your shoesare untied. Pullover andtiethemsothelaces won’t get caught in your chain around it. See that trash (pothole,cracked sidewalk, drainage grate) aheadofus? We needto go Ride ontheright sideoftheroad, just like acar. Stop, there’s acar. We have to stop when we seeacar. Are any cars coming?Let’s lookleft,right andleft.No cars? Okay, we cango. TRAFFIC SAFETY BICYCLES & BASIC 17 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bicyclES & bASic TRAFFic SAFETy 18 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bicyclES & bASic TRAFFic SAFETy When ShouldMyWhen ChildBe Allowed to Ride With Traffic? See andBeSeen —children andothers should: Where ShouldI Allow My Childto Ride? • If your child is over age 10 age over is child your If • Keeptwohandsonthehandlebarsexceptwhensignaling.Use abasket,backpackor • Listenandwatchfor traffic;donotwear or useelectronicdeviceswhilebicycling. • For moreinformationaboutsidewalkriding,see: • If your childisunder age10 • Makeeyecontactwithcar drivers,pedestriansandother bicyclistswhencrossingor • Avoid riding at night if possible. If you must ride, the law in all states requires bicyclists• Wear brightclothestoattracttheattentionofdriversduringday, andusereflective • Althoughitmayseemsafer torideonasidewalk,itisnotwithoutrisks. • Older childrenwithmoreridingexperienceshouldlimittheir ridingtoroadswithlittle • Ridingintrafficischallenging,regardlessofage.Childrenareencouragedtoride • close supervision. supervision. caregiver’s close older or parent a without traffic negotiate to experience the lack rack tocarryitems. • • Sidewalkswithmanydriveways arenotasaferidingpathfor abicyclistofanyage. • changing your position. to use a white front light and red rear light or reflector on your helmet, clothes or bicycle. materials andlightsreflectorsinlow-lightconditionsatnight. Driversturningdonotlookfor faster-moving trafficlike • Driversdonotexpectfaster-moving trafficonsidewalksandcanpulloutor intoa • Sidewalksarefor pedestrians,notbicyclists. • weekend or streetswithdesignatedbikelanes. traffic andslower speeds,likeneighborhoodstreets,streetsclosedofftotrafficonthe www.nhtsa.gov/DOT/NHTSA/NTI/SRTS/7505-10-ChooseSafeRoutes.pdf neighborhood streets,or roadswithslower-moving traffic.For moreinformation,see: areas awayfromtrafficliketrailsor parks.Iftheydorideintraffic,limitto traffic. in riding confident and comfortable feel and road the of rules the follow safely, ride to skills www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8024a_YouthTips.pdf Bicycle Safety: Tips for Youth at: www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8024b_ParentTips.pdf or Bicycle Safety: Tips for Adults, Parents, Caregivers and Kids in acrosswalk. driveway withoutlookingfor abicyclistonsidewalk. , he/she can ride in traffic after proving that he/she has the has he/she that proving after traffic in ride can he/she , , he/sheshouldnotridealonebecausechildrenthatage a bicyclistpreparingtocross at: Bea“Roll” Model for your children • Rideontheright andpassslower-moving traffic ontheleft. • No matter where your childrides,it isalways safer to ride with others, • Talk with your childabout safer choicesfor where to ride, • When you and your childseeother bicyclists • Talk with your childabout therulesofroad • How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? when inthecar, onabicycleor onfoot. sidewalk or path. Announce, “Passingon your left,or “On your left” whenpassingona hours, andtowear brightcolorstoincreasethelikelihoodthatdriverswillsee your child. bike pathsor inapark. not, followingtherulesofroad. your childtoseehow you followtherulesofroad. by obeyingtherulesofroad on theroad,discusshowtheyare,or are when walking,bicyclingor driving. Allow like neighborhoodstreetsor during daylight 19 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bicyclES & bASic TRAFFic SAFETy

Encourage and support a community-based “Roll” model • campaign Encourage your childto bea “Roll” Model • Bea“Roll” Model: • Point out goodbehaviors andnot-so-good behaviors ofother road users when you are • How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? bEiNg A“Roll” MoDEl MEANS: observe. they behaviors the repeat often they you, watch they do only Not When you roll, whether on a bicycle or in a car, children watch you. For more information, see: www.nhtsa.gov/Driving+Safety/Bicycles/Be+a+Roll+Model. more likelytofollowwhat you doand notwhat you say. watch how you bicycleandtheywatch how you drive your car. As theymature,are the street;ridingabicycleinwrongdirection; and notwearingabicyclehelmet. good behaviorsincludeusingacellphoneor textingwhiledriving,bicyclingor crossing signs or signals;motoristswaiting to makeaturnuntilthebicyclistpasses.Somenot-so- riding ontheright,travelinginsamedirection astraffic;bicyclistsstoppingattraffic walking, bicyclingor drivingwith your children.Somegoodbehaviorsincludebicyclists • • • • • one another andshowmutualrespectfor thesakeofsafety. Sharing theRoad responsibilities ofmotorizedtraffic. bicyclist istheoperator or driver ofa vehicle withallthesamerightsand Following theRules oftheRoad level or age, always wear a bicycle helmet when on a bicycle and a seat belt when in a car. Putting Safety First Riding andDriving Prepared Riding andDriving Focused Children watch your behavior andarelikelytofollow your lead. They — All vehicle drivers(motoristsandbicyclists)shouldlookoutfor — We never know when a crash will occur; so, regardless of skill — Never distracted. — Always expect theunexpected. — A bicycleisconsidereda vehicle ontheroad;a “ROLL” MODEL for peersand for younger children. BE ABICYCLEBE SAFETY for adults and children. 21 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bEiNg A bicyclE SAFETy “Roll” MoDEl

Learning theskillofcontrolledbrakingcanpreventsomecrashesandinjuries. uSiNg oRTHE THE FRoNT REAR HAND bRAkES Bicycles haveeither coaster brakesor handbrakes. TyPES oFbRAkES they mayencounter whileriding. who canbrakeinacontrolledmanner arebetter preparedtohandlejustaboutanysituation After balancingonabicycle,learningtostopsafelyisamongthetopskillslearn.Riders • • When riders switch from pedal brakes to hand brakes, they• sometimes forget and back Bicyclesfor older childrenandadultstendtohaveonly • Children’sbicyclesusuallyhavecoaster brakes • Thefrontbrake, becauseoftheextrastoppingpower itoffers,isoftenusedin • 2. Practiceridinginareaswithlesstraffic,suchasaplayground. Using theleftbrake only • Squeezingonlytheleft • Front Brake: Teachers recommendusing therear brakeasthefirststepinlearninghowtomakea • Therear brakeallows for moregradualbraking. • Squeezingtheright • Rear Brake: 1. Startoutwithabicyclecoaster brakeand pedal first instead of using the hand brake. Two ways to make it easier for them to adjust is: hand brakes. don’t have the hand size or strength to use hand brakes well. who forchildren young choice better a are They that workbybackpedaling(pedalinginreverse). emergency brakingbythose moreskilledinriding. off theground. wheel. The bicyclestopsquickly, but therear wheelcontinuestorolland maycome controlled stop. rear wheel.Ifthebrakeissqueezed toohard,thebicyclemayskidtoastop.

Your child wastaught“Right isRear.” Your childwastaught“Left isFront.” hand brakeengagesonlytherear brake

hand brakeengagesthefront brake is notasafewaytostopfor abeginningrider.

a handbrake. LEARNING LEARNING TO BRAKE and slowsthefront and graduallyslowsthe 23 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > lEARNiNg To bRAkE • Applying both brakes at the same time slows both wheels at the same time. The bicycle will stop while keeping the rear tire on the ground. • Squeezing both brakes at the same time stops the bicycle quickly and safely. • Squeeze the rear brake and, at the same time or just slightly later, gently squeeze (or finesse) the front brake. Ask your child to show you what it means to ‘finesse’ the brake.

How Can I Support My Child’s Learning?

• Review the feel of braking by walking alongside a bicycle with your child and squeezing the rear brake, then the front brake, and then both brakes together. • Ride with your child to reinforce what he/she learned in class. • Encourage your child to use the brakes to slow or stop, rather than his/her feet, as young children often do. • Reinforce bicycle helmet use every ride. The bicycle helmet should fit level on the head and low on the forehead, sit securely on the head and be buckled. For more information on bicycle helmet fit, see: Wear a Helmet www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8010- wear_a_helmet.pdf or Fit a Helmet www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8019_Fitting-A-Helmet.pdf. • Be a “Roll” Model for all children. Wear a bicycle helmet every ride and follow the rules of the road. For more information on being a “Roll” Model, see: www.nhtsa.gov/Driving+Safety/Bicycles/Be+a+Roll+Model. • Be a “Roll” Model while driving near bicyclists. With your children in the car, talk about your driving behavior. For example, “I see a bicyclist ahead, so I’m going to slow down and pass her when it’s safe. I’m going to pass when there is no traffic and I’m going to give the bicyclist about an arm’s length of space when I pass.” • Repeat, repeat, repeat the rules of the road with your child, including riding in the same lEARNiNg To bRAkE lEARNiNg To direction as traffic, and obeying traffic signs and signals. Go for a ride with your child to > reinforce safe riding through your actions. Let your child see you do what you are asking him/her to do. • Ride or walk with your child so you know the routes he/she uses. • Set specific boundaries for where your child may and may not ride. • When you are out riding or driving, observe and discuss safe and unsafe bicyclist behaviors. wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow PARENT EVERy wHAT

• 24 one another for the sake of safety. Share theWhether Road: Same you Roads; are bicycling Same Rules; or Samedriving Rights. a car, please be cautious. Usefun commonor the sensesimple andjoy ofbe the courteous sport of cycling.to Some chooseenvironment. to ride bicyclesOthers choose because to ride theirthey do bicycles not drive.to work or school for exercise,Some choose weight bicycling loss,because offamily high gas prices, others because of concerns about traffic or the of all types and ages — from athletes to everyday folks — areBicycling choosing is one to of bicycle the most efficient,for various cleanest reasons.and healthiest means of transportation. More people www.nhtsa.gov/Bicycles. Safety Administration (NHTSA)at safely; visit theNational Highway Traffic Learn moreabouthowtoride ontheroad every ride. Wear aproperlyfittedbicyclehelmet states. all in law by required as or reflector, rearlight red and light front white a use night, at bike to choose If you clothing. or reflective Be Wearcolored visible. brightly away from parked cars on the street. out for opening car doors; ride an arm’s lengthto avoid them without swerving into traffic. WatchScan ahead for obstacles in the roadway and learn rear-view mirrors). cannot seeothersthrougheither thesideor of drivers’ blindspots(areaaroundacar adriver position yourself sothat you are visible. Stayout possible. When approachinganintersection, all turns.Stayasfar totherightassafely Ride inthesamedirectionastraffic,andsignal signs andsignals. vehicle operator. Obeyalltrafficlaws, Bicycles are vehicles ontheroad,and you area SHARE THE ROAD MOTORISTS & bicycle coalition. or doasearchfor “sharetheroad” + your local http://exchange.aaa.com/safety/bicycle-safety/ www.bikeleague.org/action/sharetheroad.php, visit theLeagueof American Bicyclists at bicyclists; with road the sharing about more Learn turn or when coming out of driveway or alley. backing out of a parking space, before making a Look for bicyclists before opening your car door, passing. when bicyclist the and you between feet three least at allow and down Slow intersections. at especially roadway, the along bicyclists for Look into trafficor crash. startle bicyclistsandcancausethemtoswerve Avoid blowing your horn,unlesscritical.Horns lanes. traffic narrow of or because more visible, be to turns, make to car doors, debris, avoid to lane the into further move to have may they possible, safely as lane the in far right as ride should bicyclists While bicyclists. around patient and cautious Be otherwise. posted unless roadway the on ride to law the under Watch for bicyclistsintraffic;theyhavearight BICYCLISTS: 25 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > MoToRiSTS & bicycliSTS: SHARE THE RoAD 26 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > MoToRiSTS & bicycliSTS: SHARE THE RoAD • Bea“Roll” model. • How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? being courteoustoother roadusers. the road focused Top thingstomodel:wearing abicycle helmet likely tofollowwhat you doandnotwhat you say. you drive your car aroundbicyclists. As theymature,aremore to follow your lead. They watchhow you bicycle andtheywatchhow — putdowntheelectronicdevices;following therulesof as amotoristandbicyclist;passingbicyclistswithcare; Children watch your behavior andaremorelikely — everytime;staying Pay attention to your surroundings, including traffic. Devote your full attention to one task one to attention full your Devote traffic. including surroundings, your to attention Pay Never text, surf the web or read your email while driving, bicycling or walking; it’s dangerous. X THE TEXT does notapplywhen you arewalking or bicycling. Ask apassenger tomakethecallfor you so your attentionstaysfocused ondriving. This uSE youR PASSENgERS or crossingadrivewaywhileonsidewalk. ahead of you and you havefinishedcrossingthestreet.Bealertwhilewalkinginparkinglots pull over andoutoftrafficfirst. When you arewalking,waituntil you haveaclear walkway If you needtoconnectwithsomeonethroughanelectronicdevicewhiledrivingor bicycling, Pull oVER you willgetbacktothemassoonpossible,or signupfor aservice thatoffersthis. Set upaspecialmessageon your cellphonethatsendscallersor texters amessagesaying THESPREAD woRD your statehasalawagainstwearingheadphoneswhilebicycling. the headphonesandear plugsso you canfocusall your attentionontheroad. Take noteif won’t hear theringor incomingtextmessage.Putawayallelectronic devicesandtakeout Turn off your phoneor silenceitbefore you begintodrive,rideor walkaroundtraffic,so you iTTuRN oFF lots and crossing the street. Always use your eyes and yourears tofull focus attention on your to thesurroundings. matter at hand. Hold young children’sbicycle, pullinghands when in awalking trailer in orparking who are bicycling with you.over Pull to aoff safe the location roadway andso turnyou canoff devotethe motor. Do the sameWhen with you children need to youaddress are carryingsituations on inyour the car with your children,kEEP THoSE iN youR SAFE cARE other passengers or pets, pull for pedestrians,bicyclist anddrivers. driving, bicycling or walking. Follow thetipsfor managingthe10 most commondistractions Distraction around traffic posesasafety riskfor everyone ontheroad, whether you are at a time. a at WALKING &BICYCLING DISTRACTED DRIVING, 27 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > DiSTRAcTED DRiViNg, wAlkiNg & bicycliNg kNow THE lAw Some states and localities do not allow the use of handheld cell phones or electronic devices when driving (see www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html). Even with these laws, drivers do not always do what is lawful. Protect yourself by watching for those who are not giving their full attention to the road and you.

PREPARE Program electronic devices for directions before you begin your trip and know the route you will take. If you need help when you are on the road, stop in a safe location to review the map or directions.

FocuS oN THE TASk AT HAND Do not participate in any activity that takes your hands off the wheel or handlebars, or your mind and eyes off the road when driving or bicycling. When walking, stay focused on road and traffic conditions, using your eyes and ears. Be wary in parking lots and when crossing driveways.

SEcuRE youR PETS Pets can be a distraction in or around the car, so always secure them properly before starting to drive. Before you leave, secure your pets in your car, your house or your yard. Loose pets are a distraction and safety risk for those driving, walking or bicycling. When you are walking your pets, make sure they are on a leash so you have full control. Avoid walking or riding close to animals that are not leashed. Adapted from “10 Tips for Managing the Most Common Distractions,” Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA).

How Can I Support My Child’s Learning?

• Be a “Roll” Model: Children watch your behavior and are likely to follow your lead. They watch how you bicycle and they watch how DiSTRAcTED DRiViNg, wAlkiNg & bicycliNg wAlkiNg DRiViNg, DiSTRAcTED you drive your car. As they get older, they are more likely to reject

> what you tell them if you do not follow the road safety behaviors yourself. • Top things to model in transportation related activities: • Wear a bicycle helmet and buckle up every time. • Ride your bicycle in the same direction as traffic. • Stay focused; don’t use electronic devises when driving, bicycling or walking around traffic. • Follow the rules of the road, including obeying all traffic signs and signals. • Obey the speed limit when driving and slow down when around bicyclists and pedestrians. • Be courteous to all road users, drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians. wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow PARENT EVERy wHAT

• 28 W W W W W W W W W traffic andpreventacrashfromhappeninginthefirstplace. traffic), therearethingsthat you and your childrencandotoincrease your safetyaround (sidewalks, separate bike lanes, traffic signals, or help from law enforcement to slow speeding While the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists may require changes to the physical environment 2. 1. walking andbicyclingalsorequiresthinkingahead,meansthat you and your children: Defensive do. might drivers other what anticipating driving, defensive practicing years Parents are encouraged to teach or reinforce defensive walking and bicycling. People spend Walking B B B B B B B B Identify situationsthatexpose you toariskofbeinghitbytraffic. Adjust your behavior todecrease your risk asmuchpossible. Drivers maynotsee you or bepayingattention. Be readytostopatdriveways andintersectionswhenwalkingor ridingonasidewalk. doesn’t meantheycansee you. when it’shardtosee(dusk,dawn,fogor night). You mightbeabletoseeothers,butit Give driversextratimetoslowor stop, especiallyinpoor weather (ice,snow, rain),and tailpipe, back-upbeeps.)Makesurethedriver sees you andstopsbefore you continue. Stop if you seea vehicle backingup.(Lookfor whiteback-uplights,exhaustfrom more time you havetoact. driveway, backupor changelanes. The sooner you knowtheremightbeaconflict,the Predict whatother roadusersmight do,likemakeaturn,pulloutofparkingspaceor crossing; if you arenotsuretheysaw you, waitfor themtopass. Expect thatother roaduserswillnotsee you. Makeeyecontactwith motorists before use awhitelightinfrontandredor reflector intherear. backpack andbicycle.If you mustwalkor bicycleinlow-lightconditions or atnight, Increase your visibility. Wear brightcolorsandreflectivematerialon your clothes, music. Keep your eyesandearsfocusedontheroadtrafficaround you. Stay focusedandalertwhenaroundtraffic.Donottext,talkonthephoneor listento behind you. Look for other traffic(pedestrians,bicyclistsandcars)byscanningfront, left,rightand WALKING &BICYCLING B Biking DEFENSIVE 29 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > DEFENSiVE wAlkiNg & bicycliNg Be aware of things that make it hard for traffic to see you, like bushes, branches or other W B traffic. When more than one lane of traffic is going in the same direction, one car can act as a “visual barrier” so that the driver in the next lane cannot see you. Stop at each edge and look before continuing to cross. Look for traffic before crossing a street, driveway or alley. Look left, right, left again, and W B proceed only when clear. Scan and keep scanning while crossing a street, driveway or alley. Make eye contact or B communicate with traffic as you cross. Even if you have the right of way, be prepared to get out of the way quickly if you think a driver doesn’t see you (doesn’t make eye contact, doesn’t slow down or doesn’t get out of the way). Expect drivers to pull out from side streets, alleys and driveways, to turn left or right in B front of you, and to open car doors in your path. Give yourself at least an arm’s length from parked cars on the street. Pay attention, especially at intersections, driveways or alleys. Watch for a car’s turn B signals, frequent braking, or drivers “looking” either right, left or behind, which may mean they are getting ready to turn or change lanes. Be prepared to stop or turn quickly to avoid a crash at intersecting streets. On-bicycle B classes can teach these more-advanced skills to avoid crashes. Use extreme caution. Stop, scan or walk your bicycle through challenging intersections.

B Follow the pedestrian signs and signals if you are riding on a sidewalk and crossing the street. Avoid riding close to drivers who are weaving or not maintaining their position in a B lane. They may be using electronic equipment or may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Keep stunts and tricks off streets and roads. Just as race cars and stunt cars belong B on racetracks, not on regular streets and highways, bicycle tricks should be practiced only on playgrounds, bike parks or other confined areas. DEFENSiVE wAlkiNg & bicycliNg wAlkiNg DEFENSiVE

> How Can I Support My Child’s Learning?

• Point out safe and unsafe situations as you see them. Explain defensive strategies you take when driving, walking or bicycling because of what you perceive to be happening or might happen. • With your children in the car, talk about your driving behavior. For example, you might say, “There’s a person in that car ahead and he looks like he’s going to back out of that parking space. I’ll bet he doesn’t see me. I’d better slow down and be prepared to stop.” • Repeat, repeat, repeat the rules of the road with your child, including riding in the same direction as traffic, and obeying traffic signs and signals. Go out for a ride with your child and reinforce through your actions. Let your child see you do what you are asking him/her to do. wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow PARENT EVERy wHAT

• 30 bicycliSTS SHoulD: avoid injuryrisks. tips. Following thesetipshelpsbicyclistsandotherstobecourteousofoneanother and road. While therearenosetruleswhenusing amulti-usetrail,herearesomesuggested sometimes, horses. When abicyclistisriding on aroadwithcars,therearesetrulesofthe challenges ofsharingapathwithpedestrians,runners,in-lineskaters,dogwalkersand Riding onmulti-usetrailslimitsthedangersofbeingaroundcars,butintroduces Follow postedtrailsigns,including whenpreparingtocrossroadwaytraffic. • Avoid ridingabicycleatnight,ifpossible.If you mustrideat night,usewhitefront • Obeyallpostedsigns,especiallywhen crossingaroadway. Stopattheedge ofthe • Keepbothhandsonthehandlebars unlesssignaling.Use abasket,backpackor rack • Use your eyestolookaheadavoidhazardsonthepaththatcouldcause you to • Use your earstolistenfor otherscomingupbehind you. Donotwear headphonesor • Passother trailusersontheleft. Warn thosebehindbyusingaleftturnsignal, • Bepredictable.Rideinastraightline,unlesspassingothers. • Stayalertfor peoplewalkingandrunningonthetrail. • Wear abicyclehelmetoneveryride. Whether thepathispaved,dirt,maintainedor • materials onbicyclesandclothes. lights andredrear lightsor reflectors,asrequiredbylawinallstates. Wear reflective crossing theroad. road andlookleft-right-leftfor traffic. Makesurealllanesoftrafficstopbefore to carryitems. crash, likerocks,sticksor fallentreelimbs. use electronicdevicesthatcandistract you andothers. ringing your bikebellor sayingoutloud“Passingon your left,” or “On your left.” extending your leftarmstraight.Cautionthoseinfrontthat you wantto passby risk ofaheadinjuryintheeventcrash. not, fallscanhappen. A properlyfittedbicyclehelmetisthebestwaytoreduce MULTI>USE TRAILS BICYCLING ON 31 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bicycliNg oN MulTi-uSE TRAilS 32 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > bicycliNg oN MulTi-uSE TRAilS Bea“Roll” Model for safe behaviors, • Demonstrate, • Go for aride with your childonatrail andpracticefollowingthemulti-usetrailtips. • How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? trails andbeforecrossingaroad. foot byfollowingthemulti-usetrailtipsandpostedsignsalong behavior onthetrail. When you comeacrossother bicyclists,discusshowtheyareor arenotpracticinggood how tobecourteousotherswhileriding. whether onabicycleor on

fit. Checktomakesuretheyaretight,closedproperly andfacinginthecorrectdirection. for quickremovalofthewheelsand theabilitytoraiseor lower theseatfor proper Some bicycleshavequickreleasesonthewheels and theseatpost. This allows Quick iSFoR THE Quick RElEASE work toshiftthechainbetweengears. mechanism) (gear-changing derailleurs and levers gear the sure make to check gears, has bike the If debris. or built-up rust any have not should chain The wheel. rear the drives chain the if see to cranks and pedals the Try to wiggle the crank arms side to side. There should be no movement. Spin c iSFoR cRANkS, cHAiN AND cASSETTE the rimsproperly. the brakelever. The brake padsshouldbeclean,straightandcontact touch the handlebars. Lift one tire off the ground,not do spinthey sure it,make andto squeezelevers the squeeze brakes, For hand brake. the apply and wheel back the spin brakes, Forcoaster shop professional inspect and tune up your bicycles at least once a year, if your family rides often. — called ABC Quick Check — on what to check beforeIt is eachimportant to keep you and your child’s bicycle in safe working condition. Here are some tips

Check tomakesurethebrakeswillstopbicycle. cHEck iSFoR cHEck After making suretheseatandhandlebarsaretightat proper height, well andthat your childiscomfortableonthe bicycle. b iSFoR bRAkES have your childridethebicycleinasafeenvironment awayfromtraffic,such as aroundtheparkinglot or grassyfield.Checkthateverything isworking A iSFoR AiR and other damage. Check the air pressure, and add air if needed. Look for the correct pressure been taught“hardasarock.” Also, spinthetirestolookfor wear rating onthetiresidewall.Eachshouldfeelfirm. Your childhas ABC QUICK CHECK

MAINTAINING

A BICYCLE: ride. It is a good idea to have a bicycle

33 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > MAiNTAiNiNg A bicyclE: Abc Quick cHEck 34 • wHAT EVERy PARENT SHoulD kNow > MAiNTAiNiNg A bicyclE: Abc Quick cHEck For more information onbicycle helmet fit,see: • Reinforce bicycle helmet usefor every ride.Thehelmetshouldsitlevelontheforehead, • Perform andreinforce • Ride with your childtoreinforcewhatheor shehaslearnedinclass. • How Can ISupport My Child’s Learning? fit securelyontheheadandbebuckled. • or • Fit aHelmet Wear aHelmet www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8019_Fitting-A-Helmet.pdf www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/bicycles/pdf/8010-wear_a_helmet.pdf the ABC QuickCheckwith your childbeforeeveryride.