Bicycles

The right size bicycle, helmet and equipment is the first principle of safety when getting your child ready for cycling.
The child should fit comfortably on the bike; do not buy a larger bike to "grow into."
Younger and beginning cyclists should not try to learn with high-rise seats or additional equipment such as hand brakes or gears that may confuse them at critical times.
Discuss with your child the rules of the road as well as safe cycling habits, and bicycle maintenance procedures.
Most fatal cycling accidents are head injuries. Like wearing seat belts, teach your child to wear a helmet from the first time he rides. Remember that children learn by example. All family members should wear a helmet when cycling. A helmet should be worn squarely on top of the head, covering the top of the forehead. If it is tipped back, it will not protect the forehead. The helmet fits well if it does not move around the head or slide down over the wearer's eyes when pushed or pulled. Adjust the chinstrap to fit snugly. A toddler's or child's helmet should fit for several years. Most models have removable fitting pads that can be replaced with thinner ones as the child's head grows.