IN Cranberry Spring 2017 | Page 13

INDUSTRY INSIGHT
PARENTING
D
uring the summer months, it is important to verify bike
readiness by running through this checklist to ensure your
children’s safety.
• Make sure their helmet still fits properly. If the helmet is too small
or has previously been involved in a crash or has been damaged,
replace it.
• Clean off all the dust on the bike and check for loose parts, this
includes the seat and handlebars.
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• Check and inflate the tires. Also, check for tire wear and dry rot.
• Adjust the seat. Your children have grown since the last time they
rode their bikes. When seated on the bike, your child should be
able to stand on the balls of both feet.
• Check the handlebars. They should be easy to grasp without
leaning forward.
• Make sure the brakes are working properly and there is no wear.
• Buy the appropriate sized bike. Never buy a bike that your child
will “grow into.”
Bike Helmet Safety
Many children do not like wearing helmets because they fear they
are “uncool.” Because of this, it is important to have your children
start wearing a helmet with their first tricycles or play vehicles to get
them in the habit. Let your children know you expect them to wear a
helmet every time they ride. Be a role model and wear a helmet when
you ride your bike; your children are more likely to wear a helmet if
they see you demonstrating good safety.
Allowing your children to choose their own helmet will increase the
probability that they will want to wear it. Make sure when purchasing
a new helmet that it is the correct size. Never buy a helmet that your
child will “grow into.”
• The helmet should sit level on your child’s head. It should be
low on the forehead, about one or two finger widths above their
eyebrows.
• Adjust the straps so they meet in a “V” right under each ear.
• Adjust the chinstrap snugly under the chin so that no more than
one or two fingers fit under the strap. Keep the helmet tight
enough so the helmet pulls down when you child opens his or
her mouth.
• Always make sure helmet straps are buckled when your child is
riding.
This Industry Insight was written by Dina & Matt Speranza.
They are the owners of The Goddard School® located
at 8065 Rowan Road in Cranberry. Goddard offers both
full- and part-time infant/preschool/kindergarten programs.
For more information, visit www.goddardschool.com or call
724.778.9999.
*Offer valid for new Goddard families at the above location only. Some program restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer.
The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc.
Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems Inc. 2016.
Cranberry | Spring 2017 | icmags.com 11