Teaching children to get around by bike

Children need to expend energy every day: show them how to pedal, take them to school by bike and teach them how to get around your neighborhood.

Before hitting the streets

It's important to get your child used to pedaling before he or she can ride a bike safely.

  1. Practice in a schoolyard, park or alleyway
  2. When you feel he's ready, accompany him on quiet streets to help him learn how to use the road network.

Please note that the Highway Safety Code prohibits everyone from driving on the sidewalk. except in case of necessity or if authorized by signs. However, it is generally accepted that cyclists under the age of 10 can ride on the sidewalk if they ride slowly and watch out for pedestrians.

Pedaling with your child: in front or behind?

When parents and children ride together in the street, two methods are appropriate. It's up to you to decide which one best suits your child's personality and the situation.

Riding behind the child
Riding behind your child will enable you to see how he behaves and give him advice.

Rolling in front of the child
Riding in front of your child allows you to anticipate what may happen.

Riding with children

A bicycle is a child's first means of transport, and can provide extraordinary independence, provided the child has mastered its use. Your child can acquire this mastery if you multiply the opportunities to ride with him or her.

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