Do you remember learning to ride a bike? For me, even though it’s well over 30 years ago, I still remember the little blue-and-yellow Elf two-wheeler that was my very first bike.
I also remember the endless patience of my parents as we worked from the trike through the training wheels to the first wobbly solo excursions. All the crashes were worth it the first time I was able to pedal alongside them on a family ride.
Instilling a love of bikes in kids is a gift that will keep on giving during their entire lives. Sustainable transport, health, fitness, competition, riding with friends, pure joy on a sunny day — these are benefits that never grow old. I don’t have kids of my own but I love seeing my nephews and my friends’ children learning to ride and discovering the joy and freedom that bikes can bring.
So, with many thanks to all the friends who provided tips, suggestions and examples, here are some thoughts on how to help kids learn to love the bike.
Fun comes first
Firstly, make it fun. Learning to ride a bike shouldn’t be a chore or an uphill battle. Don’t let the spills turn into a big deal; they’re bound to happen, and they’re just a part of the learning curve. (Hey, if you fall down, at least you’ve learned that you can get up again.)
Respect road rules
Teach respect for the rules of the road from the very beginning. This will serve them well into the future.
Training wheels not just a metaphor
Use whatever tools you need to make the learning process easier — and more fun.
Training wheels for confidence and a cute helmet for extra enthusiasm are two things that can empower a child. I speak from experience when I say kitty ears on a girl’s helmet can work wonders.
As skills progress, consider trying a family jersey or matching colours or even purchasing a new bike following a particularly big accomplishment.
Know their limit
Know when the kids will have had enough. For longer rides, one family brings a chariot so when their five-year-old’s little legs reach their cycling limit, he and his bike can be loaded up for the remaining distance.
This keeps the ride a fun experience for him even if it’s a little past his current capacity and means he can participate in events where he can’t necessarily cover the full distance by himself.
Make it a habit
Work cycling into the family routine. A friend of mine does “commuter Fridays” with his kids, and the whole family rides to school together.
Rain isn’t a reason for this family to avoid cycling. In fact, riding in defiance of the weather has become a motivating factor for the girls.
Easy does it
Find easy rides that the whole family can enjoy as the kids gain confidence. Some really good local routes featuring easy trails away from heavy traffic include Pacific Spirit Park, New Brighton Park, the jetties at Richmond’s Iona Beach Park, the Coquitlam River trail, and Richmond’s West Dyke.
When I think of all the wonderful places my bikes have taken me, I’m grateful my parents saw me through that wobbly transition to my very first bike.
Feel free to share your own childhood cycling memories and useful tips or recommendations for cycling with your kids.
Kay Cahill is a cyclist and librarian who believes bikes are for life, not just for commuting. Reach her at [email protected]
