For a lot of children, bicycles play an important part in their physical and emotional development.  Most adults have fond memories of getting their very first bike and the freedoms associated with it.  Freedom to explore, freedom to hang out with friends and freedom to play around and have fun.  However, there is a more serious side to cycling that a lot of children don't consider.  Unfortunately a lot of parents don't consider the serious side of cycling either because they see a bicycle as a toy, rather than a vehicle.

Cycling can be a great way for a child to develop, provided education, encouragement and direction from parents is provided. Children are not little adults and we shouldn't expect them to act like adults when riding a bike.  Prior to riding in traffic children need to improve their skills and confidence by practising activities in a safe and controlled environment like a back yard or park.

There are some simple tips you can follow before allowing your child to ride beyond the perimeter of the back yard. 

These tips can be found in Kids in Traffic, Bike Ed, Children's Bikes and Kids Clothing.