Gab got a balance bike at 3.  This bike makes him love the outdoors even more.

Some may find it exaggerated with him on his full gear when riding his bike but I would like him to know and practice bike safety even at this early stage.

Look Lolo! We’re getting better with the balance bike! #balancebike #strider

A video posted by TAlKaBOut Running (@takboph) on Mar 3, 2014 at 1:47am PDT

Here are some bike safety tips for children:

Get Protected

Use a no helmet, no ride policy. Helmet gives protection for the face, and head in case they might fall down.  A head injury can mean brain injury so it is important to wear a properly fitted helmet – not too small nor too big – in a correct way. When Gab got his bike, I insisted that other than the helmet, he also get arm and knee pads.  That’s additional protection for the parts mostly injured during a ride.

Wear Appropriate Shoes

Wear the right shoes — sneakers — when going for a ride.  Sandals, flip-flops, or shoes with heels are not advisable. Riding barefoot is also never recommended.

Water break. Bike at the park. #strider #balancebike #bike @striderbikes A photo posted by TAlKaBOut Running (@takboph) on Mar 3, 2014 at 1:38am PST

Ride only on safe grounds

Establish a rule that riding can only be done in a park, play ground or an open space and not on the roads.  A bike or jogging path that is free of cars is a great choice if available in your area. Just remember to share it with the other riders, runners and strollers.

Riding on the Correct Side

If you have to ride outside in front of your yard or a village road where cars passes, small children should use the side walk. If they have to be on the road, teach them to ride on the same direction of the traffic. Make them aware of the intersections. Let them keep an eye on the road ahead so they can see hills, road obstacles, puddles, and kids in the way.

Riding Together On the Street

When riding together with friends, ride single-file on the street. When passing other bikers or people, teach little riders to always pass to their left side, and call out “On your left!” so that others will know that someone is coming.

Bike riding is great outdoor activity for  both adults and kids. It will not be a smooth ride all the time but we can still get protected when we are aware on how to ride safely.

Another alternative to keep kids active is skating. While it might seem dangerous, skating is a great activity for kids especially hockey.