Children need to develop skills to become independent road users. Children under 9 years cannot concentrate, see as far and judge distances as well as older children so road safety needs to taught and practiced with an adult. Bike Ed is a great way for the students to learn how to be safer cyclists
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Stop on the footpath
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Look both ways, into the distance for cars
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Listen for cars, trucks, bikes
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Think can I make it safely across?
Children aged 12 and under
Children aged 12 and under are permitted to cycle on the footpath, any adult accompanying them is also permitted to cycle on the footpath. Before going on a ride ensure that your child can:
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Steer the bike.
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Use the brakes.
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Understand simple instructions like “STOP".
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Understand that they must obey your instructions at all times.
Remember
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Cycle behind your children- don’t be afraid to use your voice.
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Before cycling instruct the children to stop on the path before any intersection.
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Instruct the children not to approach an intersection without an adult.
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Show them how to use the STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, THINK technique before crossing the road.
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Instruct the children to listen and STOP for cars coming out of driveways.
Older children
Cycling skills vary from child to child. Once they have mastered cycling on the path and understand and have the skills to obey the road rules you may feel confident that they can cycle unassisted on the paths or you may teach them how to cycle on road in quiet streets.
Remember
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The children should use the STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, THINK technique before crossing intersections.
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Go through the cycling tips on this page before they set out.
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Check out your school and see if Bike Ed training is available. You might like to become an assistant.