Learning to ride a bike is a big milestone for kids, and a great way to build independence and healthy habits. A few simple steps can make every ride safer. Please take a moment to review these tips as a family and share them with your young riders:

Wear a helmet every ride. It should sit level, low on the forehead and snug under the chin. Do a quick fit check before rolling out.

Be visible and predictable. Use lights and reflectors, ride in a straight line and signal turns. Make eye contact with drivers at intersections.

Choose the safest route. Stick to low-traffic streets, trails and marked bike routes when possible. Practice the route to school together.

Match riding to age and skill. Younger children should ride with an adult, walk bikes across busy intersections and avoid riding at dusk or after dark.

Check tire air pressure, brakes, and chain. If something looks or feels off, don’t ride until it’s fixed.

Model the rules. Kids copy what we do as adults. Stop at stop signs, look left-right-left, ride with traffic and stay alert.

Motorized bikes and scooters with gas or electric engines can cause unsafe conditions with inexperienced drivers in crowded conditions with pedestrians and traffic. Please discuss this with your child if they have access to that type of vehicle. City ordinance prohibits riding motorized devices on sidewalks/trails and by unlicensed riders on public streets.

Resources:

• Smart Bicycling (Save Mo Lives) - Short safety video, tips and an interactive quiz kids can do in minutes

• Safety in Seconds: Bike Helmets (Safe Kids) - One-minute video to check fit the right way, every time

• MoDOT Bike & Pedestrian Safety Brochure - A printable guide you can keep on the fridge or share with caregivers

• Safe Kids Worldwide (Bike Safety Tips) - Clear, age-based guidance and short safety videos, including how to choose the right helmet size

• BikeWalkKC - Local programs, “Safe Routes” info and school-friendly resources to keep kids rolling safely in the KC area

Thank you for helping us keep our Bulldogs safe on the road and on the way to school. Ride smart and have fun!