This post is sponsored by the City of Overland Park.
E-scooters and e-bikes are at the top of many pre-teens’ and teens’ wishlists this holiday season.
Electric scooters and bikes offer fun and freedom for kiddos, but they can be dangerous if your kids aren’t ready to handle the responsibilities and safety risks of the open road (or sidewalks or bike lanes).
Before you wrap up a scooter for this year’s big gift, make sure your child is well-prepared to get around safely. Follow these safety tips for a fun, worry-free ride:
Learning control
Help your kids start slow and learn to control their scooter or e-bike. Make sure they know how to use the brakes and use them properly.
Make sure they go slowly
Some scooters include speed governors. Parents, consider using them. A few miles per hour slower could make the difference between a near miss and an injury.
Be seen and be safe
Ensure your child has reflective clothing. Add lights and reflective tape to their scooters if they plan to ride at night.
Plan the right route
Riders should use sidewalks or bike lanes. If those are not available, help your child choose a different route.
Tell them to look before crossing streets and ride with the flow of traffic.
Tell your children to be as predictable as possible when riding. Riding erratically increases the chances of a collision.
Make sure your children use crosswalks and intersections if they’ll be crossing busy streets.
Helmets are a non-negotiable
Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in a crash.
Set and enforce helmet rules when your kids are using their scooters. A new helmet if your child’s favorite color could be the key to them choosing to wear it.
Be aware of your surroundings
Kids should not wear earbuds while riding to ensure they can hear traffic around them.
Drivers have responsibility too
The responsibility for safe riding extends beyond parenting and into the driver’s seat.
Pre-teens and teens may not be licensed drivers, but if you’re behind the wheel, you are responsible for the safety of those around you.
When you’re driving in the neighborhood, be extra cautious, especially at night or in low visibility.
Stop at least five feet before every crosswalk or intersection. Look carefully in all directions before proceeding.
The gift of the open road
Giving a child an e-scooter is about more than just new wheels; it’s about giving them a dose of independence.
As parents, we know that independence requires responsibility.
By setting these ground rules early, you’re helping your child enjoy their new gift safely for years to come.
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