As the weather warms up, families are heading outside to enjoy bike rides together. May is Bike Safety Month—an ideal time to start or continue conversations with children about how to stay safe while riding. A few simple reminders and regular check-ins can make every ride safer.
The Injury Prevention Center (IPC), a program of Connecticut Children’s Office for Community Child Health, co-leads Watch for Me CT, a statewide initiative focused on improving safety for bicyclists and pedestrians. One of the most important ways to protect children is by teaching them safe habits and reinforcing those lessons through everyday conversations.
First Things First: Talk About Helmets
Helmets are the most important thing a child can wear while riding. They protect the head during a fall or crash and can even save a life. In Connecticut, all children under 16 must wear a helmet when riding anything with wheels. Helmets are also required for e-bike riders, regardless of age.
To help your child wear their helmet correctly, show them the 2-V-2 rule. The helmet should sit just above their eyebrows—about two finger-widths. The straps should form a “V” under each ear, and the chin strap should be snug, but not tight. You should be able to slide two fingers under it comfortably.
If your child falls and hits their head, even if the helmet looks fine, it should be replaced. The inner foam may be damaged and won’t protect as well the next time.
Know Where to Ride
Help your child understand the safest places to ride. Bike lanes or multi-use paths are best. If sidewalks are available, younger children should use them. In areas without sidewalks, teach older kids how to ride safely on the road.
Let them know that bikes must follow the same rules as cars. That means riding in the same direction as traffic, stopping at red lights and stop signs, and using signals to show turns or stops. Practicing these skills together is a great way to build confidence and awareness.
Remind them that drivers are required by law to leave at least three feet of space when passing someone on a bike. It’s one more reason to stay alert and ride predictably.
Be Easy to See
Because bikes are smaller than cars, it’s important to help children understand how to stay visible. If they ride at dusk or in the dark, their bike needs a white light in front, a red light in back, and reflectors on the sides.
Wearing bright or reflective clothing also helps, and many kids enjoy adding stickers or reflective gear to their helmets, bikes, or shoes. Riding with a parent or in a group not only increases visibility but also gives younger riders more support and supervision.
Stay Alert and Aware
Talk to your child about staying focused while riding. Before crossing a street or intersection, they should always stop and look left, right, then left again. Help them learn to watch out for cars pulling out, other bikes, and people walking nearby.
If they like listening to music, suggest using just one earbud so they can still hear traffic. Or consider bone conduction headphones that allow sound from the environment to come through clearly.
Keep the Conversation Going
Bike safety isn’t a one-time lesson—it’s an ongoing conversation. Taking time to talk before each ride, practicing safe habits together, and setting a strong example all help children feel more confident and prepared.
To explore more resources and tips for bike and pedestrian safety, visit Watch for Me CT.