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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Sima Fontanilla | Posted under Recreation and Sports
6 Tips To Take Your Toddler For A Ride
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1. Tow a Trailer The tow behind trailers designed for taking your child for a ride may not look overly safe but they, in fact, are. Even if you take a tumble, there is a good chance that your toddler's trailer will stay upright. This makes these trailers a great choice for toddlers. 2. Child Carrier If you are uncomfortable using a trailer because you feel you do not have enough control over the situation, then use a child carrier. The child carrier usually attaches to the rear rack on your bike. There are several options available such as the ability to recline the chair so your toddler can nap in comfort. There are also styles that put the toddler in front of the adult. The only problem with this style is it may block your visibility. 3. Use a helmet I'm sure we don't have to remind you about safety. Not only is it illegal to bike without a helmet, it's not smart! This goes for your toddler too. For some reason, parents don't think of their toddlers as actually bike riding so they tend not to put a helmet on them. Any child over the age of 1 or who can hold up their own head should be wearing a helmet to keep them safe. It also programs them at a very young age that a helmet and biking go hand in hand. 4. Securely fastenedWhether you are using a trailer or a carrier your child needs to be securely fastened. You need to make sure that the harness system meets or exceeds all standards. A harness is of no use if on impact it pulls itself free from the carrier. You also need to be sure your toddler will not be able to open the clasp when you aren't looking. This could result in a tragic accident. 5. Let them adjustBefore taking off on that long bike ride with your toddler in tow, get them use to the idea. First start by placing them in the trailer or carrier before it is even attached to the bike. Let them sit in it, play in it, in general just get use to the idea. Next attach it to the bike and take them for short jaunts no longer than 5 minutes. Each day you can increase the length of time. You can also judge what the maximum length of time your toddler is willing to sit still in the seat before starting to fuss. This will allow you to better plan your bike rides. 6. Keep your toddler happyIf your planning to do trips that extend past 30 minutes you are going to have to figure out a way to keep your child amused. Loose toys aren't going to be a good idea because they are most likely going to be found scattered along the road as your child drops them. You might figure out a way of attaching their favorite toy to the trailer or carrier so that it can't get dropped. Be sure the cord attaching it is short enough so as not to fall over and get caught in the wheels or become a danger. Also never attach it directly to the child who could accidentally choke themselves without you even being aware there is a problem. It won't be long before your toddler becomes a seasoned rider that you can take with you on all your biking expeditions. In fact after the first trip or two you'll most likely find your toddler nodding off just as they wood in a car. Following these 6 tips will keep your toddler happy and safe! About The Author: Sima Fontanilla is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - http://www.articleclick.com |
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