Tips To Get Your Kids to Wear a Bike Helmet

How do I know what kind of bicycle helmet to get?
There are safety standards for helmets. Make sure there is a "Snell", "ANSI" , or "ASTM" label on the inside of the helmet. Most bicycle helmets are only made to protect your child from bicycle injuries and are not designed to protect your child while they are rollerblading or skateboarding.

How do I know what size helmet to get?
Take your children to a bicycle shop to be fit or measure the distance around their head just above the eyebrows. Take this measurement to the person who is providing the helmets to get the correct size.

How to Fit Your Child's Helmet
Even if the helmet is the correct size, it must be adjusted to fit your child's head. Loose or incorrectly positioned helmets will not protect as well. The first time you fit the helmet it will take time to get everything adjusted. Be patient! Once the helmet fits properly, it will be comfortable to wear and will provide your child with the best possible protection.

Position the helmet correctly.
The helmet should be level when viewed from the front and the side. The front end of the helmet should be lined up just above the eyebrows to protect the forehead. Too often children wear their helmets tipped back. This is not safe.

Adjust the straps!
The straps should not be painfully tight, but the helmet should not be able to be easily pushed back and forth or from side to side. The buckle should be snug under the chin but you should be able to open your mouth.

Use the sizing pads!
The pads, which are provided with the helmet, should be placed inside the helmet so that it fits snugly and comfortably. Use the smallest pad that is necessary and try different locations inside the helmet. The pads can be moved simply by pulling them up or pressing them down. If you shake your head the helmet should stay in place.

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