Kids and wheeled ride-on toys go together like ice cream and summer days. But to complete the recipe and make a safe combination, you need to add a helmet to the wheeled toy. No matter the child’s age, when he gets on a bicycle, tricycle, or other outdoor riding toy that could tip over, his head must be protected.
Head injuries can be devastating to children. A badly scraped knee or broken arm, even if it hurts, will usually heal with no long-term consequences. Not so a head injury, which can lead to devastating lifelong problems or even death.
Start your child out on day one with a helmet and they will be accepted as part of the riding experience. Wait until your child is older and you may encounter more resistance to using one.
For younger children, choose helmets specifically designed for bicycling. When your child is old enough to skateboard or rollerblade, she’ll need a bigger helmet anyway, and you can select a new one that’s useful for all of these sports.
Make sure any bicycle helmet you choose has a label stating that it meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
The helmets come in soft and hard shell configurations. As long as the item you select meets CPSC standards, both will offer good protection. Hard hats are tougher on the outside but can be heavy and hot in the summer. Although they may cost a bit more, look for several vents as this will help reduce heat buildup. Many helmets are adjustable, so they can be expanded as the child grows, which helps with the cost.
Look for a brightly colored helmet so that both you and motorists can better see your child. Even if your child is not allowed outside, you can never count on a child being predictable or resisting temptation. If other children are playing and riding in the street, your child may break the rules. She wants him or her to be as visible as possible.
Letting your child choose the helmet will usually make them more willing to use it regularly. When they are younger, kids often consider their helmets “cool.” You’ll probably encounter more resistance to wearing one from an older child, especially if he or she hasn’t enforced helmet rules from day one.
Bicycle helmets are not especially expensive, especially when you compare the cost of a helmet to the cost of an emergency room visit. You can find them at bike shops, toy stores, and discount stores starting around $30 for a quality helmet. Be sure to fit the helmet on your child before you buy it. Be careful when buying or borrowing used helmets. You won’t know the history, and if these items have been in an accident, they may have invisible damage.
If your child has a fall that impacts their head, be sure to thoroughly inspect their helmet before sending it back. A strong impact can damage the foam, making it less protective. Look for skid marks or cracks in the outer shell. If you see signs of impact damage, be sure to get a replacement as soon as possible.
Warning: Helmets can get caught on playground equipment. Make sure your kids take off their headgear before running to play if they’ve been biking to the park.
