Gear Up for National Bike-to-School Day

The season of flip flops, sandy toes, and outdoor BBQs is quickly approaching. And with the warmer weather comes the opportunity to get outside with the kiddos to soak up some sunshine and new memories. But before the final school bell of the year rings, mark your calendars: Friday, May 20, 2022, is National Bike-to-School Day!

There’s no better time like the present to crank up the fun, especially with May being National Bike Month. And before you think May 20 is only for the kiddos, think again. It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace adventure and healthy habits with your little Rider together because May 20 is also National Bike-to-Work Day!

Explore how you can swap your seatbelts for helmets and create a joyful experience the whole family can enjoy.

Why choose to ride?

Exercise is essential for young bodies and minds. But let’s face it: exercise doesn’t typically make the cut when it comes to a kid’s list of priorities. BIking to school encourages physical activity in a way that feels more like playtime instead of a chore.

Riding through the neighborhood will help your kiddo expel all that youthful energy from their system while building confidence, social skills, and emotional wellbeing. A more physically active lifestyle promotes better sleep, which is vital for growing bodies. And on National Bike-to-School Day, kiddos can experience their bike as more than just a tool for exercise: it’s a great way to get from here to there!

So, when National Bike-to-School Day rolls around, leave the car keys at home, gear up, and grab your bikes.

You can pedal your way to the classroom with the youngest Riders, making sure they stay safe while they experience the joy and freedom biking provides. Plus, fresh air and some vitamin D for you? That’s a win-win.

For older kids, you may encourage them to ride with their friends by their side. They can build connections and that sense of camaraderie without their fingers glued to their smartphones. Less screen time and more wheel time? Yes, please!

When you establish healthy habits early and teach your little Rider about the importance of eco-friendly practices, biking will become a natural part of their everyday lives and help shape a brighter tomorrow.

Get ready to ride: tips to ensure the day runs smoothly

1. Make sure bikes are safe and working properly

As a parent, ensuring the kiddos are safe and cared for is the number one priority. Performing routine maintenance on your bikes and checking to confirm they’re in working order prior to bike-to-school day is crucial.

First, you’ll want to make sure the screws and quick-release skewers are tightly secured. Then, assess the front and rear brakes. Are they working correctly and delivering enough stopping power? Lastly, check the wheels. Are they deflated and need a little air or pumped up and ready to roll? It’s a good practice to have your little Rider join you during these safety checks. This way, they’ll get in the habit of maintaining their bike and recognizing when something isn’t working properly.

2. Map out the route to school

Before you hit the road, plan your route to avoid any unnecessary hiccups. Because the truth is, the shortest route isn’t always the safest. For instance, a steep hill or a busy road may present too many obstacles.

Google Maps biking directions and Strava heatmaps are great resources for determining better cycling routes. As a general rule of thumb, the quieter route — minimal traffic and safe crosswalks — is your best bet for a wheelie fun trip to school.

And let’s not forget the whole getting-to-school-on-time thing because too many challenges could make them late for class.

3. Do a trial run

Practice makes perfect, right? A great way to prepare for a successful ride to school is to go for a trial run with little Rider. You can enjoy a little bonding and adventure time with your child while using the opportunity to point out key road signs and alleviate any pressure they may be feeling about the upcoming ride.

It’s also important to begin developing their skills early by teaching them about potential challenges they may face while cycling. From car doors opening to hidden exits, helping your kiddo understand traffic hazards and ways to navigate the road will help instill a sense of confidence and eliminate any fears they may have. Bike safety is a lesson that goes far beyond National Bike-to-School Day!

4. Gear up for the ride

A seamless experience starts with having the right gear. First and foremost, your little Rider needs a helmet. Many states require kids to wear helmets, but it’s imperative to protect your little one from any potential harm or injury, even if yours doesn't. Lastly, don’t forget the knee pads and elbow pads!  

Similarly, if your child participates in after-school activities, you may want to consider lights and reflective gear to keep them highly visible even after the sun sets. Clothing, like our FLARE Reflective Vest, can keep your little one cozy while providing an added layer of protection against passing cars, and bike lights and reflective stickers are another effective way to optimize your child’s safety in low-light conditions.

Even when the sun is beaming brightly, there are extra precautions you can take, like adding a bell, that your little Rider can use to signal their presence and draw attention to themselves when necessary.

Other accessories and supplies you may need for bike-to-school day include a bike lock and water bottle.

Pedal, laugh, play, repeat

There’s no shortage of ways to inject a dose of fun into this year’s upcoming National Bike-to-School Day. From encouraging neighborhood friends and families to join to rewarding your little Rider with a tasty treat, this is an excellent opportunity to make biking to school a regular ritual for your child.

For more tips on how to plan your route to school, check out our post: Commuting by Bike with Kids 101.

And don’t forget to share your bike-to-school photos with us by tagging @woombikesusa or #woombikesusa on Instagram!