Let’s help kids bike to school every day – safely!

Be active for bike to school week.

• Bike to school week 23rd September 2019

There was a time when most children either walked to school, or cycled. Nowadays many young people are not getting the exercise they need to develop healthy, strong bodies. Teenagers who bike to school benefit from the routine of regular exercise built into their day.

Why is it a good idea to bike to school?

• It’s great exercise. The NHS recommends that children between 5 and 16 should get one hour of exercise every day.
• The environment benefits too!

As dental professionals we’re especially interested in the health benefits of cycling to school. We believe that if young people learn the importance of taking care of their bodies, they also take care of their teeth.

Over the years, the percentage of children going to school by car, or taking a bus, has increased. The main reason parents cite for preferring a car or bus is safety. Parents, quite rightly, are concerned that using a bike on the road can be dangerous. So it’s important to make sure children are safe if they are cycling.

Tips kids need to know to keep safe on the roads:

• Check the bike is in good working order.
• Know the highway code for cyclists.
• Make sure lights and reflectors are clean.
• Use a helmet that meets safety standards.
• Wear reflective and high vis gear.
• Plan a safe route.
• Know danger spots.
• Always pay attention to other road users.
• Make sure bags are balanced.
• Wear clothes that won’t get caught in wheels.
• Never use headphones, listen to music or talk on your mobile.

Keeping teeth safe as they bike to school:

Already have a mouth guard? If so, it’s a great idea to wear it cycling too.

Using a bike off-road for tricks or speed? Then it’s definitely worth thinking about getting protection for your teeth. The best option is made-to-measure by a dentist so it fits snuggly on your teeth and won’t fall out.

Bike to school for a healthy body and an active mind!

Further reading:

• Do you need a night shield?
• Knocked out tooth? What do I do?
• Use a gum shield.

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