How to Chat With Your Children About Helmets

from Shine Newsletter, Winter 2006

Injuries — including those caused by bicycle and snowboarding accidents — are the leading cause of death for children in Colorado ,” says Theresa Rapstine, director of the Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Institute at The Children’s Hospital. “That’s why it’s important for parents to talk to their kids about wearing helmets.”

Here are a few ways Rapstine recommends tackling this heady subject:

  • Start early. As soon as your child hops on a tricycle or starts hitching a ride on your two-seater, make sure he or she always wears a helmet.
  • Set the example.  Be a role model for your kids by wearing a helmet whenever you go biking or snowboarding.
  • Show some love . Reward your children for wearing helmets with stickers or other small treats.
  • Send a strong message. Help your children understand how important their heads are, and explain that if something happens to their heads they might not be able to do the things they love.

Visit SafeKids  to learn more about keeping your child safe from preventable injuries. Also read “Helmets Save Lives.”

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