Teaching Helmet Safety

Dr. Francine Jacobs, M.D. is with the Just Kids Pediatric and Adolescent Clinic and shares some ways to teach kids some summer safety skills.


For the first 10 people who call the Just Kids Clinic AND make an appointment for their child’s annual “well-check”, we will give a free bike helmet. This is for new patients only.

For 2,3,4,5 and 6 year olds, it is important for parents to teach healthy habits, like wearing a helmet. Why? Unfortunately in our state, adults are seen riding bikes and motorcycles without a helmet because we do not have a mandatory helmet law in Utah.” This sends mixed messages to kids, so it’s important for kids to learn healthy behaviors early, so that they will wear a helmet always.

BICYCLE SAFETY

Source: http://www.aap.org/family/bicycle.htm

Source: www.aap.org/family/tbikmyth.htm

• Do not push your child to ride a 2-wheeled bike until he or she is ready, at about age 5 or 6. Consider the child’s coordination and desire to learn to ride. Stick with coaster (foot) brakes until your child is older and more experienced for hand brakes.

• Take your child with you when you shop for the bike, so that he or she can try it out. The value of a properly fitting bike far outweighs the value of surprising your child with a new one. For more information on finding the proper fit, go to http://www.aap.org/family/bicycle.htm#choosing

• Buy a bike that is the right size, not one your child has to “grow into.” Oversized bikes are especially dangerous.

• Your child needs to wear a helmet on every bike ride, no matter how short or how close to home. Many accidents happen in driveways, on sidewalks, and on bike paths, not just on streets. Children learn best by observing you. Set the example: Whenever you ride, put on your helmet.

• When purchasing a helmet, look for a label or sticker that says the helmet meets the CPSC safety standard.

• A helmet protects your child from serious injury, and should always be worn. And remember, wearing a helmet at all times helps children develop the helmet habit.

• A helmet should be worn so that it is level on the head, not tipped forwards or backwards. The strap should be securely fastened, and you should not be able to move the helmet in any direction. If needed, the helmet’s sizing pads can help improve the fit.

SKATEBOARD, SCOOTER, IN-LINE SKATING AND HEELYS SAFETY

Source: http://www.aap.org/advocacy/archives/marskate.htm

Children should never ride skateboards or scooters in or near traffic.

• All skateboarders and scooter-riders should wear a helmet and other protective gear; wrist guards are particularly important.

• Communities should continue to develop skateboard parks, which are more likely to be monitored for safety than ramps and jumps constructed by children at home.

• While in-line skating or wearing Heelys, be sure to wear appropriate protective equipment and only skate on designated paths or rinks and not on the street.

The Just Kids Pediatric & Adolescent Clinic is a member of Physician Group of Utah. When it comes to pediatric and adolescent care, Just Kids Pediatric & Adolescent Clinic specializes in the following services:

• Prenatal consultation (free)

• Well child check-ups

• Routine & catch-up immunizations

• Sick visits (same day appointments available)

• Well adolescent care

• Pelvic exams/STD screenings

• Sports physicals

• Development/behavioral consultations

• Safety and injury prevention

• Vision and hearing screenings

• Dental screenings, including fluoride treatments

They also offer discounts for non-insured patients.


For more information, or to contact The Just Kids Pediatric & Adolescent Clinic, you can call 801-964-3492

4052 West Pioneer Parkway, Suite 205

West Valley City, UT 84120

www.justkidsclinic.com

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