Our little ones are bundles of energy, always on the go – on bikes, scooters, skateboards, you name it! While these activities are fantastic for their health and development, safety is absolutely paramount. That’s where a properly fitted helmet comes in – it’s their essential piece of protective gear.
But with so many helmets on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Fear not, we’ve got you covered! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to find the perfect helmet for your child, ensuring they’re safe and comfortable on their adventures.
Choosing the Right Helmet:
- Safety First: Look for a helmet that complies with the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) safety standard. This guarantees it offers the necessary protection in case of a fall.
- The Perfect Fit: A helmet’s effectiveness hinges on a snug fit. Measure your child’s head just above the eyebrows and consult the manufacturer’s size chart. Helmets often have adjustable straps and padding for a fine-tuned fit.
- Comfort is Key: A comfy helmet encourages your child to wear it consistently. Look for helmets with good ventilation and a lightweight design.
- Visor Power: A built-in visor shields their eyes from the sun and debris, making their ride more enjoyable.
- Cool Factor: Let your child choose a helmet with a design they love. This increases the chances of them wearing it with pride!
Ensuring a Proper Fit:
- The Two-Finger Test: With the helmet on, place two fingers between the chin strap and your child’s chin. If it fits snugly but allows for two fingers, it’s ideal.
- The Shake Test: Gently shake your child’s head while they hold the helmet still. There should be minimal movement – the helmet should stay securely in place.
- The Eyebrow Test: The helmet should sit comfortably on their head, with the lower rim resting just above the eyebrows without obstructing their vision.
The Tiny Tag Advantage:
For added peace of mind, consider adding a tinytag sticker to a helmet (for the whole family). This innovative device allows you to store vital medical information like allergies or emergency contacts. In case of an accident, first responders can access this critical information quickly. tinytags stickers can be attached to bikes, scooters etc if they are left at the park or school, simply reunite with their owner by scanning the QR code. For a lightweight solution tinytags wristbands or tags can be worn by the rider, if an accident does happen then contact information is readily on hand for a first responder.
Additional Resources:
- The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA): offers valuable information on choosing and fitting helmets for children.
- The UK Government’s Cycling Gear Guide: provides a helpful overview of helmet regulations in the UK.
Making Safety a Habit:
By choosing the right helmet and ensuring a proper fit, you’re giving your child the best protection possible. Remember, lead by example – wear your own helmet when cycling or scooting with your little one.
Happy (and Safe) Rolling!
Written by Katie Green, Founder, tinytags Ltd