Session 4 – Safely Cycling

Ride safely anywhere—4 final steps.

Welcome to Session 4! Your child has made incredible strides in their biking journey, and now it’s time to prepare them to ride safely in various environments. In this session, we’ll review their progress, introduce essential hand turn signals, and ensure they’re ready to take on new challenges—whether it’s the driveway, a bike path, or a quiet street. Safety remains the priority, so ensure your child wears a helmet and practices in a secure area.

📋 Phase 4 Training Checklist: Want a handy printable reference for your training session? We've created a comprehensive Phase 1 checklist that you can download and bring outside with you. This PDF includes all the key drills, safety reminders, and milestone markers in an easy-to-follow format. Perfect for checking off progress as you go! [Download Phase 4 Checklist PDF]

Let’s get started with the four final steps to safe cycling!

Phase 4A – Overview and Skills Development Review

Review progress—ready for roads.

Before moving forward, let’s celebrate your child’s achievements and confirm they’re prepared for the next stage. Here’s a quick recap of the key skills they’ve developed:

  • Balance: Can they coast smoothly without their feet touching the ground?
  • Maneuvering: Are they making turns and U-turns with ease?
  • Pedaling: Do they pedal steadily while staying balanced?
  • Braking: Can they stop safely using the brakes?
If they’re solid in these areas, they’re ready to advance! If not, take a little extra time to polish those skills—there’s no hurry, and a strong foundation is crucial for safe riding.

Final Readiness Check:

  • Can they ride straight for at least 20 feet?
  • Do they make smooth turns and stop when asked?
  • Are they excited and confident about biking?
If you’re nodding “yes,” proceed to the next phase. If not, revisit earlier sessions to build their skills. You’re doing a fantastic job guiding them!

 

Tip: Boost their enthusiasm with a small reward, like a sticker or a short family ride, to celebrate their hard work!

Phase 4B – Hand Turn Signals

Signal turns—stay visible.

With your child riding confidently, it’s time to teach them how to communicate their intentions to others. Hand turn signals are a vital safety tool, letting pedestrians, fellow riders, or drivers know what they plan to do. Here’s how to introduce the three basic signals:

  1. Left Turn:
    • Extend the left arm straight out to the side, level with the ground.

    • Practice: Have your child ride slowly, signal a left turn, and then make the turn.
  1. Right Turn:
    • Extend the left arm out and bend it upward at the elbow, forming an “L” shape.

    • Alternative: In some areas, extend the right arm straight out—use what’s standard locally.

    • Practice: Signal a right turn, then complete the turn.

  1. Stop:
    • Extend the left arm out and bend it downward at the elbow, creating an upside-down “L.”

    • Practice: Have them ride toward you, signal to stop, and brake gently.

Teaching Tips:
  • Begin with the signals off the bike, standing still, until they’re comfortable.
  • Move to slow riding in a safe, open space.
  • Make it fun: call out “left,” “right,” or “stop,” and have them signal and act it out!

Safety Reminder: Teach them to look around before signaling or turning and to signal early so others notice. Keep the practice upbeat and encouraging—repetition builds mastery!