Hats Off To Helmets- Ways To Talk With Your Child About Head Injuries

Wearing a properly-fitted helmet every time your child rides their bicycle, scooter, skateboard, or other vehicle is one of the most important ways to prevent head injuries and keep play safe and fun. Many children do not want to wear helmets when they ride for a variety of reasons (i.e. messing up their hair, too hot outside, uncomfortable). Check out these tips and talk with your child about the importance of wearing a helmet every time they ride!

Make helmets a habit: As soon as your child begins to ride their bike, scooter, skateboard or other vehicle, make wearing a helmet a priority. Do not let children ride unless they are wearing a helmet. Consistency is key- don’t allow them to go without a helmet on occasion.

Make sure the helmet your child is wearing fits properly: A properly-fitting helmet should cover the top of your child’s forehead and fit square on their head. Make sure buckles and straps are correctly tightened so that it does not move around of the head, slide over the eyes, or tip back exposing the forehead. The helmet should fit snug around the head and chin. One of the best ways to ensure children wear their helmets is by allowing them to pick out a safe helmet in which they like the design or color.

Talk to your child about the seriousness of protecting their heads: Every year children die from Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) from a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal functions of the brain. Talk with your child about how much you love them and want to protect them by addressing the severity of not wearing a helmet.

Wear a helmet yourself: Parents and guardians are some of the most influential people in our children’s lives. They learn best by observing your behavior and seeing you wearing a helmet yourself.

 

SOURCE

SOURCE