How can my child ride his kickboard scooter safely?

How can my child ride his kickboard scooter safely?

Pat Hines (Traffic Safety Educator & Executive Director, SafeMoves) gives expert video advice on: How common are kickboard scooter injuries?; How do I choose a safe kickboard scooter for my child? and more...

Riding a kickboard scooter takes a lot of skills. It's like riding a skateboard or <a href="http://www.videojug.com/interview/roller-skating-and-inline-skating">rollerskating</a>; it's no different. So the same rules apply--watch out for cars; know the area in which you're going to ride; get to know the vehicle codes, because a lot of cities and communities have certain laws that regulate scooter riding. In a lot of states you have to wear a helmet; it's the law. Also, when you're riding your kickboard scooter make sure your child has the skills. Watch your child ride to see if they can stop properly, if they can turn properly, or they have the balance that they need to stay on the scooter. You need to supervise your child at all times when riding a scooter. As they get older and you feel more comfortable that they really understand the traffic laws, and are living in a community where scooter riding is a safe activity, then you can let them start riding by themselves. But supervise them, if you can, at all times.