A smart pedestrian makes a smart cyclist. If we can train a young walker to stop at the edge, look left, right, left, then it will be easier to train that young cyclistto do the same. In grades 3-5 we train young cyclists in an increasingly complex set of traffic skills. We encourage participation in BMX racing as well as road or mountain bike events if they are available in the area. That preparation should last them through middle school, help get them involved in the local community, and help establish a background of knowledge that will serve them well as advocates throughout their lives.
High school is a tough nut to crack as most kids just want to get their hands on the wheel of a car.
But with the background they have had in the fundamental traffic skills, they'll be better motorists and watch out for cyclists and pedestrians. If they are so inclined in high school, we will continue to encourage their involvement in cycling sports and, for a select few, we will start bringing them in as assistant instructors to work with younger children. By college, they're adults and should be treated that way. That's it in a nutshell. I've got the support of my supervisors and nothing but opportunity.