Your best bet for equipping yourself properly is a reputable bike shop. The staff tends to be avid cyclists and they know their gear. Look at this as your opportunity to get some exercise and your child's chance to get some fresh air and a free ride. Take a Ride on the Wild Side. If you really want to get away from the traffic, try mountain bikes.
Mountain bikes have truly intergenerational appeal.
There are challenges at every step of the way. First things first. Second, even if you plan to stay on bike paths, you'll need to teach your kids some rules about traffic and intersections. Everyone crosses together. A bike ride can take you a surprising distance, even with kids along.