Riding by herself

[Trek420]

I remember mom and dad taking me on the route and pointing out the "safe houses" where I could go if I got scared. Don't remember what the program was called, but designated safe houses had a child sticker on the front window so kids could know they could go there... We rode the route a few times.

Good idea!

Even if there is not a specific program know your neighbors, a friendly store is good. Know the route, know what all the options are at every point.

Waaaay long ago, about '72 or so my parents finally let me ride into town to see my best friend. It was about 4 hilly and then remote miles.

On the way back I was obviously being followed. I remember like it was yesterday, a blue VW slowed to pass me, a few minutes later he came back the other direction, slowed to pass me again etc. I was already nervous and then he tossed a pamphlet out his window in front of me. It was porn.

We knew most of our neighbors, I immediately turned into the first driveway, told an adult that I needed to call my folks and the cops.

And of course I'm still riding and I continued to ride. It's a shame we have to even think about all this but you can't be too safe. It would be great if there were kids/parents who can ride together like a bike bus More fun too.

But applause for all the parents here encouraging kids to ride, what a wonderful gift.