Kids and All Terrain Vehicles

Do kids really need to ride an ATV?  The kid in question obviously has to be old enough to be responsible enough to drive the thing.  No matter who is driving it an all terrain vehicle is ultimately defined as heavy machinery. To operate heavy machinery your kid must have great reflexes, good eyesight, good coordination and a rudimental understanding of the laws of gravity and mechanics.

A kid that does not understand gravity is not a good candidate to drive an ATV. Neither is a kid that has poor judgment, poor eyesight or is on some kind of medication that might affect coordination or judgment. For instance, it is probably not a good idea for a kid on Ritalin for ADD to be riding an ATV. 

If you are going to let your kid drive an ATV make sure that he or she takes a safety class first and wears protective gear such as helmets an goggles. Also be sure that they are fully clothed and not wearing shorts or short-sleeved shirts to help protect their legs. If you are not sure where to find safety programs for young ATV drivers then you can try phoning your local youth groups. In the United States it is very common for 4_H groups to offer programs in all terrain vehicle safety. These programs, which are also for adults by the way, cover such topics as proper gear, riding techniques and the rules of the road. If anything the idea that you must wear a helmet will be ingrained into your child's head by taking one of these courses.  Not wearing a helmet is not advised as all terrain vehicle accidents are responsible for all kinds of serious brain injuries that take place in the United States and Canada. 

If you are not sure where to turn in terms of educating your child when it comes to kids atv safety, try phoning your local chapter of 4H. They conduct workshops with both children and adults that cover such topics as proper gear, the rules of the road and riding techniques.

If your child is insistent on riding an ATV then try to buy one that is designed for an adolescent. It will be lighter and smaller and easier for your child to handle. You should also advise your child to ride solo as many ATVs are just not equipped to handle two people.  Of course, as in any situation, you should also warn your children never to pick up a stranger trying to hitch a ride on the ATV. 

To stay safe, kids who ride ATVs are also well advised to stay off paved roads and highways and operate the machine on trails designed for ATVs. However you should discourage your child from riding on the shoulder of the road or beside a ditch as there is danger the vehicle could turn over.

Parenting Tips
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Eat Your Meals Together!

The family that eats their meals together stays together!  This is why it is so important to have a routine when it comes to mealtime. Studies show that kids who regularly eat at home with their families have a healthier diet, are less likely to be fat, are less likely to isolate or be depressed and get better marks in school. They are better socialized and simply feel more understood, loved and bonded with their parents. 

However these meals together are not just about eating. They are also about communication. Family meal time is a time to talk. It should be a round table that is a safe place for kids to express their opinions. 

If you eat your meals together you are also teaching your kid to be civilized and disciplined. You are teaching them how to have a dinner conversation.  You are also instilling in them the importance of maintaining a daily routine.  You are also teaching them responsibility if you help them set the table. 

Are you having trouble getting your kids into the idea of eating a meal with you?This can be a problem if they are used to eating in front of the television. Try posting a menu on a magnetic white board or writing it on a chalkboard. You can send your older kids an email. Kids love it when you create a sense of excitement about a meal. 

Some kids also love it if there is a little pomp and circumstance to the meal. You can have them make a simple centerpiece for the table or light some candles. You can also serve older children beverages in wine glasses to make them feel important. The more your child feels that you are taking him or her seriously the more devoted he or she will be to you in general.  Even the tiniest kid who is being served milk in a plastic wineglass will feel important. 

Yet another way to convince your kids to bond and communicate with you over dinner is to make certain nights into a ritual. For instance in my house we have a Spaghetti Saturday ('pusgetti' as my youngest son calls it.)  Kids like the idea of routine and consistency. You should avoid letting your kids eat by themselves or with the family in front of the television.  For one thing this does not promote conversations. For another it promotes this kind of mindless eating and snacking in front of the television. This is a habit that could extend into your child's adult years and cause psychological problems. 

The way to start conversations with your kids is to keep things as light and fun as possible. Don't' pressure them to answer questions that you ask as that is all they do all day in school – answer questions. Telling jokes is a good idea as it helps loosen up the atmosphere. Basically be as charming as you normally would be at any adult dinner party and you will get great results because your child will feel so loved and respected!

Parenting Tips
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