How to Make Sure Your Bicycle Helmet Fits

Helmets come in all kinds of different sizes and you need to fit them, just like hats. Hat sizes can be different depending on the manufacturer. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute (BHSI) has the most complete list of helmet sizes according to the manufacturers.

To fit a helmet you need to measure your head to find out your approximate size. Make sure you try the helmet on to make sure it fits snugly. When it is sitting on top of your head make sure it does not rock from side to side. There are sizing pads inside new models; you can use them to make sure the helmet is tucked securely on your head. Some helmets also have something called a universal sizing ring inside that can help fit the helmet on the head.

Make sure the helmet sits level on your head and low on the forehead which means that it is sitting one or two finger widths above your eyebrows.

You can center the left buckle under the chin by pulling it from the back of the helmet to lengthen or shorten the chin straps. You can do this most precisely when the helmet is off the head. There are sliders on both straps; make sure you tighten them so the fit is quite snug. A good fit is attained when you can fit no more than one or two fingers under the strap.

To find out if the helmet is fitting right give a big yawn. While you are doing this the helmet should pull down on the head. If it is not then you have to go back and tighten the chin strap even more.

If your helmet rocks back and forth on the top of your head then you might want to shorten the front strap by moving the slider forward. To prevent the buckle on the band from slipping be sure to roll it as close as you can to the band.

Helmets can be damaged if you drop them. Be sure to replace any helmet that has been damaged.

If you are buying for a kid do not buy a helmet that will be “grown into.” The helmet must fit like it is.

The helmet should fit now. Buy a helmet that fits your head now, not a helmet to “grow into.” Replace any helmet that has been outgrown immediately so your child or you are never riding without one.
Remember … a helmet will only be of use to you if it actually fits your head.

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TV Inspired Ideas for Tween and Teen Parties

Today's tweenies and teens are a little harder to entertain these days. They do not get that impressed that easily and will turn up their noses that does not have a bit of pop-culture to it.

One format for a party that is quite easy to follow is the show Minute to Win It. This show consists of challenging games that you can create from every day household items that are in your pantry or garage. You can actually get over 100 games for free on the Minute to Win It website. You can print out the instructions for each challenge, give the kids the materials and then put them through playing the game just like they do on this popular show.

Yet another approach is to mimic the shows about cooking challenges that are on the air like Cupcake Wars, Chopped and Top Chef. This is complex to prepare becaue you need a lot of utensils and food on hand but the completion will be worth it. You consider the skill level suitable for the age of your guests and then try to create the appropriate food challenges.

For instance, when it comes to Cupcake Wars, you can have your kids compete for the best-decorated cupcake. All that takes is a table full of decorations and icing and sets of pre-made cupcakes. You can also do a similar party that has to do with decorating sundaes. All you need is whipped cream, nuts, cherries, bananas and the rest of the fixings. The best thing about these ideas for food challenges is that you do not have to turn on the stove; no child risks burning her!

With older children the oven or stove can come into play. A really great idea is to challenge kids to design the very best signature pizza pie. Simply lay out the ingredients and have the kids figure out the best flavor combinations.

You can also mimic a reality show like Survivor. You set up simple challenges and then have the kids divided into teams. You do not have to have them eat insects but you can have them eat a weirder food like an oyster. Other challenges could include jumping through hoops, breaking a piñata and agility course work.

Of course always mention that there is going to be a challenge and food on your party invitations. As a safety measure I also always ask if any child visiting is going to have issues with nut allergies, strawberry allergies or any other kind of allergy just to be on the safe side.

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