Learn to Ride: Beginner Bike Class for Kids at BCT's Northern Terminus

Get ready for a fun and empowering experience this summer! Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, is thrilled to partner with the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) to offer a beginner "How to Ride a Bike" class for kids.

Join Sarah Dolan, AMC's Bay Circuit Trail Outreach Assistant, for a focused two-hour session designed to build confidence and essential cycling skills. With four years of experience leading these classes, Sarah is passionate about helping children discover the joy of riding independently.

What Your Child Will Learn

The core of this class is developing balance, the foundation for confident cycling. Through engaging, repetitive activities and fun games, the curriculum will progressively cover:

• Helmet Safety: Understanding the importance of proper helmet fit and use.
• Road Safety Basics: Introducing fundamental awareness for safe riding.
• Bike Entry/Exit: Learning how to safely get on and off a bike.
• Walking with a Bike: Mastering control while guiding the bike.
• Stopping Techniques: How to safely bring the bike to a halt.
• Coasting: Developing the feel of gliding on two wheels.
• Balance Activities: A series of increasingly challenging exercises to improve bike balance and build confidence.

Important Notes for Parents/Guardians

• Parent/Guardian Presence is Required: A parent or guardian must stay with their child for the entire duration of the class. Shaded seating will be available for your comfort.
• Breaks: We'll take frequent breaks for stretching, water, and snacks.
• Siblings: While siblings are welcome to observe, they cannot participate in the class itself.
• Required Gear:
  • Helmet: Participants must bring a helmet that fits properly.
  • Bike: Please bring a bike that's in good working order.
  • Pedals Off: For the initial balance work, please arrive with the pedals already removed from your child's bike. We'll guide you on how to reattach them at the end of the class. Please reach out if you need advice or assistance with removing the pedals prior to class!

Class Logistics

• Schedule: This is a one-time, two-hour class, designed to provide a strong foundation for beginner riders. Specific dates will be announced soon, with classes planned throughout the summer until the end of August, and a possibility of a September class.
• Ages: The class is typically geared for children ages 5-12, with a maximum of 3 kids per class. We're open to younger or older children if they're true beginners and meet the class focus.
• Location: The class will take place in the further back parking lot at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor's Center, located at 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport, MA 01950-4315. This area will be coned off for safety. The refuge serves as the northern terminus of the Bay Circuit Trail (BCT).
• Parking: You can park in the front lot, which will remain open to other refuge visitors.
• Amenities: Restrooms and water are available on-site at the Visitor's Center.
• Our Goal: While we can't guarantee your child will be riding independently within the two-hour class, our aim is to ensure significant progress and increased confidence in their cycling abilities!

Learn more here

Register Here