Experts advise. How to behave when a child falls on a bike?

Crashes are an inherent part of cycling, especially in the beginning. Every cyclist - whether novice or experienced - occasionally loses balance or makes a mistake. Although at first glance a crash may seem like a negative experience, it is through these small mishaps that children learn valuable life lessons. They learn to overcome obstacles, manage pain and disappointment, but they also realize that they can get back up, dust themselves off, and move on. Through falls, children discover their strength and courage. When they get back in the saddle again after their first tumble, they build their confidence and sense of determination.

It can be difficult for parents to watch their children struggle with falls and minor setbacks for the first time, but it is important to remember that these moments are also part of their growth and maturation. The bicycle is not only a toy for children, but also a means of learning about themselves and the limits of their own abilities. Parental support is important - whether it's encouragement after a fall, praise for effort or time spent riding together.

If a child falls, the most important thing is to remain calm. Remember that children are very sensitive to our reaction and if they see the look of horror or panic on your face, they may become even more frightened. So the first step is to try to keep your perspective, smile encouragingly at your child and let them know that everything is fine. Most falls only end in a minor scratch or scare, so it's a good idea to reassure your child straight away that they can handle it. Calm, reassuring behaviour from parents can help ease the child's initial shock more quickly.

Say something along the lines of "Nothing's wrong, you're fine. Falls like that are part of cycling!" This will give the child courage and help him to calm down.

After calming down, do a quick check to make sure everything is okay. Ask the child where he or she feels pain and look for any visible scrapes or bruises.

For minor abrasions, we recommend gently disinfecting the wound. If you do not have a first aid kit with disinfectant on hand, you can at least rinse the wound with water (e.g. from a bottle), this will remove dirt and cool the wound, which will relieve the pain.

If the child feels your support, he or she will feel safer. Always reassure him that falling is a normal part of learning and that it happens to every cyclist from time to time. This will give him a calmer approach to overcoming obstacles and teach him that a fall is not a disaster.

Although most falls on a bike are minor and result in only scrapes, there are situations where a visit to the doctor is appropriate. A preventive check-up with a specialist can help detect potential complications early on that may not be apparent at first glance, while giving your child and you the reassurance that everything is fine. Here are situations when you should be alert and consider seeking medical attention:

1. Heavy or persistent bleeding.

2. Pain that escalates.

3. Limited mobility or reluctance to move.

4. Changes in behavior and nausea.

"Ultimately, cycling is a great school of life. It teaches children balance, agility, endurance and, most importantly, that even if we sometimes fall, we can always get up and keep going. So, let every fall be just another step towards a successful ride and a childhood full of movement and adventure!" says Hanka Topolova from the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport of Charles University.