Using Your Head

Every year, thousands of children are injured while riding their bicycles because of helmets that are not worn properly or at all. As part of its vision to “be a complete and supportive resource,” Children’s Hospital has collaborated with the Richmond Kiwanis Club since 1999 to educate children about the importance of wearing a properly-fitted helmet.

This year representatives from Children’s Hospital and the Richmond Kiwanis Club visited four City of Richmond schools as part of the annual Bike Safety Program in May. Nearly 175 second graders from Bellevue Elementary School, John B. Cary Elementary School, Maymont Elementary School and Westover Hills Elementary School participated in a 60-minute program that included viewing a safety video, learning about proper helmet use, completing a safety quiz, signing a pledge to always wear a helmet and receiving a new bike helmet individually fitted to each student’s head. The program covered the importance of helmet use on bicycles as well as skateboards, rollerblades and scooters.

“Our outreach programs are important because Children’s Hospital is dedicated to keeping children safe,” said Ashley Langford, Special Events Coordinator. “We want to be good stewards in the community and let our community know we care.”

As part of the annual program, the Kiwanis Club donated $4,000 for new helmets and helmet identification stickers as well as bike safety posters, which were mailed to schools prior to Bike Safety Month, and bike safety bookmarks, which were distributed to students during the program visits.

“Thank you for showing us the video about safety tips and helmets,” wrote one student in a note to Children’s Hospital after the program. “Your presentation taught me to always wear a helmet.”

“I love the helmet,” wrote another student. “My brain is safe.”

“My brother and I fell off our bikes,” wrote a third student. “Luckily, we were wearing our helmets.”

“Letters like that,” noted Ashley, “and the smile on each child’s face after receiving a helmet reinforce our commitment to this important community program. By collaborating with the Richmond Kiwanis Club, each year we are able to share important safety lessons and make a difference in hundreds of children’s lives.”

The information on this site is provided for informational and educational purposes only; it does not contain specific medical advice. If you have specific health questions or problems, consult a health care professional for personal medical advice.