should my son ride his bike to school he's in 5th grade?

Question

i live in pomona not a bad area some of pomona is pretty bad but my area is ok my son whos in 5th grade wants to ride his bike to school about 1/2 mile from the house. i said ok but his mom is having a problem with this what should i do

Answer 1

it depends upon the distance if its too far then dont allow him

Answer 2

I can understand both point of view's. On one hand it can be dangerous on the other your child should be old enough to be encouraged to be more responsible. The real question is; Can he handle it? Do you and his mom think he is mature enough to make the ride there and back with no playing around? Can he follow simple rules for riding there and back, like what to do to cross the street and what to do if he is stopped by a stranger. Sit down with him and go over the rules and maybe start out by walking with him half way or have him ride along with other friends, it is always safer in numbers. but it all really depends on his maturity.

Answer 3

You and your wife need to be in a agreement on this one. Talk things over and see if her concerns can be addressed. It can be a scary world out there and a lot depends on how your child handles things. Is he aware that there are people that want to hurt children, etc.? Does he know what to do if there is a problem? What is the route like: lots of traffic? major intersections? lots of houses and people along the way? If you talk it over and still can't agree, then he can't ride the bike. Good luck.

Answer 4

I live right behind a school so I walk my kids to school. Almost daily, I see two little girls riding their bikes to school and they're in the same grades as my daughters (kindergarten and 3rd grade). I'm very protective so I wouldn't allow my kids to go off by themselves but it all depends on the parent's feelings. Good luck!

Answer 5

2 much can happen in that long 1/2 mile. if he's the only one riding there its totally unsafe. listen to his mom and explain 2 him that if any thing where 2 happen 2 him ud have 2 kill urself (i know really dramatic but its getting ur point across). my brother wanted 2 ride his bike 2 but mom wouldnt let him. u should do the same. he'll get over it trust me :-)

Answer 6

It all depends on your child...If he is a responsible trustworthy behaved child, it may be an option. You would have to ensure he is aware of the route, all crosses, how to watch lights. You would have to MAKE IT CLEAR not to stray and NEVER EVER talk with anyone he doesn't know personally....Are there crossing guards? Will he wear his helmet? It is not a cut and dry situation... Has he ever traveled on his own an equal distance, walking or ride?

Answer 7

I wouldn't let my child. Sorry! Maybe in 6th or 7th grade. But then again, there are some kids who walk and ride bike to and from my daughter's school. She is in an elementary school, K-3rd grade.

Answer 8

I would refrain from allowing your son to do so. Even when he is high school he is secceptable to being abducted. Your area is centrally located to several freeways and such, which means the possibility of something happening to your son is greater.

Just to be on the safe side, wait another year or so. It won't be the end of the world if his parents drive him to school.

Answer 9

Not these days, no way. It is just not worth the risk. They dont need to be independant yet in that way, its just to scarey in the world we live in.***** Besides , there really arent to many decent neighborhoods left in Pomona, I would be a nervous wreck.

Answer 10

well you need to talk to the mom also. Mabey have a family meeting and see why she is against it. I think it is hard to answer this question, because she is only protecting her baby. Ya 5th grade is a good time to start letting him do things on his own, but is it really safe? I suggest a family meeting. Get everyones opinion. good luck

Answer 11

I see no reason he shouldn't ride his bike to school if other kids in the area do so. It's good exercise.