1Yr Old Refuses to Wear Helmet for Bike Rides

Hi L.,
My son refuses to let us put his diaper on! It is amazing how fast and strong little guys can be! The only thing that has worked for us so diaper changing time doesn't become a battle is to distract him with a special song we only sing at that time. We sing the song with special head movements and he gets distracted enough (and even smiles) during changes so they can be quick and tear free. At 1 year I don't think they really understand cause and effect yet so your best tool is distraction. Good luck - sounds like fun!

Our son was the same way just before he turned one. What we did was we had him wear it any time, not just on the bike. In the house playing with his toys, helping mommy, etc. . . He did cry at first, but now at the age of 2, he puts in on by himself when we go for rides. Good luck!

L.,
Unfortunately, I have no suggestions for you, but when this popped up and I read it, I was SO happy that you are waiting until he will wear it before you take him out! Great job! I have a friend who sponsors a brain injury camp for children and a lot of the kids have had accidents that changed their lives forever. Blessings, J.

Hi L.,
Maybe you could try putting your son in the trailer and then putting the helmet on. If he understands he is going to go somewhere maybe he'll have an easier time dealing with the fact that he has to wear his helmet.

If that doesn't work try putting it on him, (he shouldn't be able to get it off) sticking him in the trailer and going up and down your street a few times. He may cry at first but maybe once he realizes he gets to go somewhere he'll accept it easier.

I always gave my daughters a favorite toy and a sippy cup. That may help take the attention off the helmet.

Just some ideas (I don't really know!) Good luck and have fun.

Have dad ask if he wants to go for a ride, if he does, tell dad to ask him to put on his helmet while dad puts his on. If he refuses, have dad ride off with out him. Maybe down the street or around the corner and back. If he still wants to go, explain that he cannot go without a helmet. Eventually he will decide it is better to wear the helmet.

You are the parent don't get into power struggles with him. Just say that is fine I guess you don't ride your bike. If he wants to go bad enough he will put it on. You have to be in control and show him his behavior doesn't bother you. Let him know it's too bad because you all wanted to go, but that it is a rule/law and he has to wear it.

If you don't have control over him now in a calm way, it may get worse in the teen years. My daughter was very strong willed like that and continues to be so, and now is having issues, and I know it's because we gave her too much control when she was younger.

Take care and God Bless You,
K.

Hi L., Easy, no helmet, no ride. Works wonders! Thanks for keeping him safe, many parents don't think it necessary and don't realize the brain damage kids can get by not having on their helmets...good luck!