Pedal power for parents

Getting out and about on a bike has traditionally been one of the first ways in which children begin to assert their independence. But with the roads seemingly getting busier every year, it’s no surprise that parents are increasingly anxious about letting their children cycle around today’s streets. And it’s not just the kids – parents themselves often don’t feel as confident on two wheels as they did when they were younger.  

Help is at hand in the shape of special parent and toddler cycling confidence-building sessions at Moors Valley Country Park, near Ringwood. The one-hour sessions are aimed at parents using a child seat, trailer or tagalong and are a mixture of informal instruction and enjoyment. Although the cycling is all off-road, it’s a great way for grown-ups to get back in the saddle and introduce their young ones to the joys of two-wheeled travel.

Each Tots, Trailers and Tagalong session costs just £2 (children are free) – and you don’t even need your own bike as everything you need can be hired for the day. Bike, trailer and tagalong hire are all £2 each while a child seat is only £1. And as a bonus, car parking at Moors Valley is free.

Of course it is not all about youngsters. There are some great cycling opportunities for older children at the Park as well, including Adventure Cycling and bikeability sessions.  So if you’re looking for a way to enjoy the forest, build confidence on two wheels and encourage your kids to become safe cyclists, get along to Moors Valley.

The next Tots, Trailers and Tagalong session is on 1 April and on selected dates in May, July and September. You can get more details from Karl Prince, Healthy Lifestyle Range,at Moors Valley on 01425 470721.  Please mention you saw this on the mags4dorset website.