The Young Cyclist's Companion
What’s inside...
This book provides a comprehensive guide for young aspiring bike riders, covering everything from choosing their first bike to mastering advanced cycling techniques such as wheelies and bunny hops. It also includes tips for riding in a group. With cycling trends reaching new heights post-pandemic, this book serves as an inspirational resource for young people to experience the freedom and joy of cycling. The guide also includes basic maintenance tips, cycling techniques, facts and trivia about famous cyclists, and unusual cycling records. It is aimed at young people who are already proficient cyclists and are keen to learn more about the sport. The book combines informative text with a plethora of facts and trivia to keep the reader engaged and motivated.
Age
8-14
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think is the most exciting part about learning to ride a bicycle?
How do you feel the tips in the book can help you become a better cyclist?
Can you describe a challenge the characters faced in the book? How did they overcome it?
What safety rules from the book do you think are the most important when riding a bike?
If you could go on a cycling adventure like the characters, where would you like to explore?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause at different sections of the book to discuss how certain cycling tips can be applied in real-life situations when your child rides a bike.
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences with biking to the stories and lessons in the book.
After reading, consider planning a family biking outing to put into practice some of the safety tips and skills learned from the book.
Create a list of safety gear mentioned in the book and together, check if your child's biking gear meets the safety standards discussed in the book.
Discuss the characters' problem-solving strategies in the book and ask your child how they might handle similar situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces numerous challenges in mastering cycling, but he continues to practice and improve, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to persist in learning new skills or overcoming difficulties in their daily activities, mirroring the protagonist's determination.
Example Lesson: The value of safety and preparedness
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of wearing helmets, checking bike equipment, and being aware of surroundings is emphasized.
Real-World Application: This can instill a sense of responsibility in children to always wear safety gear and be prepared, whether they are cycling or engaging in other activities.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The protagonist learns to work with peers during group rides and competitions, showcasing how teamwork leads to greater success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in collaborative settings like school projects or team sports, understanding the strength found in working together.
Example Lesson: Respect for the environment
Explanation: Cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transport is highlighted, teaching the protagonist about the benefits of reducing carbon footprints.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to choose cycling or walking for short trips as a way to care for the environment in their everyday routines.
Example Lesson: Goal-setting and achieving
Explanation: The young cyclist sets goals to participate in races and works hard to achieve them, learning to set realistic targets and strive toward them.
Real-World Application: This lesson reinforces the importance of setting personal goals in educational pursuits or other interests, and diligently working to achieve them.