The quintessential childhood milestone of learning how to ride a bike is moving from driveways and sidewalks and into PE classes, the Associated Press reported.
It’s part of All Kids Bike, a nonprofit program that has brought its learn-to-ride curriculum into nearly 2,000 U.S. elementary schools, according to the AP. It is taking hold in Southern California.
It helps youngsters who otherwise might have to wait for an adult or older sibling to teach them — or whose neighborhood and socioeconomic status might stop them from getting the chance. The activity is perfect for kindergarten physical education classes, Drew Raney, a PE teacher in Kern County said. For schools’ youngest students, gym class focuses on exploring movement, learning to share space and equipment, following directions, he said.
Some schools also pair the curriculum with other programs to teach road and pedestrian safety, learn how to cross streets, make eye contact with drivers and recognize unsafe behavior, the AP reported.
This story was originally published by EdSource.