Kathy Brunning Melbourne Aug 24, 2009 12:14 pm

Hello,

A couple of years ago I set up Mums (& Dads) on Bikes rides in Northcote, Melbourne, for families with young children, designed especially for young children. The very short rides go to child-friendly destinations via quiet back streets and off-road paths, and are carefully planned to mostly avoid hills. They are generally no further than 10km return, with lunch and play in the middle. The rides often incorporate a train ride to shorten distances and to show families there is an alternative to the car. Children of all ages are welcomed, whether they are in tow or on their own bikes, with or without training wheels. Our motto is "No one is too slow. We're happy to stop for a rest, play, snack, breastfeed, nappy change or until a tantrum is over."

The program includes emails with details of upcoming rides and route maps (to enable families to meet us en route and to share bike and child-friendly cycling routes) and other women's and family-friendly cycling events.

I established the rides because all other family bike rides were around 20km long - too far for most young children on training wheels. I'm currently evaluating the program and need to do a literature review. Does anyone know of similar programs operating elsewhere?

Thanks,

Kathy Brunning
Australia