The Town of Cochrane has partnered with Kiwanis and Bike Cochrane in an initiative to foster cycling literacy and active transportation among local students.
The Town is hopeful the partnership will equip young riders with essential biking skills and safety knowledge. “This initiative empowers families to choose cycling as a safe, reliable, and sustainable mode of transportation while reinforcing the importance of outdoor activity and community connectivity,” the Town said in a press release.
Through hands-on education, representatives from the Town of Cochrane, Kiwanis, and Bike Cochrane will visit Elizabeth Barrett, Glenbow, and RancheView Schools to deliver a series of interactive lessons that teach vital cycling skills.
These lessons will teach kids about safe routes to school maps designed to help students navigate the safest and most efficient biking routes to school. Students will also be taught bike safety education and will be provided with bike bells and practical safety talks to “reinforce responsible riding habits.”
There will also be a real-world cycling course that will guide students through an interactive obstacle course that simulates real riding scenarios. Lastly, the initiative will also provide helmet safety checks, ensuring students’ helmets fit correctly and are properly adjusted for optimal protection.
“Building cycling literacy at a young age helps instill confidence, independence, and lifelong healthy habits while also reducing congestion in school zones,” said Michelle Delorme, Director of Parks & Active Living for the Town of Cochrane. “By making cycling a safe and accessible choice, we’re strengthening our community, fostering environmental stewardship, and encouraging a generation of active citizens.”
To further promote cycling safety, the Town of Cochrane, Kiwanis, and Bike Cochrane are encouraging residents to take part in Cochrane Bike Safety Week. Between June 2 and June 6, residents can visit Cochrane RancheHouse, FCSS, The Station, or the Protective Services Building (PSB) to pick up a free bike bell.
“This initiative goes beyond safety – it’s about inspiring children to become active participants in their community, cultivating an appreciation for movement, sustainability, and the freedom that comes with cycling,” the Town stated.
