Unlocking Freedom: How Biking Builds Independent Kids and Teens

Children’s independent movement in the built environment has declined over the past several generations. Independent mobility is critical to kids and teens engaging in play, social connection, and physical activity. while experiencing freedom and developing autonomy. Presenters will deliver content focused on the benefits and factors associated with biking and independent mobility as well as interventions to support them. IM [Independent Mobility] is the freedom of children and teens to travel around their neighbourhood, community, or city without an adult. IM supports independence for kids and teens using their autonomy to navigate the transportation network and built environment. Professor Richard Larouche will discuss his research work with primary school students and their active travel. Esther Walker will discuss how Outride programs provide support through biking programs for adolescents/teens in communities across the US, and how their research shows benefits to social-emotional, mental and cognitive development. Megan Ramey will describe how her Safe Routes to School program in Hood River, OR, promotes free-range kids and teens with bike field trips and the 80s Walk & Roll Club while centering youth in infrastructure engagement with neighbors. Speakers: Professor Richard Larouche University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada Dr. Esther Walker, Director, Outride, Morgan Hill, CA Megan Ramey, Safe Routes to School Manager, Hood River, OR. Moderator: Rick Holt, Early Childhood Mobility Coalition, Cincinnati, OH