Clinical Tip: To promote bike safety, use the power of example

Bicycle riding and safety are two of my interests-the first for fun and exercise, the second to improve safety in my favorite sport. For older children, every well-child visit includes a safety questionnaire. If the child says "No" when I ask "Do you wear a bike helmet for every ride?" I tell him that we'll go on a brief field trip. Then I take him to my office to see my helmet hanging on the handlebars of my bicycle. Children seem to enjoy the diversion and get the message.

Lance Chilton, MDAlbuquerque, N.M.