As I've asserted a lot of times before, riding mini ATV for kids is a healthy activity. Nevertheless, without taking proper precautions, it can be dangerous. Such is the case when misinformed or negligent individuals allow their kids to ride an ATV that is not meant for kids or letting kids ride without proper protective gears. In most cases, the kids get off without incident. In some cases, it may prove to be a negligent mistake.

Therefore, before letting your kids ride their mini ATVs, we should always do the following.

• Get them proper mini ATVs made for kids - there are many different makes and types of mini ATVs in the market today, therefore, consumers are truly spoilt for choice. But not all vehicles are made the same. Erring on the side of caution can never be a bad thing, you see, so, ensure that the mini ATV that you're going to purchase for your kid is made specifically for kids your child's age.

• The next thing parents should do is to invest in a full protective gear. The most important protective gear is the helmet because it protects your kids' helmets. I don't want to nag and repeat myself but remember to get your kid proper ATV helmet that fits them to the T - no arguments about that one. I've seen too many kids wearing hand-me-down helmets from their uncles, cousins, sister or brothers that hang either too loose or too tight. This is strictly a big NO-NO! You should also consider getting the kids other safety gears before letting them ride the ATV....stuff like body protector, knee and elbow guard, and proper ATV riding gear would be good. While it does not 100% protect the kid but risk of injury or fatality is minimized.

• Don't skimp on the training. Even if you're a responsible and skilled riding your ATV, sending your kids for ATV training classes is not an option - it's almost compulsory in my books. And besides, it's my personal opinion that your kids will listen to a mentor better as opposed to listening to you. Sending a group of kids for the training should work even better as learning the proper safety riding rules is more fun that way.

• Relax....yes, you, the parent. We should all relax and let the kids ride their ATVs. Hovering over them and putting a chain around them will only make them feel that they should hide from you whenever they want to do something new. If you let loose a little, they might consult you if they want to do a new trick on their ATV and perhaps, ask your advice on how to do it safely and properly.