How-to
Fitting a child's bike helmet
Set the helmet low and level on the forehead, shape the side straps into a V under each ear, and snug the chin strap so only two fingers fit.
Satisfy+ Editorial · Updated May 31, 2026 · 2 min read · 10 min to do
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At a glance
- Front edge
- Two fingers above the eyebrows
- Side straps
- A V under each ear
- Chin strap
- Two fingers between strap and chin
- Rocking
- No more than an inch any way
More children aged 5 to 14 go to the emergency room for bicycle injuries than for any other sport, and many of those are head injuries. A helmet is the single most effective piece of safety gear for a rider of any age in a crash, and one that fits properly can prevent serious injuries. It should fit the child's head now, not one they'll grow into.
What you need
- The helmet, and the child
- A mirror, or a second person to adjust the straps
Steps
- 1
Set the size
Put the helmet level on the child's head and adjust the sizing pads or the fit ring until it's snug.
2 min
- 2
Set the position
Place two fingers flat on the forehead just above the eyebrows. The front rim of the helmet sits just above your fingers, level and straight.
1 min
- 3
Shape the side straps
Slide the adjuster on each side so the straps form a V under the ear and slightly in front of it, the same shape as two fingers held around the ear. Lock the sliders if they lock.
2 min
- 4
Center the buckle and fasten the chin strap
Tighten it until it's snug, with no more than two fingers fitting between the strap and the chin.
2 min
- 5
Do the yawn test
Have the child open their mouth wide. The helmet should pull down on the head. If it doesn't, tighten the chin strap.
1 min
- 6
Check for rocking
If the helmet tips back past two fingers above the eyebrows, shorten the front straps. If it tips forward into the eyes, tighten the back straps. It shouldn't move more than an inch forward, back or to the side.
2 min
Fit the bike helmets
- Check each child's helmet fit with the two-finger test
Every ride
Readjust the helmet as needed so it fits on every ride. Look for the Consumer Product Safety Commission certification label inside it. A helmet that's been in a crash can be damaged where you can't see it.
Before heading out, check the bike fits the child and the brakes work. Bright clothing helps in daylight, and reflective gear with a white front light and a red rear light helps at night.
FAQ
How should a child's bike helmet fit?
Level and low on the forehead, two fingers above the eyebrows, with the side straps in a V under each ear and the chin strap snug enough that only two fingers fit under it.
How do I know the chin strap is tight enough?
Have your child yawn. The helmet should pull down on their head.
Can my child use a helmet that's a bit big?
No. The helmet should fit their head now, not one they'll grow into.
Sources
Checked October 20, 2026
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Bicycle safety: fitting a bicycle helmet (2024)
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Fitting your bike helmet (DOT HS 811 568) (2012)
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Bicycle safety (2026)
- Beginner
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