Looking for a new routine this school year and interested in giving bike riding to campus a go? There are resources out there to help you and your child on your way.

Some good information can be had at www.sonomasaferoutes.org as well as at www.safekidssonomacounty.org/resources_bike_safety.htm#top

These sites will direct parents and/or interested teachers and school officials to the ins and outs of hosting a “bike rodeo” during which students can practice safety skills, learn rules of the road and get excited about getting to school in a new way. There is also information on how to sign up for helmet programs for those kids whose families are not able to afford a proper fitting helmet (which is required by law).

If you want to talk with someone directly, call Tina Panza, director of Safe Routes to Schools under the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition at 545-0153 or via email at tinap@bikesonoma.org

The Safe Routes to Schools program is currently working with 24 campuses across Sonoma County in bringing safety programs and encouragement for riding bikes to school to second, fourth and fifth graders. The schools involved in this program were selected from an application process. For more information on how to get your school involved or to inquire if there are still available programs for the 2012-13 school year, call Panza.

As a reminder, International Walk & Roll to School Day is coming up…Oct. 3. If you want to sign your school up for that event, go here http://sonomasaferoutes.org/wrts/walk-roll-registration

Registration closes Sept. 7.