Friday, September 28, 2018

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Entertain a Toddler

Posted: 28 Sep 2018 05:00 PM PDT

Toddlers tend to have boundless energy, short attention spans, and an eagerness to interact with others. This means that keeping them entertained involves a lot of active engagement on your part. However, toddlers can also be enthralled by simple things, like copying you or playing with a box, and love activities that put them "in charge." So be creative, keep it simple, and have fun!

EditSteps

EditSharing Fun Activities in Your Home

  1. Play dress-up together. If a toddler sees you putting on a tie or a necklace, they usually want to do the same thing. Pile up some clothes near a big mirror and have a dress-up fashion show! Or, get fancied up for a tea party or a "business meeting."[1]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Toddlers also like to mimic adults doing things like shaving or styling their hair. Look for a toddler-friendly shaving or hair styling kit so they can follow along with you.
  2. Write cards or letters to friends and family. Toddlers can add a unique artistic touch to any card or letter. Give them their own sheet of paper or card to work on while you write yours, then send them both to a friend or loved one. Or, write the card or letter, then let them "spruce it up" a bit.[2]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 2 Version 3.jpg
  3. Let them choose the stories you'll read. This is one of the simplest ways to let a toddler feel like they're in control. Be warned, though—this may mean you'll read the same book over and over again![3]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 3 Version 4.jpg
    • To make things a bit easier, you can present them with 2 options and let them decide—"Do you want to read this book or this one?" They'll still feel like they're the one making the call.
  4. Play "follow the leader" as the follower. Most toddlers will relish the chance to be the one giving you orders. Let them lead you (and anyone else playing along) around the house, throughout the yard, or both![4]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • If they're able to get the hang of the game "Simon says" as the follower, you can also give them the chance to be the one giving the commands.
    • You can also get your toddler used to following and giving directions by starting out with follow-along songs like "If You're Happy and You Know It."
  5. Create music with them as the composer. Pull out some musical toys to play with, or just get out some pots and pans to bang away on. Ask them to make up the song and start playing, and then you can join in and make a beautiful racket together![5]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • You may want to set up a recital or concert for an audience of stuffed animals.
  6. Let them pick from a rotating selection of toys. Toddlers like to choose which toys to play with, but letting them choose from everything can be overwhelming for them—and for you when it's time to clean up! Instead of keeping every toy accessible, rotate some of the toys in and out of circulation every few days.[6]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • This can make old toys feel like new again.
    • It can also make storing toys easier, as only a certain number of toys need to be kept in spots easily accessible to your toddler.
  7. Have a dance party to their favorite music. Put on a CD of their favorite toddler tunes, or pull up a toddler music channel on your favorite streaming app. But don't just sit back and watch them create new dance moves—join in![7]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • Record them dancing on your smartphone and then play it back to them. Kids usually love watching themselves get down!

EditEntertaining Them Outdoors and Away from Home

  1. Take a walk and let them choose the route. This helps them burn off some energy and be the person in charge. Depending on their age, they can either direct you from their stroller or lead you by the hand.[8]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 8 Version 3.jpg
    • Consider limiting them to 2 options in order to make things a little easier—"Should we turn this way or this way?"
  2. Go for a nature walk and collect items. Bring along a bag or bucket and let them decide (within reason) what to pick up. You could look for pine cones, leaves, rocks, dandelions, or whatever else interests them.[9]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • You might help them create a nature collage or leaf book when you get back home.
    • If they're collecting things you don't really want to drag home, you can usually discard items as you go without them noticing.
  3. Set up a sandbox in your yard. If you're handy, you can build one yourself, or buy a pre-made one. In any case, toddlers will love to dig in, fill buckets, build castles, and have a sandy good time!
    Entertain a Toddler Step 10 Version 4.jpg
    • Grab a bag of sand toys, or just use some plastic measuring cups, drinking cups, spoons, etc.
    • Make sure the sandbox has a cover for when it's not being used. It can be a health hazard if animals start using it as a litter box.
  4. Go with them to a toddler-friendly playground. Toddlers can have a blast on slides, swings, and other playground classics, but look for playgrounds that are designed with toddlers in mind. Look for swings that have deep seats with leg openings to secure a toddler in place, and slides that aren't too high or fast. The playground should also have a soft surface for them to run (and inevitably fall) on.[10]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • Toddlers need close supervision at all times while on a playground, even if it is designed for kids their age. Don't just sit on the bench and check in occasionally—walk around with them and help them enjoy their playtime safely.
  5. Put on rain boots and jump in puddles. A rainy day does not need to be an impediment to a toddler having fun outside. Grab their raincoat, boots, and umbrella and let them find the biggest puddles around. Even better, put your rain gear on and splash along with them.[11]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 12 Version 2.jpg
    • Use common sense, of course. Taking a toddler out in a light rain shower is fine; in a thunderstorm, not so much.
  6. Find a pool, gym, or indoor play area nearby. If the weather simply isn't cooperating, don't feel like you have to keep a toddler cooped up in the house. If they're familiar with the water and you have the proper gear, take them to an indoor or outdoor swimming pool. During a summer heat wave or a cold winter, an indoor play area at your local shopping mall can make a nice retreat.[12]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 13 Version 2.jpg
    • Never take pool safety for granted with toddlers. Make sure they have an approved life jacket that fits properly, and supervise them closely at all times.
  7. Take them to a children's museum. If you have a children's museum nearby, you'll find it to be a great place for keeping a toddler actively engaged for hours. Children's museums have lots of hands-on activities geared toward younger kids, and you don't have to worry too much about them breaking anything![13]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • While not as fully kid-centric, science, art, and history museums often have kid-friendly areas or programs as well. Your local library might also have an area where kids can read and play.
  8. Play classic games in cars, planes, or restaurants. It's hard for a toddler to remain cooped up in any one spot for more than a few minutes. Keeping them engaged with simple games like "I spy" can help distract them from the boredom of being stuck in the same spot.[14]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 15 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also try putting a selection of items on the restaurant table or airplane seat tray, taking something away while the toddler covers their eyes, and asking them to figure out what's missing.
    • Sing-alongs, whether backed up by your stereo or not, are a great choice for car rides.

EditKeeping Them Occupied While You Work a Bit

  1. Let them help you clean. If you need to dust, give them their own little dusting wand and let them clean off low shelves and non-breakable items. If you're doing laundry, work on color recognition together while sorting clothes. If you want to vacuum, get them a toy vacuum so they can follow you around with it.[15]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 16 Version 2.jpg
    • Generally speaking, they won't actually be helping you clean, and will often make things a little bit less clean in the process. Learn to embrace it, and enjoy watching them try!
    • Offer your toddler toy versions of your broom, dustpan, or other cleaning supplies, and let them follow along with you as you clean.
  2. Help them "bake cookies" with play dough. Older toddlers may be able to help you with your baking by stirring batters or using plastic cookie cutters. For younger toddlers, you can set up a workstation on the kitchen table or floor and let them do their own "baking" while you do yours.[16]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 17 Version 2.jpg
    • Buy or make play dough for them to use and provide plastic cookie cutters and utensils, and a few old baking sheets. You can compare the looks of your resulting cookie creations!
    • Even if you do make homemade play dough out of ingredients in your pantry, make sure your toddler doesn't eat it.
    • If your toddler is old enough, let them use plastic cookie cutters to cut out real cookie dough and help you put the cookies on the baking sheet.
  3. Rake leaves or do other yard work together. Instead of trying to squeeze in some yard work while they're napping, bring your toddler outside to help. While they'll probably make it take longer to actually rake the leaves, you'll both enjoy it when they start jumping in the leaf pile![17]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 18 Version 3.jpg
    • Some toddlers might also like to help pick up sticks and twigs, pull weeds, or clear small amounts of snow.
  4. Create a safe play space for them. If you need to get some work done, it's important to remember that you can't really take your eyes off a toddler for more than a few seconds at a time. You need to make sure you're situated in a spot where you can see them clearly, and that the play area is properly toddler-proofed.[18]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 19 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're letting them play in your home office, for instance, make sure you protect or remove any electrical or wiring hazards, sharp objects, hard surfaces, and choking hazards. It may be better, in fact, to set up a mini workspace for yourself in the child's typical play area.
  5. Record yourself reading their favorite books. Reading directly to a toddler is much more interactive and personal, of course. But, when you need to get a few things done, handing them one of their books while you play audio of you reading it can provide a useful distraction.[19]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 20 Version 2.jpg
    • You could also create a video of yourself reading the book and holding up the pictures, then play it back on a TV or other screen.
  6. Give them a cardboard box to play with. Every parent of a toddler has seen it happen—their kid ends up more interested in the box the toy came in than the toy itself. So, at least sometimes, just skip the toy part and provide them with an empty cardboard box or 2 to create and play with.[20]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 21 Version 3.jpg
    • With a little help from you, toddlers can find nearly limitless uses for a simple box. It can be a spaceship, a puppet stage, a mailbox, a hiding spot, and so much more!
    • Play with your toddler and give them some ideas about how to use the box. This will inspire their creativity, and they may soon start coming up with ideas on their own!
  7. Set up play-dates with other toddlers. When you're tired and frazzled, adding more toddlers to the mix may seem like the last thing you want to do. However, the kids will help to keep each other occupied, meaning you can become more of a supervisor than an active participant for at least a little while. And, if you invite other parent(s) with their toddler(s) for a play-date, you can take turns with them being the primary lookout for the kids.[21]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 22 Version 3.jpg
    • See if you can set up weekly play-dates at a local park, or rotate them among several homes with toddlers.
  8. Have the next activity ready to go when they get bored. Toddlers have short attention spans, so you have to plan ahead if you want to keep them occupied for more than a couple minutes at a time. When they suddenly lose interest in the pots and pans they were banging on, for example, have some building blocks or art supplies ready to go.[22]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 23.jpg
    • There is one thing that can invariably keep a toddler occupied for a long stretch of time—you! Make the most of the full attention your toddler wants to give you—they'll be off to school and making friends before you know it!
  9. Rely on TV or screen time only as a temporary last resort. Plopping a toddler in front of a TV or other screen to keep them occupied should only be a short-term alternative when you don't have better options. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for kids under 18 months, very limited screen time with an adult watching along at 18-24 months, and no more than 1 hour per day of solo screen time from 2-5 years.[23]
    Entertain a Toddler Step 24.jpg
    • Choose educational programming with limited or no advertising, and watch along with them whenever possible.
    • To make things a bit more engaging, help them set up their dolls or stuffed animals in chairs to create a "movie theater." You might even make up tickets to sell for the show![24]
    • Or, drag out some home movies for them to watch. Toddlers are often fascinated by seeing themselves on the big screen, and they might be especially intrigued by seeing themselves as a tiny baby!

EditTips

  • Let the toddler be in charge of a game, like letting them be the teacher if you're playing school.
  • If you're babysitting, try having a "surprise bag"—put in some toys like bouncy balls, stickers, mini stuffed animals, etc. Tell them they'll get to pull an item from the surprise bag every hour so long as they are playing nicely.

EditWarnings

  • Be prepared to listen to the same song 10 times, or to do something repetitive for a long time.
  • Avoid anything dangerous, and keep an eye on the toddler at all times.
  • When giving a snack, make sure that the toddler can't choke on anything.
  • Although it's tempting to let a TV, computer, or tablet screen entertain a toddler, unattended screen time for toddlers is highly discouraged by experts. If the toddler is watching a show or playing a video game, make sure it is educational in nature and play along with them to make it more interactive.[25]

EditThings You'll Need

  • Craft supplies
  • CD player and CDs
  • Favorite movies
  • Dress-up clothes
  • Games
  • Plenty of patience

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Ride a Motorcycle

Posted: 28 Sep 2018 09:00 AM PDT

Motorcycles are fun vehicles that allow you to experience the open road. However, it's critical that you learn to ride in a controlled and safe way. Take a motorcycle safety course and get a permit or license if it is required in your region. Before you start to ride, purchase safety gear and get to know how your bike handles. With a little time and practice, you'll be ready to cruise around on your bike!

EditSteps

EditGetting a License and Registering Your Bike

  1. Sign up for a motorcycle safety course. Look online to find a course near you so you can learn the basics of operating and controlling a motorcycle. These classes typically offer a classroom safety portion and a hands-on riding portion. If you're uncomfortable with riding a motorcycle, a course is a great place to start.[1]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Some classes will have motorcycles that you can ride if you do not have one of your own.
    • Check for licensing classes if you need a motorcycle license in your area. These classes tend to run a few more days than a non-licensing class, but you'll receive the proper permits once you're finished.
    • Motorcycle laws vary depending on where you live. Consult with your local department of motor vehicles to determine the prerequisites for obtaining a license. In the United States, most places require you to be 15 or 16 in order to get a permit. Otherwise, you must be under the supervision of a licensed instructor.
  2. Take the written exam and vision test if required. Schedule a test time that works best for you. The written test will cover basic concepts and rules of the road while the vision test will determine if you can safely drive without a prescription. You need to pass this written exam first before you take the on-cycle test.[2]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 2 Version 3.jpg
    • Written and on-cycle exams are required in order to get your license.
    • Questions on written exam include safety information, riding techniques, and how to operate your bike. Get familiar with how your motorcycle works and what your area's laws are for riding a motorcycle. Read through a copy of your location's motorcycle handbook to familiarize yourself with safety tips, laws, and regulations.[3]
    • Go to your department of motor vehicle's website to find online practice tests for the written exam.
  3. Pass the on-cycle exam to get your license. Schedule the test appointment at your department of motor vehicles. The tester will observe you as you ride your motorcycle, making sure you follow the rules of the road. Follow all of the safety precautions you've learned prior as you complete the test. Once you pass the exam, you can pay the registration fee for your licensing.[4]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • The on-cycle exam will include identifying where the controls are for your bike, as well as riding slowly in a circle and serpentine pattern. Make sure to practice these techniques on your own before you take the test.[5]
    • During the test, be aware of your surroundings and always travel below the speed limit.
    • Depending on your location, this can be done at the department of motor vehicles or with a certified third-party tester.
    • In the United States, you need to hold an instruction permit for 12 months if you are under 16 in order to get your license.
  4. Register your motorcycle. Visit your local department of motor vehicles in order to register your bike. You will need to have the title for your motorcycle as well as make a required payment. Check online for any other specifics you need while registering your vehicle.[6]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • Registration may differ in your area if you purchased it from a dealership or a private seller. Check your local regulations online.
    • Ensure you have updated tags for your license plate, if required in your area.
  5. Get insurance for your bike. In order for you to legally drive in some areas, you need to have insurance. Check with your local regulations to see if you need insurance. If so, talk to your current insurance provider to see if they have an option or bundle for motorcycles.
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 5 Version 3.jpg
  6. Check your bike to make sure it is in working condition. Check your tire air pressure with a tire pressure gauge and fill them if they are low. Look at your brake fluid and oil levels to make sure they are filled correctly. Kneel on the ground to visually inspect your brake pads and chains to make sure they aren't worn down or rusted. If anything looks wrong on your bike, don't ride it.[7]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • Test turning your lights and turn signals on and off to make sure none of the bulbs are burnt out.

EditWearing the Right Gear

  1. Purchase a helmet. Head injuries are the main cause of serious or fatal accidents for cyclists, and helmets can greatly reduce the risk of harm. Find a full-coverage helmet that has a visor that doesn't limit your vision so you can stay aware of your surroundings. Make sure the chinstrap fits tightly around your head so the helmet stays secure.[8]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • Look for a Department of Transportation (DOT) or European Commission (ECE) sticker or label to see if the helmet meets the legal requirements for safe riding.
    • Do not wear helmets with tinted visors when visibility is low or while riding at night.
    • Helmets usually have ventilation systems so your head will stay cool in hot weather.
    • Not all locations require you to wear a helmet when you ride. Check with your local laws to find out.
  2. Get a snug jacket made of a sturdy material. Jackets made out of leather or a strong synthetic material will work the best for the most protection. Find jackets with lightweight body armor on your shoulders and elbows so you're less prone to injury if you get into an accident.[9]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 8 Version 3.jpg
    • Find a jacket that has reflectors built into the fabric so you are more visible to other vehicles. If you cannot find a jacket with them sewn in, use reflective tape on the front, back, and on the arms of your jacket.
  3. Wear long pants to protect your legs. In case of a fall, pants will protect the entire lengths of your legs more than shorts. Purchase a thicker material like denim for the best protection while riding your motorcycle.[10]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • Wear leather chaps over your pants for an extra layer of protection.
  4. Pick out boots and gloves. Get boots with short heels so they don't get caught on any rough surfaces. Make sure the gloves cover all of your fingers and the boots come above your ankle. Find a non-slip material that is durable, such as leather, that makes it easier to hold onto your bike in all weather conditions.[11]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • Tuck the laces inside your boot so they don't hang or get caught on anything.
    • Not only do gloves protect your hands while riding or during an accident, they will also help prevent your skin from drying out.

EditLearning the Controls on Your Bike

  1. Locate the throttle on the right side grip of your motorcycle. Find the throttle on the right-hand grip of your bike. The throttle controls the speed of the motorcycle. To accelerate and engage the engine, twist the throttle toward you.[12]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • Make sure the throttle snaps back into place if you turn it and let go. If not, have a mechanic take a look at it before you ride.
  2. Find the brakes above the right grip and near your right foot peg. Locate the brake for the front wheel by the handle right above the throttle. You'll be using the front brake most frequently. While sitting on the bike, find the rear wheel brake with your right foot. Depress the lever to engage the brake.[13]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • Most of your stopping power will come from braking your front tire.
    • If you don't see a lever near your right foot for a rear wheel brake, consult the owner's manual for your motorcycle to learn where specific controls are found.
  3. Familiarize yourself with the clutch and shifter. Most motorcycles are manual transmissions and need to be shifted up or down as you accelerate and decelerate. Look for the clutch above the left handlebar. It will look similar to the handle that controls your brakes. Find the shifter in front of your left foot and control it with the up and down lever.[14]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 13 Version 3.jpg
    • Keep your bike in neutral with your kickstand down when you aren't using it. Neutral is usually found in between the first and second gear.
    • Many motorcycles work with a "1 down, 5 up" shift pattern. From lowest to highest, the gears usually go first, neutral, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth.

EditPracticing Riding Techniques

  1. Get on your bike. Approach your bike from the left side and hold onto the left handlebar for support. Swing your leg over the seat, making sure not to hit your foot on the tail of the bike. Plant both of your feet flat on the ground and get comfortable in your seat. Once you have your feet planted, you can raise the kickstand with the back of your foot.[15]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 14 Version 3.jpg
    • Ensure your kickstand is up before you start riding.
  2. Start your engine and let it run for about 1 minute. Turn the key in the ignition so that it's on and turn the red switch on your right handlebar to the "on" or "run" position. Ensure your bike is in neutral before starting the engine. Hold the clutch in before hitting the start button, which is usually below the red switch and is marked with a lightning bolt. Let the engine turn over so that it is warmed up and properly running when you ride your bike.[16]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 15 Version 3.jpg
    • Always look on the gauge indicator on your motorcycle's dashboard to ensure that it's in neutral. If not, adjust the gear shift lever while holding the clutch to the neutral position.
    • Holding the clutch in while starting your motorcycle prevents it the bike from moving forward if you aren't in neutral.
    • If you have a kick start bike, the starting mechanism is found behind your right foot. Press down on it firmly to turn over the engine.
  3. Keep your headlights on and use turn signals. Locate the controls for your headlights and turn signals, which are typically found on the left handlebar. Use them whenever you ride on populated roads so other drivers can see you.[17]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 16 Version 3.jpg
    • If your bike doesn't have turn signals, you'll need to use hand signals. Stick your left hand straight out so it's parallel to the ground, palm facing down, to indicate a left turn. Bend your left elbow so your forearm is at a 90-degree to your bicep (which should be parallel to the ground) and close your fist to indicate a right turn. Begin signaling before you make the turn and return both hands to the handlebars when executing the turn.[18]
  4. Shift into first gear and slowly ride your bike. Position your left foot so your heel is on the peg and your toes are near the lever. Hold the clutch down and shift to first gear by pushing the shifter down with your left foot. Your bike will start to move on its own without activating the throttle as you slowly release the clutch. Practice keeping your balance as it moves forward at a slow speed. Keep your hand on the brake in case you start losing control.[19]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 17 Version 3.jpg
    • Practice on an isolated section of road or in a parking lot that has little traffic so you don't have to worry about other motorists.
    • If you let go of the clutch too fast, you may kill the engine. If this happens, shift back into neutral and start your engine again.
    • Practice "power walking" by walking it forward while slowly releasing the clutch to accelerate. Work your way up until you're comfortable keeping your feet on the pegs while your bike is moving.
  5. Squeeze your clutch and shift gears with your left foot. When you feel comfortable going faster, turn the throttle slightly towards your body as you release the clutch to accelerate. Once you go over , ease off of the throttle, squeeze your clutch in, and pull your shifter up past neutral into second gear. Once you've shifted your motorcycle, let go of the clutch and accelerate again.[20]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 18 Version 3.jpg
    • As you increase your speed, you need to shift into higher gears. As you decrease speed, downshift to a lower gear. Make sure to let off of your throttle when you squeeze your clutch as you shift.
    • Once you switch into second gear, you don't have to shift down to first gear until you come to a complete stop.
  6. Make turns by pushing the handlebar on the opposite side forward. Look in the direction you're turning rather than looking straight forward. Slow down as you approach your turn by releasing the throttle. To make a left turn, pull the left handlebar closer to you and push the right handlebar forward. For a right turn, pull the right handlebar close to you and push the left one forward.[21]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 19.jpg
    • For faster turns, practice countersteering. As you make your turn, lean slightly in the direction you wish to go while pushing the handlebar away from you to stay balanced.
    • If you make too sharp of a turn, it will cause you to crash.
  7. Practice slowing to a stop. As you release the throttle, slowly pull on the clutch and squeeze the front brake to slow down. Rest your foot on the rear brake and press down slightly to slow down. Once you come to stop, plant your left foot on the ground and keep your right foot on the rear brake.[22]
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 20.jpg
    • If you are finished riding, shift your bike into neutral once you come to a stop.
    • Don't squeeze hard on the front brake or else you could cause your tires to lock up and cause skidding or an accident.
  8. Move on to more populated roads. Once you feel more comfortable with the basics of riding and controlling your bike, work onto roads with slight amounts of traffic. Keep your surroundings in mind as you ride your bike and be aware of other drivers.
    Ride a Motorcycle Step 21.jpg

EditTips

  • Check with your local department of motor vehicles to see if you need a permit or special license before you ride a motorcycle.

EditWarnings

  • Practice under the supervision of an experienced rider to stay safe.
  • Avoid potholes, gravel, and hazardous road conditions. While cars can usually handle these easily, they are extremely dangerous for cyclists.
  • Always stay aware of where other drivers are on the road.
  • Wear all of the safety gear, including a helmet, jacket, long pants, gloves, and boots, to protect yourself in case you fall off your bike.
  • Lane splitting is when a cyclist maneuvers between rows of stopped cars, but it may or may not be illegal in your area. Check with your local laws to see if you can use this technique.[23]

EditSources and Citations

EditQuick Summary


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How to Fix Strawberry Legs

Posted: 28 Sep 2018 01:00 AM PDT

Strawberry legs is caused by ingrown hairs or dirt that gets trapped in the hair follicles, which causes the skin on your legs to look similar to strawberry flesh. This condition is not dangerous, but the appearance of it may bother you. The most common causes of strawberry legs are acne and ingrown hairs. By developing a good cleansing and shaving routine for your legs, you can get rid of existing strawberry legs and prevent it from happening again. If you still deal with strawberry legs or if they are interfering with your daily life, then see a dermatologist for stronger treatment options.

EditSteps

EditCleansing Your Legs to Reduce Clogged Pores

  1. Shower daily and any time you get sweaty. Regular showers are important for good hygiene and they may also help to prevent strawberry legs. Take a shower once per day to wash away dirt and dead skin cells from your legs. You should also shower after exercising or any time your legs get sweaty.[1]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 1.jpg
    • Try taking a shower every morning to help you wake up or shower in the evening to help you relax after a busy day.
    • Use a washcloth to cleanse your legs. Move the washcloth downward or in the direction of your hair growth. Don't scrub against the grain.
  2. Use a mild, fragrance-free skin cleanser. When you wash your legs, make sure that you use a gentle cleanser that does not contain added fragrances, since these may irritate your legs. Instead, look for a cleanser that is labeled as gentle.[2]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 2.jpg
    • You can use a gentle cleanser that is meant for your face and body, such as Cetaphil.
  3. Exfoliate your legs 1 or 2 times per week. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and dirt from your skin that is left over from regular cleansing. Exfoliate your legs once or twice per week to help prevent strawberry legs. Exfoliating may also help you to get rid of existing strawberry legs.[3]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 3.jpg
    • Look for an exfoliating product that contains salicylic acid to help fight acne on your legs
  4. Apply non-comedogenic moisturizers only. Moisturizers that are labeled as non-comedogenic are less likely to clog the pores in your legs and cause pimples. Look for the term non-comedogenic on the bottle of any body lotion you buy.
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 4.jpg
    • You may also want to avoid moisturizers that contain oil, since some oils may clog your pores. If you cannot find a non-comedogenic body lotion, then look for lotion that is labeled as oil-free.

EditShaving Carefully to Prevent Ingrown Hairs

  1. Apply shaving cream to wet legs. Never shave your legs when they are dry. Apply the shaving cream to your legs when they are wet, such as when you are in the shower. Leave the shaving cream on while you are shaving. Do not rinse it off.[4]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 5.jpg
    • If shaving irritation is causing your strawberry legs, then you may want to stick with shaving creams that are meant for sensitive skin.[5]
  2. Use a new, sharp razor every time you shave. A dull razor will be less effective at removing your leg hair and it will also increase the chances that you will nick your skin. Instead, always shave your legs with a new, sharp razor.[6]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 6.jpg
    • Consider getting a razor meant for sensitive skin to help reduce the chances of irritating your skin.
  3. Shave with the grain of your hair. Most people shave their legs against the grain to get a close shave, but this can increase your chances of ingrown hairs. Shaving with the grain, or in the same direction as your leg hair's growth, will help to reduce the chances of ingrown hairs as well.[7]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 7.jpg
    • Leg hair usually grows down towards your feet, so shave in this direction to shave with the grain.
    • Make sure that you do not press down too hard with the razor or shave too close because this will increase the chances of ingrown hairs.[8]
  4. Rinse the razor between strokes. To ensure that the razor is cutting hairs with each stroke, rinse it under warm running water between strokes. Rinse the blades until all of the shaving cream and hair has been rinsed away.[9]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 8.jpg
    • If you have a lot of hair to remove, then you might need to rinse the blade more frequently.
  5. Rinse your legs, pat them dry, and apply lotion. When you have finished shaving your legs, rinse away the remaining shave cream residue. Then, pat your legs dry with a clean towel and apply a layer of lotion to them.[10]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 9.jpg
    • Follow the same routine every time you shave to help reduce the chances of ingrown hairs.

EditSeeking Professional Help for Strawberry Legs

  1. See a dermatologist if acne or ingrown hairs bother you. If you have tried over-the-counter and home treatment strategies and nothing seems to help, then it may be time to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can offer you stronger and possibly more effective treatment options. They can also help to treat any infections or scarring that strawberry legs might have caused.[11]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 10.jpg
    • You may need to ask your primary care physician for a referral.
  2. Ask about retinoid creams to remove dead skin cells. Dead skin cells that build up on your legs may be causing your strawberry legs. If you have tried other products to keep your legs clean and acne-free, then you may want to ask a dermatologist about a prescription retinoid cream.[12]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 11.jpg
    • You will need to apply the cream daily and avoid exposing your legs to sunlight while you are using the cream.
  3. Look into laser hair removal. If recurrent ingrown hairs are to blame for your strawberry legs, then you might consider laser hair removal. This will remove the hair on your legs for several months and it should grow back lighter and finer than before. Ask your dermatologist if this might be a good choice for you.[13]
    Fix Strawberry Legs Step 12.jpg
    • You will need between 2 to 6 treatments to remove all of the hair.
    • Keep in mind that laser hair removal is expensive and insurance will not cover the cost.

EditTips

  • If you tend to wear tight pants or leggings made from synthetic fabrics, try switching to looser fitting pants and those that are made of natural fibers, such as cotton and linen.[14]

EditSources and Citations


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