What statement about bicycle safety should parents reinforce with their child?

Walking the bike through busy intersections is a crucial safety measure that parents should reinforce with their children. This practice helps ensure the child is visible to drivers and can better assess the road conditions without the added distraction or risk of riding. Busy intersections are typically areas with high pedestrian and vehicle traffic, where accidents are more likely to occur. By instructing children to dismount and walk their bike through these areas, parents help them understand the importance of caution and situational awareness.

The other options can introduce dangerous behaviors. Riding against traffic can put a cyclist in a position where drivers do not expect them and increases the likelihood of accidents. Wearing a helmet only near busy intersections undermines the continuous need for protection, as accidents can happen anywhere. Lastly, riding barefoot, regardless of the distance, poses a risk of injury to the child’s feet and diminishes control over the bike. Thus, walking the bike through busy intersections stands out as the safest and most responsible practice.