Don't Buy Your Kid an E-Scooter/ Bike This Christmas

Kids are begging for e-scooters and e-bikes this Christmas—but the rise in catastrophic injuries tells a very different story. In this episode, Dr Justin Coulson breaks down the shocking stats, the hidden dangers, and the conversations every parent must have before saying yes. This is the episode every parent needs to hear before heading to the checkout.

KEY POINTS

• Emergency departments are seeing a surge in serious e-scooter injuries—many life-threatening.
• Speed, illegal modifications, and lack of helmets are driving the spike.
• Developmentally, most kids and young teens are not ready for the risks.
• Laws vary widely across Australia and haven’t caught up to the tech.
• Pros vs cons: independence vs genuinely dangerous speeds and environments.
• What parents can do: age limits, non-negotiable rules, and real-world consequences.
  
  

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Right now we’re running a massive, uncontrolled experiment on our kids’ safety.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Local state road rules for e-bikes and e-scooters
• Happy Families resources at happyfamilies.com.au

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Delay the purchase—ideally until at least age 16.
2. Start small: ensure your child can safely handle a standard bike/scooter first.
3. Set iron-clad rules: helmets, no doubling, no night riding, no road riding, no phone use.
4. Inspect regularly for illegal modifications or unsafe setups.
5. Have the big conversation: talk openly about risks, responsibility, and real-world consequences.

Use meaningful, consistent consequences when rules are broken.

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