It's underway! My daughter Lotte began secondary school this year, and after a few months, she's settling in well—getting comfortable with the bike ride to school, her lessons, new classmates, and teachers. Thankfully, everything is going smoothly. Yet, a 30-minute bike commute each way is no small feat. Fine weather makes it enjoyable, but autumn and winter bring longer, darker days that test our resolve.
Mornings are still dark when she leaves, and it won't be long before evenings feel the same on her return. It's a slight exaggeration, but on overcast days, the difference is minimal. I support the bike rides in good weather—a little chill is manageable with proper layers—but rain changes everything.
Here's my challenge: I sold my car, eliminating weekday drop-offs or pickups on Monday through Wednesday. My old Audi TT lacked a towbar for a bike carrier anyway. That could have been fixed easily; for instance, you can order the right towbar and bike carrier for your car online here. Alternatively, we could leave her bike at school overnight, though that means two trips.
On Thursdays and Fridays, my partner Frank is home, so I can borrow his car, which has a towbar for her bike. But with three friends cycling together, space for only two bikes poses another hurdle. Parenting older kids still brings worries, no matter what.
Of course, I know cycling is healthy—a point echoed by experts like the Fietsersbond (Dutch Cyclists' Union), which highlights its fun, smart, sustainable, and educational value. They note that biking once more per week boosts endurance by nearly 25%. Imagine the gains from a 30-minute commute five days a week! Still, as a parent, I feel guilty watching her brave the rain while I'm cozy indoors.
Fortunately, Lotte appreciates some perks: an hour round-trip burns calories equivalent to a Cornetto or Magnum ice cream—motivation she loves, especially since we reward grades of 9 or higher with cake. Research also shows brain function improves for up to three hours post-ride, perfect for morning classes and afternoon homework.
Suddenly, it clicks: by sticking to the bike (towbar or not), I'm helping her build stamina, boost grades, and stay healthier. That cake? It's partly my reward too.
