One of the most important things a parent can do is gradually become less necessary.

That doesn’t mean becoming less supportive.

It means transferring responsibility.

Age 5

Parent:

“Here’s your helmet.”

Age 9

Parent:

“Did you check your helmet?”

Age 13

Parent:

“Show me your gear checklist.”

Age 16

Parent:

“Are you ready?”

Adult

Rider:

“I’m ready.”

That is development.