Opinion
Why I, a father, don’t wear a bike helmet
by Martin Rupf
This fun sponge says: Dad, put your helmet on!
24.3.2022
Translation: Katherine Martin
My colleague in the editorial team recently wrote an article about why he, as a father, has no inclination to wear a bike helmet – or be a role model. The outcry was considerable. And I can’t let it go either.
In your opinion piece, you mentioned the duty of parents to be role models for their kids. For the most part, I couldn’t have said it better myself. Day after day, I’m supposed to set a good example for my children. But I often fail to do so.
The list goes on and on. But I’ll spare you (and me) further details. I’m not proud of it. The point I’m making is I’m a poor role model for my children in many ways.
Not a perfect mother, not a perfect role model
But do you know what? It’s okay. And I had to learn to able to say that. Because for a long time, like many other mums, I felt obliged to be not just a good mother, but a perfect one. One that effortlessly juggled her family, job, hobbies and household, while, thanks to her daily yoga routine, staying relaxed and even-keeled. And guess what? I failed miserably.
I mean, we’re only human, aren’t we? Most importantly, we’re better role models for our children when we don’t always behave admirably – because then we’re being authentic. That’s what you wrote in your article. After all, it’s key that children see how we parents cope with imperfection, with mistakes.
But – and this is where I disagree with you completely – some things can’t just be chalked up as «authentic» or dismissed using the supposed-sense-of-freedom argument. Especially when it comes to our children’s safety. And when it comes to things like wearing a helmet, which you, as a father, oppose. Clearly, I’m not the only one who thinks you crossed the line here.
You’ve crossed the line – and blotted your copybook
You’ll notice that I’m mutating into a patronising schoolmarm here. But let’s not go there – the Galaxus Community has already put you in your place. After all, you do paradoxically write that you wear a helmet when riding your racing bike or cycling for longer distances. You go on to say that, «There is, in fact, no rational reason not to wear a helmet.»
Fun sponges and boneheads
I’ll gladly answer the question you raise about whether or not wearing a helmet is perhaps a small, immature act of resistance against a society obsessed with regulating and banning things: yes, it is!
On the other hand, I observe the same phenomenon in my husband. He also likes to resist the rules from time to time, preserving a childlike rebellious streak inside him. I’ll leave the question of whether this has something to do with gender open for now. In many ways, his behaviour is actually legitimate. But not on the road or on the ski slope. Period.
At this point, I literally have to slam the brakes on the fun.
Sure, we’ve all got our flaws. And it does parents good to live on the edge occasionally. But not in traffic. You also write, «I just hope I don’t encounter any rough edges the next time I’m riding my bike without a helmet.» Better give wood – and your noggin – a good knock then!
Katja Fischer
Senior Editor
Katja.Fischer@digitecgalaxus.chMom of Anna and Elsa, aperitif expert, group fitness fanatic, aspiring dancer and gossip lover. Often a multitasker and a person who wants it all, sometimes a chocolate chef and queen of the couch.
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