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Hard-headed advice for helmet-less kid

DEAR ABBY: As a law-enforcement officer, I would like to comment on your reply to "Overprotective Mom." I agree with your solution to have the boy who wouldn't wear his bike helmet because it was "uncool" visit a facility that treats people with traumatic brain injuries. However, you missed a golden opportunity to remind parents that they are the parents, and because they are responsible for their child's safety, they are in charge!

DEAR ABBY:

As a law-enforcement officer, I would like to comment on your reply to "Overprotective Mom." I agree with your solution to have the boy who wouldn't wear his bike helmet because it was "uncool" visit a facility that treats people with traumatic brain injuries. However, you missed a golden opportunity to remind parents that

they

are the parents, and because they are responsible for their child's safety,

they

are in charge!

What has happened to plain old "parenting"? Time and again, I see children make their own rules because the parents have shrugged off the responsibility of parenting. You should have told them to tell their child that if he won't wear a helmet, his bike will be taken away until he does.

- Bill in Bartlesville, Okla.

DEAR BILL: You and many readers are right. I did overlook the issue of parenting in my reply. Mea culpa! Read on:

DEAR ABBY: Have "Overprotective Mom" ask her son if he thinks firefighters, fighter pilots, police officers and football players are "uncool." They all wear helmets!

- James in Hastings, Neb.

DEAR ABBY: Patients cannot be used as exhibits, even with the best of intentions. It would be unethical and also illegal. A better option would be to contact the injury-prevention office at a local children's hospital and ask for tips. If your readers don't live near one, there are websites filled with helpful information.

- Laurie in Dallas

DEAR ABBY: It's true that there is no state code law in Texas regarding bicycle helmets, but many municipalities, including Dallas, have ordinances that require riders to wear them. That mother should check her city code.

- Concerned in Texas

DEAR ABBY: "Overprotective" should let her son choose a "cool" helmet. Serious bikers are cool and will be supportive. The boy should decorate it with hot stickers or whatever he wishes. If that doesn't work, then take the bike away. It's the kind of cause-and-effect discipline that really works.

- Barbara in Rumford, Maine