Helmet Hero Slides
Helmet Heroes
Being Safe at APE
I go to APE class.
APE is a fun time to move my body and play with my friends.
Sometimes, we ride bikes.
Riding a bike makes me feel fast and strong!
First, I put on my helmet.
"First helmet, then bike."
My helmet protects my brain.
My brain is very important. It helps me think, talk, and play!
How does it feel?
It feels snug on my head.
The strap stays under my chin.
Snug means it is doing its job!
I can ask for help.
If the helmet is hard to put on, I can say:
"Help, please!"
Now I am ready!
With my helmet on, I am a safe biker. My teacher is proud of me.
I am a Helmet Hero!
Helmet Safety Poster
Helmet Check
Name:
Date:
1
Pick a Helmet
Find one that fits your head.
2
Put it On
Make sure it is level (not too far back).
3
Snap the Buckle
Listen for the "CLICK" sound!
4
Check the Straps
Should be snug under your chin.
5
Ready to Ride!
You are a Helmet Hero. Have fun!
Ask a teacher if you need help with the buckle!
Teacher Facilitation Guide
Teacher Resource
Helmet Heroes Facilitation Guide
Setting: 8:1:1 Classroom / APE
Instructional Context
This social story and visual support system is designed for students in an 8:1:1 setting who may experience resistance, anxiety, or sensory challenges when wearing a bicycle helmet during Adapted Physical Education (APE). The goal is to build a positive association with the helmet, framing it as a tool that enables fun activities rather than a restrictive rule.
Facilitating the Social Story
Pre-Activity
Present the Helmet Hero Slides on the Smartboard 15–20 minutes before heading to the gym or bike area. This provides a predictable transition cue.
Interactive Reading
- Pause on the "Brain Protection" slide. Ask students to point to their heads.
- Ask students to practice saying "Help, please!" when viewing Slide 7.
- Encourage a "thumbs up" during the final slide to build excitement.
Prompting Hierarchy
Visual Prompt: Point to the helmet or the poster step.
Verbal Prompt: "Remember, first helmet, then bike."
Gestural Prompt: Mimic putting on a helmet.
Partial Physical: Guide the helmet toward their head.
Using the Helmet Check Poster
Location
Post at eye-level in the bike storage area or transition zone.
Check-In
Have students physically touch each step on the poster as they complete it.
Wait Time
Allow 5–10 seconds of processing time after each step before prompting.
Troubleshooting & Sensory Tips
Sensory Aversion
If the strap is the issue, try a "strap sleeve" made of soft fleece. If the weight is an issue, start with 30-second "helmet trials" without the bike during downtime.
Resistance/Refusal
Maintain the "Premack Principle" (First/Then). "First helmet, then bike." Do not engage in power struggles; simply point back to the rule on the slide or poster.