Perhaps the easiest way to be a responsible ATV owner/operator is to be brought up as one. Since ATVs are relatively new on the scene, it is safe to say most older ATV owner/operators have brought to the ride things they learned driving other vehicles in diverse conditions. In addition to these habits of driving, many ATVers have not had extensive practice driving "in the wild", as it were. ATV running is not basic street driving. It's a whole new world out there in the woods, or in the sand.
To make sure "the sins of the father are not visited -you get the drift"; talk with the knowledgeable sales reps at Raceway and find out good pointers and tips on driving and generally handling ATVs.
Investing in some safety lessons for your child is a great way to help them learn to ride safely and minimize the risk of accidents. A perfect way to do this would be to invest in a small, kid sized ATV. That is, if you have kids. If you aren't married or have kids, this is a great time to become a Big Brother or Sister and invest some money and quality time in them with an ATV. This way you could learn along with your charge.
Some of the essentials to know about ATVs would be: knowing what and where are all the moving parts on an ATV, what are the minimum tools necessary to have when you're out riding, what can the ATV owner safely fix or change on an ATV, how does the ATV handle under differing conditions, what is the balance and rollover points on you ATV, and safety, safety, safety.
Children ultimately learn by seeing and doing. If they watch you as a responsible ATV owner/operator they will grow up to be responsible, too.
