My daughter always wears hers and I always wear mine. I didn't always do so, and it felt hypocritical to be insisting that she wear hers when I didn't but we've both had a couple of falls (not serious but painful) and so neither of us now mounts up without one. But I echo all those who say it is important to get one that FITS! Mine used to be too long in the back and was so uncomfortable that I was tipping forwards all the time. Now with a well-fitting one I forget I'm wearing it. it also helps that the majority of the kids on our yard wear them - or else their parents don't let them ride - so she's hardly in a minority. We all ride with a hat, don't we, even when "just" schooling or hacking, so why the big deal over a BP? Yes, you can go 99.999% of the time without a bad fall, but its the 0.001% that can seriously injure you - and horses can throw a hissy fit whenever, not just when jumping or cantering. It's all down to personal preference at the end of the day, but if you really want your child to wear one, then stick to the "No BP - no riding" rule and see how quickly she comes round!