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Riding a bike is a skill that can be fun for all ages.  This is an activity that can allow a family to spend time together, enjoy the beautiful weather outside, and stay active for a healthy lifestyle.  This is also an activity that can cause a great deal of frustration if a child is not given the tools to be successful.  Bike riding is a complex task that requires multiple skills, such as pedaling, steering, and balance.    Here are the steps that can help your child become a successful bike rider with less frustration:  

1.  When your child is young, start with a scoot toy where your child sits on it and pushes the toy forward with his/her feet.  This introduces the concepts of steering and forward mobility without the need for pedaling or balance.   Scoot toys come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes - just be sure to pick one that fits your child well. 

2.  Next is a tricycle or a bike with training wheels - it needs to be very stable. This introduces pedaling along with steering but does not require the balance aspect.  

 

3.  Next is a balance bike or a bike without the pedals.  (The pedals can easily be removed from a regular bike.)  The bike should be at a height that allows the child's feet to easily touch the ground flat footed.  This will work on steering and balance without the requirement of pedaling.  Encourage your child to push with his/her feet to get momentum but then pick up his/her feet to coast.  

 

 

4.  This final step is where everything is put together - balance, steering, and pedaling!  Your child will likely need some help holding the bike while getting on.  Start on a gently downward sloping hill so pedaling takes minimal effort.  Move to a smooth, flat surface for slightly increased effort for pedaling.  

 

The proper fit of the bike is essential.  Here are the guidelines for proper fit:

  • Seat height should allow toes to touch the ground
  • When downward foot is at the lowest point of the pedaling cycle, the knee should still be slightly bent.
  • Tires should be inflated to the recommended pressure printed on the tires.

 

And...  Don't Forget Safety!!  Wearing a helmet is essential for your child's safety.  Please be sure to find a helmet that fits your child well.  The helmet itself should be comfortably snug, and the chin strap should be snug as well.  If the helmet moves when secured, it is too loose.

 

With a properly fitted bike, the last component to riding a bike is confidence.  This will take time and a lot of attempts before truly being an independent bike rider!  So, be encouraging and supportive while your child learns this complex task!

 

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