Learning to ride a bike can be an important milestone for any child and all parents want to be there for it. While it can be a frightening experience to begin with, it is one that your child will never forget. Here are some things to take into account when teaching your tot to ride their first bike:
Right equipment
Whether it’s time to take off those trainer wheels or go for a much bigger bike, you need to ensure that your child is properly equipped for what’s ahead.Make sure they have all the necessary safety gear from helmets to elbow and knee pads. They may protest initially but any complaints are worth the prevention of more serious injuries.
Stand by the bike’s side
This is the most common technique of teaching your child how to ride a bike, and also the most effective. Get your little one to hold the bar, walking along and practising on pulling both brakes. While this may seem strange at the beginning, it is an important foundation that helps your child feel more in control.
Stay away from pedals and saddle
The more your child feels in control of their bike, the more confident they will feel eventually riding it. Another teaching method that some parents use to give their tot’s more confidence is by insisting they use their bike as a scooter initially. This can made possible by removing the pedals from your child’s bike and dropping the height of their saddle. This will not only help your little one worry less about wobbling but will help boost them towards the next step.
One pedal at a time
Once your child has scooting sussed and can go a good distance without putting down a foot, they are ready for the next step. Most experts recommend refitting a pedal on your youngster’s leading leg and allow them to continue with the scooting. Not only does this help build your tot’s confidence, it means they will be able to scoot for longer distances as their control grows.
Final step
With pedals back on the bike, it’s time to get pedalling. You can support your child initially by holding their back or shoulder and walking alongside them as they start pedalling. When you think they're ready (sometimes when they’re not aware), let go of your little one and let them cycle to their heart’s content.
Even though they will probably fall a lot at the beginning, with a little practice, your tot will be cycling everywhere in no time.
