As soon as a child has learned to walk, they move on in big steps. Toys such as rocking horses, ride-on cars and bouncy balls introduce them to a world full of fun, movement and joy of playing. This trains motor skills and coordination. At some point, however, it is time to explore the wide world and find out how to stay safe. The transition to a bicycle is therefore a real challenge for many children, especially as it is accompanied by the fears and expectations of their parents.
Learn to ride a bike
Children's bikes with training wheels are designed to give a child support for as long as they need it. After that, you simply remove the extra wheels and get a normal bike. This sounds convincing at first, but we don't think it's the optimal solution.
Children learn new skills through play. However, many parents do not give their children the feeling that a bicycle is a great new toy. A bicycle with training wheels is usually just a means of transport.
Things are different with a balance bike . You can simply sit on it, push it and lift your legs up once you've got the hang of it. Training wheels aren't necessary. The fear of falling over or not being able to brake doesn't even arise. A child who has learned to move around safely in this way still has enough attention left for road signs, other road users and everything that is important in road traffic. Switching to a bike with pedals is then not difficult.
Riding a balance bike – but properly
A Wheel can be a child-friendly toy, but also more. Carefully consider what is important to you. There is a huge difference between a balance bike with a suspension saddle that looks like a cool motorcycle and a balance bike with all the safety features of a bicycle. To prepare for cycling, a few important details should be considered:
- Brakes: A brake for the rear wheel of the balance bike is standard on high-quality balance bikes. We think the most sensible braking systems are those where you can't get caught on the brake cable or the braking system itself. The fewer opportunities there are to pinch your fingers or hurt yourself on protruding parts, the better. An additional brake on the front wheel requires that the child can handle it. Otherwise, there is a risk of falls.
- Steering: A steering limiter prevents the front wheel from jamming or the child from being thrown off balance by a turn that is too tight. Balance bikes with a steering limiter are therefore safer. Solutions that can be regulated as needed are ideal.
- Security features: A bell, lights and reflectors should be fitted just like on a road-legal bicycle. Reflective clothing and a helmet are also part of the safety equipment. If you are out and about with your child, they should also get their own bike lock so that they can practice using it.
