Seeing kids grow independent is one of the best developmental milestones to achieve. From hearing them utter their first cry, until seeing them explore things, every accomplishment is worth celebrating.
But what if your toddler or preschooler asked for a bike? While safety is parents' number one concern, bikes are also necessary for kids' gross motor skills to develop.
A balance bike is a perfect option to motivate your child to experience another outdoor adventure. So how do you choose a balance bike that's right for your child? Here's a guide:
What is a balance bike?
A balance bike is a specially designed bike that helps young children learn to ride. These bikes have no pedals, and instead, children learn to balance and steer by pushing off the ground with their feet.
Balance bikes are a great way for kids to learn the basics of riding a bike, and they can be used by kids as young as two years old. Many parents choose balance bikes for their kids because they provide a gentle and fun introduction to bike riding.
The benefits of a balance bike
- It teaches them how to balance. This is the most important thing that a balance bike teaches a child. Without balance, they will not be able to ride a bike.
- It gets them outside. Getting fresh air and exercise is important for kids (and adults!).
- It is a great way to bond with your child. Spending time together while they learn how to ride a bike is a great way to create lasting memories.
- It is a great way to teach them about road safety. As they ride around, you can point out objects and dangers to them so that they are aware of their surroundings.
- It is a great way to teach them about bike maintenance. As they ride, they will inevitably have a few flats or other problems. This is a great opportunity to teach them how to fix their bike and take care of it.
How to choose the right balance bike for your child
As a parent, you want to make sure your child has the best possible chance to succeed in life. That means choosing the right balance bike for them to ride.
There are a few things to consider when choosing a balance bike for your child. The first is the size of the bike. Make sure to measure your child’s inseam before you purchase a bike. You don’t want the bike to be too big or too small.
The second thing to consider is the weight of the bike. Again, you don’t want the bike to be too big or too small. A heavier bike will be more difficult for your child to ride, and a lighter bike may not be as sturdy.
The third thing to consider is the type of bike. There are three main types of balance bikes:
The first type is the traditional balance bike. These bikes have two wheels of equal size. They are easy to ride and are a good choice for first-time riders.
The second type is the tricycle balance bike. These bikes have three wheels, with two wheels in the front and one in the back. They are a bit more stable than the traditional balance bike, but they can be more difficult to ride.
The third type is the recumbent balance bike. These bikes have two wheels, but the rider sits in a reclined position. They are the most stable of the three types of bikes, but they can be more difficult to ride.
Once you’ve considered the size, weight, and type of bike, you can then start to look at the features of each bike. Some things to look for include:
- The type of brakes. There are three types of brakes: the hand brake, the foot brake, and the coaster brake. The hand brake is the most common type and is located on the handlebars. The foot brake is located on the pedals, and the coaster brake is located on the rear wheel.
- The type of tires. The two most common types of tires are the air-filled tires and the foam-filled tires. Air-filled tires are the most common type and are the most durable. Foam-filled tires are less durable but provide more cushioning.
- The type of seat. The two most common types of seats are the saddle seat and the step-through seat. The saddle seat is the most common type and is similar to a bike seat. The step-through seat is a less common type, and it has a hole in the middle that allows the child to easily get on and off the bike.
Get in touch with Aussie Baby
Just like learning how to walk, riding a bike can be a whole new experience for your toddler. It will take patience for them to become experts at riding a bike, but with the help of a balance bike, they will enjoy this fun adventure.
Aussie Baby is committed to providing only the best balance bikes for your kids. Visit our website and explore our great range of balance bikes for your preschoolers.