Learning To Ride A Bike Before Preschool

While no two children are the same, most parents start teaching their child to ride a bike much later than is actually necessary. Parents may feel they are protecting their child by waiting until they are "ready," but the truth is most kids will benefit from an early start and this actually eases the process for both child and parent.

As children get older they develop a more refined fear mechanism that leads to fear failure and risk. A child between the ages of 2-4 doesn't process these emotions in the same way and they are usually not an obstacle for learning to ride. Not so for older kids who fear they will disappoint their parents, not measure up to their classmates or just not be able to learn how to ride.

Most kids in preschool have the necessary motor skills to learn to ride a bicycle. They're emotional development makes them excellent candidates for learning to ride a bike, but parents sometimes don't understand what's really required to make the process a success. Buying a bike with training wheels from the local discount or toy store can be a recipe for disappointment for most young children. These bikes generally weigh in at around 20 lbs. That's an awful lot of weight for a kid under age five.

When a child is ready to ride, the best method is to use a balance bike. These bicycles, also known as run bikes or walking bikes are designed for toddlers and preschool age children. The bikes can weigh as little as 6 lbs and have no pedals, sprockets or chains. The innovative design emphasizes learning balance and steering first. Kids just propel themselves with their feet instead of pedaling, simplifying the process.

Parents are often surprised just how quickly kids are ready to use a pedal bike after they learn to ride on the balance bike. It comes naturally to them since they've mastered balance first.

By: Kellog Vanderhague

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If your child is just starting out on a balance bike and under the age of four, take a look at the Mini Glider. It's a smart, well-made bike that will last.