Riding a Bike

Once you have selected and appropriate sized bicycle for your child’s age and height, it is advisable that they begin with stabilizers also known as training wheels. This helps your child to develop their balance and become confident with the new features of a bicycle. You will find that the majority of children’s bicycles come with stabilizers attached.

To begin with your child will need a Helmet and Pads Set! Ideally, it would be easiest for your child to practise on a flat path or safe flat driveway where there is no traffic or hazards. When using a bicycle with stabilizers a child will need supervision to ensure they remain at a safe speed, as often the bike can easily topple over if a child turns a corner too fast, and weight is transferred from the back wheel to the training wheel, which is significantly smaller.  It is essential that stabilisers are fitted correctly and are in good working order. Check your child’s bicycle frequently, to check everything is safe and working effectively.

As your child becomes more confident with balancing, steering, breaking and pedalling, the stabilisers can be raised slightly. Sometimes, especially if your child is anxious about having the stabilisers removed, it may be best to adjust them without telling your child! This will allow your child to slowly improve their balance without feeling anxious or losing confidence. As your child learns to balance and improves their control of the bike, the stabilisers can be raised again, until eventually; there is not need for them.

When the child is confident to try riding without stabilisers, it is essential that they are supervised closely and offered support and encouragement. The use of stabilisers works well as it allows children to practise and develop skills more independently, especially if they live in a quiet cul-de sac or have a large flat garden.