Knowing how to ride a bicycle well is a great way to give your child plenty of outdoor time, exercise, social opportunities, and greater confidence.
The skill of riding a bicycle is comprised of two separate skills—balance and pedaling—done in unison. Most children will benefit from mastering each skill separately before trying to combine them together. Contrary to what you might assume, this does not mean you need to purchase two separate bikes.
Step 1:
Buy (or get a hand-me-down) bicycle that is the largest size your child can safely and comfortably use. Make sure it is not even slightly too small. Buy a new helmet only, and don’t be shy to ask someone for help ensuring it’s the exact right fit. Measure based on your child’s inseam (crotch to floor when wearing sneakers), rather than based on height.
Step 2:
Attach training wheels. Training wheels will give children the confidence they need to practice their pedaling skills without a fear of falling. Adjust the seat to be 1-2” above your child’s inseam. Plenty of time on a tricycle is also a great way to build those leg muscles prior to getting a first bicycle.
Step 3:
Once your child has mastered pedaling, it’s time to learn balance. Remove the training wheels. Remove the pedals. Raise the seat on the bicycle to about 1-2” above your child’s inseam (so that they can only touch the ground with their tiptoes). Choose an area with a long, straight, flat path. Have your child push off and let their legs dangle off to the sides with straight knees. Glide for as long as the bike continues on its own. When it slows down, bring the legs down to push off again.
Step 4:
Once your child is able to glide with steady balance, it’s time to combine both skills together. Put the pedals back on and lower the seat so that it is the same height as your child’s inseam. Children will still need plenty of practice to master the combination of balance and pedaling, but much less so than if they had begun with both at once.
Happy Riding!
Teach Grow Sow 