BALANCE BIKE BASICS TEACHING YOUR TODDLER TO RIDE

BALANCE BIKE BASICS TEACHING YOUR TODDLER TO RIDE Candice Kloeble

STAGE ONE PRE RIDE PREPARATION Find an Appropriate Sized Bicycle For Your Toddler • Ensure your toddler is well rested and fed before entering a bike shop • Shop around: Try out different styles of bikes and determine which model is best for your child • Ask questions • Stick to your budget

PRE RIDE PREPARATION Safety Considerations & Equipment • Ensure your toddler is properly fitted for a helmet • Adjust the seat height on the bicycle to enable firm footing • Good footwear is important • Dress according to weather conditions • Pack a water bottle and snack

PRE RIDE PREPARATION Plan Your Route • Set out a timeframe • Be realistic in terms of your toddlers skill level • Consider areas where you might encounter riding conditions with increased risk i. e. Traffic Gravel Steep inclines

STAGE TWO THE RIDE Start Moving • Role model safe cycling practices • Let your toddler set the pace • Encourage your toddler • Have fun

THE RIDE Practice • As your toddler gains more experience their skill level increases: walking running & gliding balancing • Caution: increased confidence can mean increased speed • Continue to reinforce safe cycling practices • Try out different environments and terrain

THE RIDE Provide Steady Support • Reassure your toddler after they have had a fall • Offer positive reinforcement as new skills develop • Provide reminders for essential skills such as how to increase and decrease speed

STAGE THREE POST RIDE Relax & Review • Celebrate that you have reached your destination safely • Assist your toddler to store their bike or lock it securely • Rehydrate and enjoy a healthy snack • Evaluate what went well and review areas for improvement