You’ve undoubtedly seen the omnipresent balancing bike if you’re a parent (or grandmother) of a toddler or preschooler. You’re likely to see a balance bike when you go to the playground, take a walk around the neighbourhood, or go to a playdate. Balance bikes, also called push bicycles or run bicycles are pedal-free bikes made for children under the age of eight. Children can begin riding a balance bike quickly as they can stroll and have adequate motor skills (usually around 18 months).
Balance bicycles are not tricycles because they have two wheels and are intended to be used as real bicycles rather than toys. Consider a pre-bike or scoot-on toy instead if your child isn’t yet 18 months old or isn’t ready for a balanced bike. Balance is crucial when learning to ride, and a balanced bicycle assists children in developing and mastering this vital skill. Plus, kids who learn on a balance bike are more likely to skip tricycles and stabilisers and jump right onto a pedal bike when ready.
Why Do You Need A Balance Bike For Your Toddler (or Preschooler)?
A balanced bicycle is not only entertaining but also aids in developing gross motor skills, builds confidence, and facilitates the transition to a pedal bike. Here are a few reasons to get a balanced bicycle for your toddler if they don’t already have one.
Development of gross motor skills
This is the most underappreciated, but most importantly, the benefit of a balanced bike. A mother is always looking for developmentally appropriate materials and toys for her child.
A balanced bicycle is one of the best instruments for helping your child develop gross motor skills. According to Kid Sense Child Creation, learning balance and coordination is vital for injury prevention, self-regulation, and building a basis for future fine motor skill development.
Balance bicycles also aid in the development of core muscle endurance and strength.
Transitioning to a pedal bike is simple
You all have vivid memories of learning to ride a bike, which isn’t always pleasant. You often fell, hit your heads, and ended up with a bloody mouth on your first ride without training wheels.
Children who begin on a balance bike usually progress quickly to a pedal bike, cutting the exercise wheels completely. Kids who begin riding a balance bike at an early age (between 18 and 24 months) frequently ride a pedal bike without training wheels by age three. The balance cycle guides kids about balance and movement while providing a safe foundation for understanding to swing a pedal bike.
Exercise
You’ve all heard about the epidemic of childhood obesity in the United States. Obesity and inactivity are alarmingly high among children. Fortunately, when it comes to young children, activity is viewed as “fun” rather than “exercise.” This is especially true when riding a bicycle. Another advantage is that riding a balance bike expels some of a toddler’s boundless energy.
Self-confidence
Riding the balance bicycle is the only thing that causes puffing out the kid’s little chest. He beams with pride every time he hangs off a “ledge” or a “jump” or manages to coast ten feet without stopping.
Conclusion
A decent balanced bicycle, on the other hand, may be used by a youngster for years before being handed down to a sibling in good shape. Balance bikes are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly purchase. Even after a child has graduated to a pedal bike, they may still enjoy riding balance bikes at a BMX track or performing tricks in the backyard.
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