Both a scooter and a bicycle are ideal exercise equipment for a child. Young riders are less likely than their “computer” peers to catch colds, their muscles receive sufficient physical activity, and their nervous system becomes more stable thanks to regular walks in the fresh air.
These types of transport allow you to direct the child’s activity in a constructive direction, strengthen the musculoskeletal system and develop the child’s spatial thinking precisely at the age when the foundation for this is laid.
In this review, we will tell you what models of children's tricycles and scooters there are, how they differ, and which model will be the best for your baby.
Scooter for a child
Different types of scooters have their own characteristics, but in general their design remains the same: the steering wheel, frame, foot platform and wheels. Some children's scooters are also equipped with brakes. The owner of the scooter sets it in motion simply by pushing off the ground with his foot, while the other is on the platform. This method of transportation is an excellent way to develop children's motor skills.
At what age should I buy a scooter for my kid?
There are models for different ages:
- from 1 year to 3 years: three-wheeled scooter - its stable design helps the baby maintain balance, but at the same time develop the vestibular system and get the joy of riding. There are three-wheeled scooters, in which one wheel is located in the front and two in the back, and also vice versa.
- from 3 to 5 years: either a two-wheeled or a three-wheeled scooter may be suitable, depending on the child’s preparation.
- from 5 to 10 years: two-wheeled scooter designed for heavier loads.
Kids tricycle
There are four-wheeled models of children's bicycles - these are rather bulky devices, from which children quickly outgrow. A two-wheeled children's bicycle is not suitable for every age - to ride it you must already have good coordination skills. A tricycle is the optimal transport for a small child. It has a comfortable and wide seat, is stable while driving and is often equipped with seat belts to help your baby stay even better in the seat. Many bicycles for toddlers are equipped with a backrest, a basket for toys and a canopy that protects from direct sunlight.
The main thing when choosing a bicycle is to decide on its size, because a bicycle that is too small will cause the baby to hunch over, and a bicycle that is too large will cause injury. When a child is just starting to learn to ride a bike, it is important that they can place their feet firmly on the floor.
Kids scooter or bicycle: how to choose and not make a mistake with the choice
The main advantage of a bicycle over a scooter is that it has two pedals, and accordingly the development of the child’s legs occurs more evenly. Therefore, children's doctors recommend that parents who decide to buy a children's scooter teach their child to use both legs alternately to push off - this way the paired muscles develop more evenly, and the spine is not at risk of curvature.
On the other hand, a scooter develops a sense of balance better than a tricycle, since it is more difficult to balance on it. It is safer (falling off a bicycle is more painful), it is more convenient to take it out of the house and transport it; it takes up less space in the apartment and weighs less. A children's scooter with an adjustable handle height can be purchased for growth.
What is better to buy for a child: a bicycle or a scooter?
Experts recommend both types of transport for children - it depends on the child’s preferences, as well as age. The best sequence for mastering vehicles is as follows:
- 1-3 years: A tricycle – preferably with a push handle – is best for this age.
- 3-6 years old: give the child the opportunity to try both types of transport - let him choose for himself!
- 6-12 years: at this age you can buy a full-fledged two-wheeled children's bicycle or a more complex scooter (with a hand brake, reinforced frame, full rear and front shock absorption, etc.), including a stunt scooter for children.
Children's scooter and bicycle: what to look for when buying
Many of the nuances that need to be taken into account when purchasing are the same for children's scooters and bicycles. Let's list the most important points:
Wheels
They can be plastic or rubber. Models with rubberized wheels are more advanced. They allow you to better overcome obstacles and allow your child to feel more comfortable when riding.
A children's scooter or bicycle with luminous wheels is a convenient solution if a child rides in the evenings: this way he is clearly visible to both parents and other people.
Wheel diameter also matters. Small wheels are better for flat surfaces. To ride on uneven asphalt or dirt roads, a scooter or bicycle must be equipped with large wheels. Such models include, for example, the Raven Celia 200 mm scooter (where 200 mm is the wheel size). The scooter is equipped with a hand brake, has a folding aluminum frame and is suitable for children aged five years and older.
Brake
In children's scooters, an easy-to-use foot brake is most often used. More complex models are equipped with a hand brake on the steering wheel - this is a classic lever, pressing which stops the wheels. A bicycle may also have foot or hand brakes, or a combination of the two.
Frame
There are children's scooters and bicycles with plastic and metal (usually aluminum) frames. A lightweight plastic model is an option for a very small rider. Models with a metal frame last longer, are much more durable, and reach higher speeds.
Grips
Pay attention to the shape and texture of the handle grips - it should be comfortable for the child to hold, they should not slip out.
Availability of folding mechanism
A folding children's scooter or bicycle is very convenient, because then it will be much easier to take it with you on a trip, and it will not take up much space in the apartment. A good example of such a model is the folding scooter with shock absorption Raven Straight Pro, which is equipped with large 200 mm wheels and a hand brake.
Appearance
This is also an important factor in choosing a scooter or bicycle, because its owner should like it. There are models specifically designed for girls, for example, this scooter model with a bright print and LED-lit wheels.
Handelbar adjustment
The ability to adjust the height of the vehicle is a very important option, since such a model can be transformed as the child grows. For example, the RavenStraightBlack/Silver 200mm model is suitable for both children from five years old and teenagers - thanks to its durable design, large wheels and a good range of steering wheel adjustment. “Bike height” can also be changed by adjusting the position of the saddle and handlebars.
Parting words for parents before buying a bicycle or scooter
To ensure that familiarization with the laws of gravity does not cause problems for your child, we advise you to purchase protective equipment: a helmet, gloves, knee pads, elbow pads, and protective pads. It is definitely worth teaching your child to brake correctly, avoid obstacles, and group when falling.
The child should be told that, having moved from the category of “pedestrians” to the rank of “driver”, he should behave responsibly: do not drive onto the roadway, ride only in safe places, cross the pedestrian crossing on foot, moving the scooter/bicycle manually.
Having mastered the simplest rules of the road, your child will be able to get great pleasure from the process of riding!
Check out the bikes, scooters, balance bikes, roller skates, longboards and other riding equipment we offer
• By purchasing from the Ergohiir.ee e-store, you will receive the goods at the best prices on the market and in the best possible time
• We selected the best models in terms of quality and price, all models on sale were tested and researched by us.
• We bring the goods to the country directly from the manufacturers or an official distributor, which allows us to offer both good prices and stable deliveries, and to offer some models that cannot be found on competitors. Other stores also buy from us
• All goods are subject to a 24-month claim submission period and the right to refuse the goods within 14 days (for private individuals)
Having trouble deciding which bike or scooter to buy for your child? Use our free consultation - writing an e-mail at info@ergohiir.ee or calling 58109787 or using the online chat on the ErgoHiir website.