Every kid is different, but bike riding is something the majority of kids love (who doesn’t like being independent, right?). Similarly, learning how to ride a bike without training wheels is something pioneering and vital for kids. Well, according to research, the right age to learn this skill is between 5 years old to 7 years old. So, if your kid falls in this age bracket, let us help you ease his/her bike riding experience without training wheels!
Prep Them for Riding without Training Wheels
If your kid has been riding a bike with training wheels, he will be accustomed to the sense of security that it brings. For this reason, he won’t show much interest in your new idea, but you must tell him that it’s okay. Remember that your kid will need assurance for this new experience, so be calm and understanding. If he asks questions, answer them all calmly. In the section below, we are sharing more preparation points, including;
- First of all, buy a helmet because your child’s security must be your top priority. Also, when you go helmet shopping, take your child with you. Make him wear the helmet to ensure it fits. The general rule of thumb is choosing a helmet that’s 1-inch above the eyebrows. In addition to a helmet, your child must wear other protective gear, including shin guards, gloves, and elbow pads.
- Before you let your kid ride a bike, check the tires and ensure they are properly inflated. This is because inflated tires promise convenient coasting, a smooth ride, and a safer experience (you can check the tire’s manual for sufficient temperature)
- Don’t turn the riding sessions into a lecture because a fun activity will engage your kid more. Besides, when kids know that an activity is fun, the learning experience will be more convenient. Not to forget, they won’t feel nervous, and feeling confident is essential to ease the transition.
Let’s Start With Teaching!
Walking The Bike Without Pedals
In this first step, you need to detach the pedals as it helps them walk the bike while they sit on the comfy bike seat. When the pedals are off, lower down the seat to ensure the kids’ feet touch the ground and he can keep the feet flat. Letting him touch the ground will make him comfortable, and there will be a sense of security. Last but not least, allow him to walk the bike (nope, don’t ask him to ride). Walking the bike will help him learn the act of balancing, and he will pilot the bike with more confidence. This activity must go on until they gain complete control.
Cruise The Bike With Feet Up
First of all, you need to look for a slight slope (it’s better to find one on grassy ground, we’ll tell you why). When you find the slope, let your kid cruise on the slope, and it will teach him the momentum adjustment. Secondly, he will learn how to balance the bike and himself. When the kid starts cruising down the slope, it’s suggested that you stand at the end of the slope so they feel safe and know that you are there for him (this safety blanket must be there). Lastly, don’t forget to time the cruises down the slope.
Installing The Pedals
When your kid starts cruising for fifteen seconds straight with perfect balance, install the pedals and allow him to ride with pedals on. When it’s the first time, hold on to his side and ask him to start pedalling (if your kid has already mastered balance, pedalling will be convenient for him). Besides, you might have to teach him how to push down one pedal, develop momentum, and balance to move forward (he might topple, but it’s part of the process).
Teaching The Brakes System
Oops, we kept the most important step for the last. Anyhow, when your kid is riding down the road, he needs to know how to stop, and for that, he must understand how the brakes work. To be honest, brakes are a challenge to master, but the SureStop brake system is quite convenient. This is because your kid will only have to grab one brake lever, and the braking function will be distributed over both wheels and reduce the chances of accidents.
Other Tips to Improve Bike-Riding Experience without Training Wheels
– Always ask your kid if he is ready to ride without training wheels. He will be hesitant at first, but once calm, he will tell you the honest answer (kids can get scared by such changes, but you must let them feel at ease)
– Make sure that your kid’s bike is chosen according to his/her height. You might wish to buy a bigger bike, so it can be used for years to come. However, bigger bikes are hard to control. The best idea is to measure their height, communicate it with the bike store salesman, and he/she will show the right bike.
– Always select a secluded park or ground for these practice sessions to ensure kids don’t feel embarrassed if they fall or fail.
– Try to teach in slow and small sessions. If you keep hurrying them, it will overwhelm the kids, and they will lose any interest in riding.
– Allow your kid to enjoy breaks whenever he is tired, and getting him snacks will make him more energetic.
– If your kid gives you a hard time, you must remain patient because scolding him won’t bring anything good.
Wrapping It Up
To summarize, riding a bike without training wheels is an invigorating experience, and it will make your kid feel at the top of the world. Sure, they might be scared at first, but you will see how they enjoy the freedom once you calm them. So, when are you hitting this new milestone with your little one?
Please share your tricks and tips in the comments!
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