It is never too early to start teaching your toddler how to ride a scooter. In fact, it is best to start them young so they can master the skills more easily.
If you’re looking for a complete guide on how to teach a toddler to ride a scooter, you’re in the right place! This guide will cover everything from choosing the right Scooter to preparing your toddler for their first ride.
By the end of this guide, you will have complete knowledge of teaching a toddler to ride a scooter safely and confidently.
How To Teach A Toddler To Ride A Scooter
There are several things you need to do in order to teach a toddler to ride a scooter. So we will cover each one of them in detail.
Step 1: Choose The Right Scooter
The first step is to choose the right Scooter for your toddler. There are many different types of scooters on the market, so it is important to choose one that is age and size appropriate.
Most toddler scooters have three wheels, making them more stable and easier to ride. However, some two-wheeled scooters also come with training wheels, which can be removed once your toddler is more confident. However, we recommend 3 wheels scooters only for kids aged up to 7 years old.
When choosing a scooter, make sure to consider the following factors:
- The age of your toddler: If you want 2, 3, or 4 years old to start using a scooter, make sure you buy one that is designed for toddlers age, like the scooter ideas guiding with separate articles.
- The weight of your toddler: Heavier toddlers will need a sturdier scooter that can support their weight.
- The height of your toddler: Taller toddlers will need a scooter with an adjustable handlebar so they can comfortably ride it.
- The ability of your toddler: If your toddler is still learning how to balance on a scooter, you can get the Scooter with a foldable seat option, giving them extra stability.
Once you’ve considered all these factors, you can narrow your choices and choose the perfect Scooter for your toddler.
Step 2: Wear Them A Safety Gears
The next step is ensuring your toddler is wearing the proper safety gear. This includes a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads.
Helmets are essential for protecting your toddler’s head in case of a fall. Look for a helmet that is certified by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) and fits snugly on your toddler’s head.
Elbow pads and knee pads will help protect your toddler’s joints in case of a fall. Look for pads made of soft, flexible materials that fit snugly on your toddler’s arms and legs.
However, if you’re teaching them how to ride a scooter inside the house, you can forgo the safety gear since there is no risk of falling.
Step 3: Prepare The Scooter
Now that you have the right Scooter and the proper safety gear, it’s time to prepare the Scooter for your toddler.
If you’re using a three-wheeled scooter, ensure all wheels are inflated to the proper pressure. If using a two-wheeled scooter, ensure the training wheels are securely attached.
Next, adjust the handlebar, so it is at a comfortable height for your toddler. They should be able to stand up straight with their arms fully extended when they are holding onto the handlebar.
If your toddler is still learning to balance, you can adjust the handlebar to be closer to the ground. This will give them extra stability.
Finally, check the brakes to make sure they are working properly. If the Scooter has a handbrake, ensure it is easy to reach and squeeze. If the Scooter has a footbrake, make it easy to press down with your foot.
Step 4: Teach Them How To Stand On The Scooter
Now it’s time to start teaching your toddler how to ride the Scooter. The first step is to teach them how to stand on the Scooter.
If you’re using a three-wheeled scooter, have your toddler stand in the middle of the Scooter with their feet shoulder-width apart. Then, have them hold onto the handlebar and gently push down on the Scooter with their feet to get it moving.
If you’re using a two-wheeled scooter, have your toddler stand in the middle of the Scooter with their dominant foot forward. Then, have them hold onto the handlebar and gently push down on the Scooter with their non-dominant foot to get it moving.
Make sure you keep moving the Scooter back and forth, so your toddler doesn’t get too far from you.
Step 5: Teach Them How To Stop
The next step is to teach your toddler how to stop the Scooter. If the Scooter has a handbrake, show them how to squeeze the brake lever to stop the Scooter.
If the Scooter has a footbrake, show them how to press down on the brake pedal to stop the Scooter.
Make sure they practice this step several times, so your toddler gets comfortable with using the brakes.
Step 6: Teach Them How To Turn
The next step is to teach your toddler how to turn the Scooter. Teach your toddler how to turn the Scooter slowly using the handlebar and leaning the Scooter in the turning direction.
This is important because it will help them avoid obstacles while riding the Scooter.
Step 7: Practice, Practice, Practice!
The best way for your toddler to learn how to ride a scooter is to practice, practice, practice!
Start by practicing in a wide open space, such as a park or your backyard. Once your toddler gets comfortable riding in a straight line, you can start practicing turns and stops.
Try to teach your toddler indoors in an empty room if you want to keep them safe.
Conclusion
Teaching your toddler how to ride a scooter is a fun and easy way to get them active. By following these simple steps, you’ll have your toddler riding like a pro in no time!
After reading this guide, I hope you don’t need to search again for how to teach a toddler to ride a scooter and feel more confident to give it a go.