Most toddlers are lively little beings who seem to have an endless amount of energy and a peculiar fascination with anything on wheels. The ultimate plaything for them? A tricycle or a scooter. However, before you rush off to buy one, you should consider crucial elements like your child's size and ability, alongside their age. Most tots don't truly have what it takes to handle a tricycle until they are almost three years old, but strength and coordination are equally vital.
Once your restless little human is ready for some on-the-go action, it's taken upon you to ensure they ride safely. And since that first ride is a landmark moment for both the children and their parents, creating a safe environment for that exciting ride should be the top priority.
Here are some useful tips on how to ensure a safe ride for your toddler while they are on a scooter or a tricycle.
Firstly, it is a good idea to take your tot with you to the store to test-drive the scooter or trike. This allows you to ensure it's a suitable fit and that your little one can comfortably use it. If there is an opportunity, have your child try out a play friend's wheels as well.
Do not anticipate and buy a ride-on toy thinking that your child will eventually grow into it. The age guidelines indicated on the box are there for a reason - to keep your child safe. Also, never assemble a ride-on toy in the same room with your toddler. These toys often come with small parts and screws that could pose a choking hazard to the child.
The next crucial step to ensure safety is buying a helmet that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's safety standards. It should be labeled CPSC-approved, usually on the inside liner. Do away with helmets with protruding non-essential decorations. They could risk the helmet's smooth surface from sliding during a fall, potentially harming your child.
Ensure that your child wears their helmet every time they ride their scooter or trike. This not only protects them presently but also instills a habit that will keep them safe in their future biking adventures. Optional yet beneficial safety gears include knee and elbow pads, especially for those kids who are still working on their coordination skills.
Understand that a helmet does not last forever. You need to replace your child’s helmet if they have a big fall or the strap seems too tight under their chin. Moreover, the initial teaching phase should not be on a driveway, as asphalt is not the place for your child to take spills. Choose a sidewalk next to a grassy area for a softer spot in case of falls.
Always ensure your child asks your permission before they can ride, and set a rule that a grown-up must always supervise them. Your child should never ride barefoot. Closed-toe shoes are better than sandals, particularly on a scooter, as your child requires to kick the pavement for mobility.
Dress your child in brightly colored clothes before going out to ride. Visible clothing for your small one means bigger kids on wheels can easily spot and avoid them. Restrict your child from riding near swimming pools, steps, or hills, including driveways with steep inclines.
Check on the scooter, tricycle, or ride-on toy regularly to ensure the brakes are working properly and the tires are firm. Also, ensure you do periodic fitting checks. If your child has to hunch to reach the handlebars or if their feet are too broad for the scooter base or tricycle pedals, it's time to upgrade the toy.
In conclusion, introducing your toddler to the world of cycling is an exciting time - both for you and for them. Choosing the right toy and creating a safe environment are vital steps in making this introduction an enriching experience. Keep in mind that every child is different, so what works for another child may not necessarily work for yours. When in doubt, always prioritize your child's safety.