Support your child to learn to ride a bike
Being able to ride a bike is an exciting skill to have, however the learning process can be a daunting experience for your child as well as you. The following tips and advice are worth considering to help the learning experience go a little more smoothly.
What can be difficult?
Learning to ride a bike can be challenging as there are lots of different skills needed such as balance, coordination, stamina, and confidence. Fear of falling or past negative experience can also make it difficult for some children to ride. It’s important to begin with small, easy steps and add more as your child is ready.
Top tips for learning to ride a bike
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Start by teaching your child to ride on a familiar and appropriately sized bike. If you are unsure what size you need, many bicycle stores will give you good advice.
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Purchase safety accessories. A cycling helmet is essential; wearing knee and elbow pads can help your child feel less upset when they fall at first. Teach your child to be independent in putting on and taking off the helmet and accessories.
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Dressing your child in appropriate and comfortable clothing (e.g. clothing that will not get caught on the pedals or chain) and choose shoes or trainers that fit securely and stay on the foot.
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Removing the pedals teaches balance skills and helps if the child keeps trying to lift their feet to pedal, however most learners can go through the first steps with the pedals attached without any problems.
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Lower the seat so that your child’s feet are able to rest flat on the floor.
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Hold/stabilise your child rather than the bike. A handling belt can be a useful piece of equipment to purchase as it gives a constant holding point at the child’s waist. It also helps your child develop “self-righting” skills.
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Try not to use stabilisers as these do not teach balance.
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If you hold the back of the seat or run beside the bike, be honest if you are not holding on. If your child falls when they think you’re supporting them, it can reduce their trust and confidence.
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Before you begin a run, tell your child that you will let go once they look steady. When they are steady, before you let go, tell them again that you are going to do this. Make sure they stay steady before you release and then keep supporting them until they can do the skill well on their own
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When your child is learning to ride a bike, they will fall. Be ready to comfort, cheerlead and bandage - and possibly to wait for another day.
Ideas for activities which help develop the skills needed to ride a bike
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Any activities which work on balance e.g. walking along a line, hopscotch, musical statues, yoga for children.
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Any activities which work on coordination e.g. skipping, throwing and catching, walking like an animal, obstacle courses.