You may be hearing a lot about balance bikes in Australia. If so, you may then be thinking about whether your child is ready for this device. The first thing to remember is that each child is unique. They have their own physical abilities, temperament, and learning curve. The second thing to remember is that kids will always surprise you.
You can easily start your child as a toddler, as early as 18 months. However, most parents opt for starting between 2 ½ and 5 years. Observations show that most children progress through four steps: walking with the bike between their legs; sitting on the saddle and walking; sitting and running; and sitting, running, and gliding (lifting their feet).
Stages of Development
Each stage may take its own time to develop and progress but here are some generalities we have found.
- Stand and Walk – Somewhere between ages 18 months and 3 years at the first introduction of the best balance bike in Australia the child will straddle the frame and hold the handles walk with it. It may take some encouragement or suggestions. Some kids will hop on the seat and walk. No matter the start age, this is generally the longest phase. When they are comfortable, the child will go from just standing to move around. It will probably be a tour of the kitchen or play area and then move to larger and longer areas.
- Sit and Walk – This usually follows the stand and walk and the child will realize that it is more fun to prop on the seat. It also involves learning that running is even better than walking. Children often learn by observation, so if they see other kids on balance bikes, they may simply pick up and go. Based on the child's personality, you will need to decide whether it is a good idea to encourage advancing or not.
- Sit, Run and Balance – This will happen in kids between the ages of 2 and 4. Once they master balance, you had better wear your running shoes 24/7. If you think they moved fast when they were crawling, now they have wheels and have figured out how to glide across the floor or the driveway.
- Exploration – Once the kiddo figures out how to steer and propel, they will be moving as fast and far as they can. Realize that at this age, they have little or no sense of safety or danger.
Transitioning
Based on height, dexterity, and desire, these stages can vary in time. The next logical step will be transitioning to a pedal bike. The good news is that since they have already learned the difficult part, balance, this will be smoother and you won't need to deal with training wheels.
Studies show that regular exercise as children increases their chances of being active adults, which can lead to better health and interactions with others. To think it can all start with something as simple as a balance bike.