In a search for a fun, outdoor activity that will tire out an energetic tot? Riding a scooter can be very beneficial for you and your little one. When your toddler heads outside and starts to quickly whiz around, they engage in a great cardio workout. Additionally, just like bikes and tricycles, scooters help kids develop coordination skills, balance and mobility.
A perfect first ride-on toy, toddler scooters offer a fun way to get from A to B. While a scooter’s deck is low enough for easier access, the handlebars provide stability for new riders. The three-wheel options make learning to balance and kick at the same time less daunting.
Moreover, they require less space to ride on, which makes them a better ride than bicycles for smaller, more confined spaces. Being popular among city kids who use them to zip along the sidewalk, mini scooters are also very convenient for parents without a garage or a lot of extra space, especially those that fold up.
At What Age Can My Child Start to Ride a Scooter?
Speaking from experience, parents might get so excited about getting their child on a scooter that they tend to forget to check if the child is ready or not. That may be the most important factor to consider if you don’t want to end up with a frustrated child and cast aside the scooter you most lovingly researched and purchased.
So, how can you tell? You can find some models with a recommended starting age, labelled as a scooter for 2 year old or 3-year-old. However, it’s worth noting that every child is different and develops at their own pace and time. So, numbers might not be the best indicators, but a few other factors like your child’s height, weight and development level.
Most scooters have a minimum height which a child can hold on, steer and navigate properly. Additionally, once your child has mastered walking and running, it will be easier for them to kick a scooter with stability and confidence.
Types of Scooters for Toddlers
The Australian law prohibits children under 12 years old from riding e-scooters. Here are the three types of toddler scooters that are suitable for young kids:
Ride-On Scooters
These are the best for young toddlers still developing gross motor skills. They usually have a removable seat and adjustable handlebars, which allows children to sit on a ride-on scooter and pedal with their feet until they’re ready to use it as a standing scooter. Some models have even a handle for the parent to push the toddler while they sit on it.
Three-Wheel Scooters
A three-wheel glider has two wheels at the front and one at the back. Since this scooter type generally has a wide, stable base, making it easier for toddlers to keep their balance as they scoot along, it’s the best option for 2- and 3-year-olds. Simply put, three-wheelers stabilise the child’s ride, so they don’t have to. Once they have mastered the skill of balance and coordination, that is when a 2-wheel scooter is on the horizon.
Two-Wheel Scooters
Also known as a kick scooter, a 2-wheel glider has one wheel at the front and one at the back. It’s the most common scooter type, especially for older children with advanced balancing skills that can only come with age and experience.
How Do I Choose a Scooter for My Toddler?
Smooth-Gliding Wheels
Riding a scooter with wheels that glide smoothly over sidewalks and driveways isn’t only safer to ride but also more enjoyable. The best toddler scooters offer a stable ride across any terrain, with wheels constructed of sturdy material.
Another thing to consider is wheel size; large wheels provide better stability and speed, while small wheels make a scooter more manoeuvrable and flexible.
Adjustable Handlebars
Since children are constantly growing, buying a scooter with adjustable handlebars will prevent you from buying a new larger scooter every year. Furthermore, they’ll make it easier for your kids to hand their scooter to a younger child or even let other kids use it.
For your child to have the room to fit into the upper handlebar positions, look for a scooter that matches their height at the lowest handlebar setting.
Wide, Non-Slip Deck
A non-slip scooter deck provides more confidence and better safety, increasing the possibility that your kid will ride their scooter for extended periods. Higher tires also make for improved traction.
Your child will also appreciate a deck large enough for two feet since it’ll help them balance better. A wide deck will also help them balance if you decide to push them while they learn to balance.
Strong Yet Lightweight Frame
Weight is another crucial consideration, both for you and your child. Opt for a scooter chassis durable enough to support your tot while being lightweight enough for them to carry. If the frame is lighter, your tot can manoeuvre it more easily.
As you’ll spend many evenings carrying your child’s scooter at the end of a walk or after a birthday party, you’ll also benefit from a more lightweight option. In terms of materials, both carbon fibre and aluminium are sturdy and lightweight.
Foldability
Foldable scooters are very convenient, even if storing and carrying a scooter in general is often easier than a bike by default. Therefore, if you have a choice and are out of storage space, choose the one that folds.
Don’t Forget About Safety!
When riding a scooter, your child should wear safety gear. It’ll protect their soft skulls, elbows and knees. Wearing protective gear reduces injury risk of injuries and accidents by up to 80%. Instil this habit as early as possible, and invest in a high-quality and comfortable helmet so they’ll enjoy wearing it.
