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Increasing a child's developing motor skills is an added benefit.
Because you want your toddler or pre-schooler to benefit, and at the
same time have lots of fun, here are several buying tips for that first
riding toy:
A test drive before purchase is always the best way to see if what you
are considering is the right riding toy for your individual child. Let
your child try out several big wheels and tricycles to see what works
best. You don't have to buy on the first shopping trip. Take notes on
what seems to work best. Then, if you can find what you've chosen online
at a better price, that will be an option.
Children
younger than 3 don't usually have the balance or coordination to ride a
traditional tricycle. The center of gravity on one of these trikes is
almost always high, and they can be fairly "tippy." For a younger child,
look for a smaller three wheeler that is low to the ground and that has
a removable bar on the back so you can assist with balance and forward
motion. When your child is ready to ride without help, the back bar
should be easy to remove.
Unless the bike you are looking at is truly adjustable, a bike to "grow
into" will be a disappointment when new. Consider the manufacturer's age
and weight recommendations, but look also at your child's legs. Some
children have shorter legs than others, and the major requirement is
that feet can reach the pedals.
If your child's feet can reach the pedals, also check to be sure that
her knees don't hit the handle bars.
Run your hands carefully over the entire bike. There should be no sharp
points or edges to cut small hands or legs, and there should be no
moving parts that could pinch a finger.
If you will be storing your child's big wheel bike or tricycle, be aware
that sturdy, all metal bikes will inevitably rust if left out in the
weather. A heavy duty plastic bike may be a better investment if the toy
will not be stored under cover.
The most highly regarded brands of big wheel tricycles and traditional
trikes for the younger child are Fisher-Price, Huffy, Kettler, Little
Tikes, Radio Flyer and Schwinn. If you stay with these brands you should
not be disappointed.
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