November 2023 - Teaching kids to ride a bicycle.JPG

Teaching your kids to ride a Bicycle

School holidays are fast approaching. There’s no better time than now to teach your kids how to ride.

Teaching kids to ride a bicycle can be a rewarding experience. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you teach them:

Choose the right bike: Start by selecting a suitable bike for your child. It should be the right size, with their feet able to touch the ground while sitting on the saddle. Visit your nearest Bicycle Centre store and find the perfect bike for your child.

Find a safe location: Pick a spacious and safe location for the bike riding lessons, such as an empty parking lot or a quiet neighborhood street with minimal traffic.

Begin with balance: Encourage your child to straddle the bike with both feet on the ground. Have them practice balancing by lifting their feet slightly and rolling forward for short distances. They can put their feet down to stop or regain balance.

Teach pedalling: Once they feel comfortable with balance, introduce pedalling. Ask them to place their feet on the pedals and push off with one foot to gain momentum. Gradually guide them to use both feet on the pedals and pedal in a circular motion.

Practice steering and turning: Teach your child how to steer the bike by leaning their body and turning the handlebars gently. Start with wide turns and progress to sharper turns as they gain confidence.

Encourage looking ahead: Remind your child to look forward while riding instead of focusing on their feet or the ground. This helps with balance and promotes awareness of their surroundings.

Maintain a positive environment: Offer encouragement and praise your child's efforts throughout the learning process. Let them know that making mistakes is normal and part of the learning experience.

Gradual progression: As your child becomes more comfortable and proficient, gradually increase the complexity of the riding environment. Introduce slight inclines, obstacles, and varying surfaces to build their confidence and skills.

Practice regularly: Consistency is key. Encourage your child to practice riding regularly to reinforce their newfound skills and build muscle memory.

Safety first: Always prioritize safety. Ensure your child wears a properly fitted helmet, and teach them basic traffic rules, such as stopping at intersections and looking both ways before crossing roads.

Remember, every child learns at their own pace, so be patient and supportive throughout the process. Celebrate their progress and enjoy this milestone achievement together!