Teaching a child to ride a bike

Have you purchased a bike this Christmas and want to know the basics in teaching a child to ride?

Try the following techniques:

Stabilizers

• Try to avoid using stabilizers as they can be relied upon too heavily and the child will be more likely to become nervous if they are removed

Bike height

• Adjust the seat, so that the child can put both feet flat to the floor

Remove the pedals

• Use the bicycle without pedals, (they can be removed) using the cycle as you would a 'hobby horse' until balance and confidence is gained

• The trainee can start off just getting used to the feel of the bicycle, pushing it along and using the brakes

• As the trainee gets used to the feel of the bike and gains confidence in stopping, they can build up speed and lift their legs from the ground for a longer time

Replace the pedals

• Progress on to pedalling. It is common when pedals are replaced for the rider to watch their feet again. Raise seat if necessary.

• Stand in front of the bike and hold on to the handlebars (instructor to walk backwards in a straight line). The technique involves minimum physical contact between trainer and trainee

• It is very important that the trainee looks at you and not at their feet. They must continue to look ahead; progression will be slow to begin with

• Use lots of praise and encouragement and plenty of patience

• Make small advances, keeping the bicycle straight

• Gradually lift one hand for a second or two and replace

• Repeat this exercise gradually taking the hand off longer each time, eventually taking off one hand and then both

Practice

• Do a little each day

• Gradually as the child gains confidence and stays at a slow pace, greater balance and control is achieved. Remember to reinforce keeping the head up, looking ahead and pedal slowly, using the brakes when needed

• Introduce turning

• Trainees with restricted movement may find it easier to get on and off the bicycle by leaning it.