From celebrities to your next door neighbours, it seems no one is able to resist the charm of scooters for kids. Sarah Jessica Parker (famous for her role as the all-time-favourite columnist in an American sitcom, Sex and the City) is just one of the many celebrities known for enjoying walks with her two daughters and their scooters. On the other side of the ocean, David Beckham was spotted strolling on a rainy day in London accompanied by his youngest child, daughter Harper, mastering her scooter ride.
So, what is it that makes scooters for kids such a fast growing trend? It is the freedom these ride-on-toys give both parents and their kids. If you can’t think of a better way to improve your daily stroll with your kids, this is the toy you should consider buying. Not only will scooters give your kids the ability to keep up with the speed of your brisk walks, they will also provide them with the opportunity to enhance their motor skills and physical development as a whole.
You may think only older kids are able to control scooters better, however the number of scooters designed for younger kids is increasing. There are many brands selling scooters for kids as young as toddlers, so once kids learn how to walk, they’re set for using this toy which turns walking and moving into a fun activity.
When buying a scooter, there are certain things you have to pay attention to, making sure it all stays fun and games. The age of your kid is important for choosing the right scooter. According to this criterion, scooters for kids differ in design. The younger the child, the bigger the platform and number of wheels per toy.
For kids aged 2-3 (who still have to learn a thing or two more about balancing), it is best to choose a four-wheeled scooter. Once proper balance is acquired, you can go for the three-wheeled scooter which is more moveable. Older three-wheeled designs have one wheel at the front, and two at the back, but latest designs offer the opposite – two wheels at the front and one at the back, as it was proved this is much better for optimal mobility. For kids older than 3, including those with riding skills, the best choice is the standard two-wheel-scooter.
Wheel thickness is another property to have an eye on because it affects the speed – the thicker the wheel, the slower the scooter. Your child’s height is as crucial as the age, so when you decide on a specific model, check if it is height-appropriate by positioning your child in an upright posture, placing the arms on the handle grips, slightly bending.
Before you look for the ideal scooter, it is advisable to learn some basic terminology so you can get more knowledge scooter-wise and know what to ask for, concerning safety. Each scooter is comprised of a deck (platform), wheels, a fork (supporting the front wheel), a brake, handle bar (which can be adjusted in height), handle grips (the parts which help manoeuvring the handle bar and front wheel), and last but not least the headset (connecting the deck with the handle bar). Knowing all this, you can check everything is well secured and in place.
The safety equipment is another safety precaution. For your child to make all out of using the scooter safely, buying a helmet is a must. Prior to riding, teach your child how to use the brake properly. Falling may not always be prevented so the full safety equipment is a priority and should include elbow and knee pads, as well as wrist guards.
Now that you have a clearer view of this fantastic toy, great news is that some of the latest scooter models are motorised. This means, as parents you are given the opportunity to join your kids on the fun and buy one for yourselves too.
