Gearing Up for a Two-Wheeler

Everyday Health features insight from NYITCOM-Arkansas pediatrician and Assistant Professor Adam Hurst, M.D., in an article about preparing children for their first time on a two-wheel bicycle. In addition to building confidence and sense of accomplishment, learning to ride a bike is an excellent source of challenging a child’s balance in motion and developing bilateral and hand-eye coordination.

To get children comfortable with their first time on the seat—typically between the ages of 4 to 7, according to Hurst—parents can opt for a balance bike or adding training wheels to a traditional two-wheeler, but Hurst suggests that using “whichever gets your child the most excited to learn this skill [is best].”

He emphasizes that “fear is a child’s appropriate response,” and riding a bike should not be forced. Most importantly, he says, “every time your child gets on a bike, you should remind them to wear a helmet,” so head injuries may be avoided. In addition to other safety gear like closed-toed shoes, appropriate clothing, and protective pads, Hurst reminds parents that safety also includes teaching children basic traffic rules and when and where to ride their bike.