Australian children are spending more time sitting or lying down than ever before. Between school, homework, reading, and time on electronic devices, kids are leading increasingly sedentary lifestyles. This inactivity negatively impacts their weight, motor and cognitive development, and social and psychological health.
If you’re struggling to get your child to go outside and play, consider giving them a kick scooter. Kids love these fun, easy-to-ride toys. Unlike bikes, scooters are simpler to master, making them an excellent choice for young children. With a scooter, your child can quickly learn the basic skills needed to ride, all while getting the exercise essential for their overall health.
The wide range of children’s scooters today means there’s a perfect option for every child. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right one for your little one.
Consider Your Child’s Height and Weight
When buying a scooter, your child’s size—height and weight—matters more than their age. For a safe and comfortable ride, your child should be able to keep their weight centred towards the rear of the deck. A handlebar that’s too low will force them to lean forward too much to hold on, affecting their balance and control.
Also, check the scooter’s weight rating. Ensure your child does not exceed the maximum weight limit, as this could make the scooter unsafe to ride.
Children’s age groups on scooter labels are generally divided based on height and weight categories. Since children grow at different rates, measure your child’s height and weight to determine the right scooter size.
Two vs. Three-Wheels Scooters
Kick scooters come in two main types: three-wheel scooters for younger children and two-wheel scooters for older kids. Three-wheel scooters typically have two wheels in the front and one in the back, providing greater stability.
Three-wheel scooters are ideal for young, first-time riders who may not yet have the motor skills and balance required for a two-wheeler. These scooters help young children learn to push and steer more easily.
However, there are exceptions. If your child has good motor skills and balance, they might be ready for a two-wheel scooter. Just ensure you get the correct size; a large scooter can be too heavy for a small child to handle.
The type of wheels also impacts scooter performance. Consider wheel size, rear spread, and material:
- Size: Larger wheels offer more stability on uneven terrain. If your child will mostly use the scooter on the street, look for larger wheels.
- Rear Spread: For small children (under four years old), scooters with rear wheels set far apart provide more stability and help them learn to balance.
- Material: Wheels made from rubber are softer than plastic and provide a smoother, more pleasant ride.
Check the Construction and Material
There are many good scooters made from plastic and metal. Plastic scooters are excellent entry-level options for toddlers and preschoolers. They’re lightweight, making them safer during the inevitable spills that happen when learning to ride. Plus, young children often find them easier to manoeuvre and balance on, and they’re simple to transport for playdates or trips to the playground.
Scooters with a metal frame are more durable and offer better value for money as your child grows older, stronger, and heavier. Metal scooters can withstand a variety of surfaces and the tricks that adventurous kids want to try, without breaking or collapsing.
Consider the Height of the Deck
For novices and younger children, choose a deck height that isn’t too high off the ground. A lower deck height lowers the scooter’s centre of gravity, making it easier to balance and scoot along. It also reduces the risk of serious injury by preventing falls from a great height.
Avoid Complex Features
Scooters that come with more complex features can be attractive for older kids, but for young children, they aren’t a great idea. For example, some kick scooters include hand brakes in addition to foot brakes. This feature, if not used properly, can be quite dangerous. That is because pulling the front brake on a kick scooter could cause the rider to fly over the handlebars and crash their face on the floor. Young children usually aren’t smart enough to comprehend the physics of stopping to the point that they can safely engage hand brakes. So, for a young child, a kick scooter without such systems is better.
People also tend to pay a lot of attention to the portability of the scooter. For those who often use kick scooters to commute to and from work, school, and other similar settings, portability is an important thing. In these circumstances, where the kick scooter is mostly used for transit, it must be able to fold up and fit under a desk or into a locker. Young children don’t usually use scooters for that purpose and they may be unable to safely use a complex folding mechanism.
To Sum Up
Choosing the right kick scooter for your child involves considering their height, weight, and skill level. Opt for a three-wheel scooter for younger children or those still developing their balance, and a two-wheel scooter for older, more experienced riders. Pay attention to the construction material, wheel size, and additional features to ensure the scooter is safe and suitable for your child.
By providing your child with a kick scooter, you encourage them to get outside and be active, helping them develop essential motor skills and improve their overall health. Plus, riding a scooter is a fun and enjoyable way for kids to spend their time, making it a win-win for both parents and children.
