Kids Scooters - buying guide and safety tips

There’s no denying that small kids love learning how to ride a scooter! Starting with a three-wheeled scooter and building up to the first two-wheeled scooter.

Before you rush out and buy their first scooter, check out our buying guide and safety tips to ensure your kids stay safe whilst out scootering.

What should I be looking for when buying my kids first scooter:

• Check that the scooter you’re buying is age-appropriate for your little one. Don’t buy one meant for older kids hoping they’ll soon grow into it.
• Scooters with 3 wheels are a great way to start your little one off from a balance perspective, before they progress onto the 2 wheel kind when they older.
• Look for a light weight design, a scooter that’s not too heavy for your child to push themselves or pick up if they fall over.
• A scooter with adjustable height handlebars will let the scooter grow with your toddler.
• Make sure the scooter is easy to assemble when you get home, if it’s not assembled already at the shop or online.
• Buy a helmet at the same time as you buy their scooter and insist they wear it every time they go out for a scoot. Head injuries are one of the worst childhood injuries. Knee and elbow pads are an optional extra.

Some useful scooter safety tips to help kids on their way:

• Start them off on flat ground and slowly progress to them scooting up and down slopes and hills.
• Teach them to be street-wise and to ensure that if they’re scooting along the pavement that they get into the habit of stopping at driveways and kerbs to ensure no traffic is coming their way.
• To help prevent injuries, encourage your toddler to wear sturdy shoes whilst they’re scooting, in case they kick the pavement and stub their toes.
• If you can, dress your little one in brightly coloured clothes before they head off scooting, so that they’re visible to others walking on the pavement and to motorists.
• Regularly check that the scooter's brakes are working and that the tyres are firm. Many scooter companies offer replacement parts if required.

  
Article written by the team at www.under5s.co.nz. Check out some of our other fun activities for toddlers and pre-schoolers.