Ditch the Stabilisers in 5 easy steps
Teach your child (or grandchild!) to ride a bike in less than 30mins … yes, you can do it!
Teaching a child to ride a bike is a joyous thing and we are lucky we get to do it almost every day. As well as teaching Bikeability in schools across Hampshire, we also offer 1:1 tuition.
But imagine being the one to help your child learn to ride a bike — being there for that very special moment?
REMEMBER, every child learns at their own pace – cheer them on and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small.
Follow our simple tips and we’ll help your child ditch the stabilisers for good
Step 1: Gear Up for Safety
Helmet First: Always start by ensuring your child is wearing a properly fitting helmet. Safety first!
Positive Encouragement: Keep the experience fun and positive. Praise their efforts and celebrate small victories.
Step 2: Focus on Balance and Control
Remove the Pedals: Take the pedals off the bike. This transforms the bike into a balance bike.
Feet Flat on the Floor: Ensure your child can put both feet flat on the ground while sitting on the bike seat.
Step 3: Walking the Bike
Seat Sitting: Have your child sit on the seat with their bottom firmly in place.
Walking Around: Encourage them to “walk” the bike around, using their feet to push off and glide.
Step 4: Introduce a Gentle Slope
Find a Slope: Move to a gentle slope. The slight downhill helps generate speed and aids in balancing.
Coasting Practice: Let your child coast down the slope, focusing on maintaining balance. Aim for them to coast for about 10 seconds.
Step 5: Add the Pedals
Reattach the Pedals: Once balance is mastered, reattach the pedals.
Practice Pedalling: Encourage your child to place their feet on the pedals as the bike moves. Start on the slope again and let them get comfortable with pedalling.
Final Tips:
Stay Patient: Every child learns at their own pace. Keep sessions short and enjoyable.
Celebrate Progress: Cheer them on and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small.
By following these steps, your child will be well on their way to confidently riding a bike without stabilisers!
