Your baby is now a toddler and is on the move constantly. Now is the time to start looking at a balance bike vs a scooter for your toddler.
Each type of bike comes with its own set of pros and cons, we are going to help you figure out which one is best for your toddler.
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Basic Difference Between Balance Bike and Scooter
There are a few notable differences between a balance bike and a toddler scooter, but both can be hugely beneficial to your child. Let us look at the balance bike vs a scooter!
3 Reasons Why You Need Your Toddler to Try One of These
Perhaps you are wondering whether your toddler needs a balance bike or a scooter. We have outlined a few reasons why teaching your child to ride is very beneficial. These reasons will also further help you decide balance bike vs scooter.
When you introduce a balance bike or a scooter for the first time, your child must learn a new set of skills to get the bike or scooter to move.
Benefits & Trade-offs with Balance Bike
Benefits & Trade-offs with Scooter
Whatever You Choose Focus on Safety
Whether you decide on a balance bike or a scooter, it is essential you teach your child how to ride safely from the beginning.
If you compare balance bike vs scooter safety, you will find both come with certain stresses and worries you as a parent, but that is not a reason to avoid getting one. If you are considering a balance bike or scooter for 18-month-old, a balance bike might be the safer option.
Your child will probably fall a few times, this is an important step in how they learn. You just need to make sure they are wearing a helmet every time they get on their scooter or balance bike.
This must be a non-negotiable and if you teach your child to wear their helmet from the beginning it will develop into a good habit.
Wearing shoes when they ride is also a good idea to prevent them from grazing or scratching as they move along. Both the scooter and the balance bike require your toddler to use their feet to move.
The Winner
So, balance bike vs scooter which one gets our vote?
There is no actual real right answer here, it depends on your child and what you feel as a parent is the better of the two.
That said, we favor the balance bike over the scooter for many of the reasons we mentioned above. It is also a good idea to ask your child which one they prefer. If they have friends who have bikes, or if you cycle, they may also prefer to get a balance bike.
Another possible solution is the balance bike scooter 2-in-1 which offers the best of both worlds.
When it comes to specific bikes, we recommend this lightweight balance bike for 2-year-olds. It is a great beginner bike for toddlers that allows them to focus on their balance.
The seat can be easily adjusted to meet your child’s needs and as they grow it can grow with them. The tires allow you to take the bike on any types of terrain safely and securely.
Why We Choose Balance Bike?
Why did we choose the balance bike, there a few reasons? The balance bike helps to prepare your child for a bicycle. They learn how to balance and control the handlebars, so when the time comes to introduce a pedal bike, it will be easier.
In the long term a bicycle is a better investment than an electrical scooter as it encourages more physical activity. A balance bike requires the use of both legs to maneuver it, which means both leg muscles are being used at the same time.
It is important to understand that this is merely our finding, buying your child a scooter is not wrong and does have many benefits.
The Only Mistakes You Can Make
When it comes to deciding balance bike vs scooter remember to listen to your child and avoid forcing what you want onto them. If your child prefers a scooter, then get them a scooter rather.
Picking the right size balance bike is very important. If the bike is too big it will be very hard for them to control it and they will end up not wanting to ride it. When looking at the size if the bike, your toddlers’ feet should easily touch the ground.
Sometimes all you need to do is adjust the seat a little. You also want to avoid a bike that is too heavy for your child to move around.
FAQs
What age is best for a balance bike?
Toddlers can start riding balance bikes from around the age of 18-months and will generally be able to ride them until they are about 5 years old.
Do you need a helmet for a balance bike?
Absolutely! Wearing a helmet is crucial every time your child gets on their bike. Protecting their head is non-negotiable. Make sure their helmet is the right size.
Is a bike or a scooter better for toddler?
There is no clear answer to this. The above pros and cons highlight that both are beneficial to your toddler. It comes down to your personal choice.
Is there something wrong with scooters for toddlers?
Absolutely not. Scooters can teach your child many new skills and if they have asked for one, there is no reason not to get them one.
Conclusion
We hope that you have enjoyed this article and found it useful in deciding balance bike vs scooter. There is absolutely nothing wrong with scooters, but the balance bike gets our vote.
We would love to hear which one you chose so please leave a comment letting us know. If you feel this article was helpful, please share with your family and friends.