One of the first and most commonly used ‘means of transport” by kids are scooters. Fun, easy to use and handy, kids scooters can certainly provide children with a new, unique and one-of-a-kind experience. So, yeah, it's not strange that kids love them so much.
What Is the Purpose of a Kick Scooter?
The thing that stays the same for all types of kick scooters Australia experts say is that they can improve the child’s physical confidence. When talking about quality and sturdy kick scooters Australia manufacturers say that they can also improve their motor skills which is of vital importance for their overall development. Scooters are also an ideal outdoor activity that will keep your kids active and occupied. What’s more, choosing two-wheel scoter can also prepare them for learning how to ride a bike, so yeah, having a scooter is fun, especially if parents have their own scooters.
Things to Consider When Buying a Scooter
Consider Whether Your Child Is Ready for a Scooter
Obviously, this is the first thing you need to take in mind before choosing a scooter for your child is its age and motor skills, out of which motor skills are more important. Each child is different, so the physical ability and its ability to maintain balance are the key factors in choosing the right scooter for your child. Generally speaking, children can start riding a scooter from 2 to 3 years old. If you think that your little one won’t be stable riding a two-wheel scooter, then you can certainly invest in a three-wheel scooter.
The Difference Between 2 and 3-Wheeled Kick Scooter
3-Wheeled Scooters
The first thing you need to know about 3-wheeled scooters is that there are several types of them available on the market. The most commonly used version is the one with two front wheels, one rear wheel with lean-to turn steering. The reason for its popularity is the ease of use especially by toddlers as it gives them more stability, even when going forward. Being able to steer when turning will make children confident.
Another type of three-wheeled scooter is the one with two front wheels, one rear wheel and a bicycle-type of steering. The thing that makes this scooter different from the previous three-wheeler is that your child won’t need any balancing skill to ride. This fact makes this model the perfect choice for a first kick scooter.
The other two types of models are one front wheel, two rear wheels with bicycle-type steering and a scooter with the same wheel position only in a V-shape arrangement.
2-Wheeled Scooters
These scooters require more balancing skills when compared to the three-wheeled models. They require a minimum speed to remain balanced and when turning as well, and they also need the rider to lean toward the centre of the turn. Similar to learning to ride a bicycle, children need to overcome 2 challenges to successfully ride a two-wheeled scooter. Firstly, they need to get minimum speed, i.e they need to have enough strength to push the scooter up to the minimum speed in order to remain balanced. And secondly, the need to know how to actively and continuously steer the handlebar in order to maintain control.
Large or Small Kick Scooter
The most common doubt people have is whether choosing a smaller or larger scooter. In order not to make a mistake, the first thing to have in mind is the child’s body size and physical activity. Generally speaking, there are several wheel sizes of kick scooters available on the market:
- Small: 100mm, 120mm and 125mm
- Medium: 145mm and 180mm
- Large: 200mm and 205mm
- Very Large: 230mm usually for the front wheel only
Although the smaller ones are mainly appropriate for children of all sizes, if not sure what type of scooter is best for your child, it is best if you consult with a professional or directly with the supplier.
Scooter Size Safety Consideration
No matter how many skills your child has, it is best and safer if you choose a kick scooter with handlebars that are lower than the neck of your child. How come? Well, it is said that if the handlebar is in front of the child’s face and neck, there is an increased chance that the handlebar can cause injury to the face or neck in a case of an accident. In case you have chosen a model with a height-adjustable handlebar, then you should keep the handlebar below neck height as a precaution.
As you can see, choosing a kick scooter for your child is not that difficult. In case not sure what to choose, you should always consult with a more experienced person in order to make the right choice. Otherwise, you risk returning the scooter to avoid unwanted accidents and injuries.
