Who does not remember with love his first bicycle? Learning to ride a bike is one of the most fun experiences of childhood. And for a father, teaching his son to pedaling is something unique, especially if you have passion for cycling.
But ... how is a child taught to ride a bicycle? What is needed to help you pass from the tricycle or the wheel to the two wheels? The bicycle brand
Trek He has just launched a campaign for this. "With the appropriate knowledge, tools and approach, you can share these memories with your child."
The necessary elements
According to the Trek guide, there are three essential elements to teach a child to ride a bicycle. The first, obviously, is the bike itself. "As parents, we all want the best for our children: a bicycle that is safe, comfortable, reliable and easy to use, without costing an eye of the face," says the US firm.
Security is important, since we should never forget that falling to the ground is part of learning. That is why "the helmet is a fundamental security element."
For greater security, Trek also recommends using daytime circulation lights at all times. "All children must circulate with a rear light to be able to warn others of their presence."
Step 1: Prepare the bicycle
Before learning to pedal on two wheels, your child should learn to maintain balance. Therefore, in addition to removing the wheels that support the rear wheel, it is also advisable to remove the pedals and lower the armchair so that the child's feet are in contact with the ground when sitting on the bicycle. In this way your child "will only have to concentrate on maintaining balance."
Step 2: 'Walk' on a flat surface
Keep in mind that not all children's bicycles have brake controls in the handlebars. Many of them use the contrapedal brake system. That is why it is important that the child learn to walk with the bicycle through a flat and well paved land, preferably with grass to the sides to cushion the possible falls.
Step 3: Learning to turn
Once your child feels comfortable by moving with his feet and finds it easy to maintain his balance, it is time for him to learn to turn and change direction. When you have it dominated, it's time to put the pedals.
Step 4: Pedal in company
It is important that the child's first bike exit is not alone, but you push him gently and accompany him by running by his side while encouraging him to pedal. Thus, even if he does not go to the first and falls several times, he will continue trying.
