Things You'll Need:
- A helmet
- A properly sized bicycle
- A patient attitude
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Step 1
Consider safety first. Make sure your child has a helmet that fits them. Also, have them wear long pants, a shirt with sleaves and shoes that cover their toes. Finally, make sure the bicycle seat is adjusted to a height that allows the child to easily put their foot on the ground.
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Step 2
Find an open stretch of smooth, low cut grass that is free of obstacles. Ideally, the area will have a slight slope to it. Riding down this slope will help your child maintain momentum and will make it easier for them to learn to ride.
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Step 3
With kind words of enthusiatic encouragement, help your child mount the bike. Give them a chance to get comfortable on the seat, place both hands on the handlebars, and get their feet position on the pedals. Be sure to firmly hold the bicycle while your child is getting positioned on the seat.
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Step 4
Before your child starts to pedal, ask them to look at a distant object straight in front of them and to ride towards it. Looking at a far-away object will make it easier for them to balance. With a gentle push have your child start to pedal.
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Step 5
As your child starts to move, jog right behind them and help them mantain their balance. You can do this by continuously keeping a hand on one of their shoulders or by gently nudging their right or left shoulder as they start to fall to one side. Do not hold onto the handlebar of the bike as that make it difficult for the child to learn how to steer and adjust the handlebars to keep their balance.
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Step 6
Keep practicing and by all means do not pressure or chatise your child when they fall. You want to be patient, enthusiastic and supportive of your child as they learn. By keeping it light and fun, your child will be much more willing to get up and try again after a spill.
