Learning to ride a bike
Learning to ride a bike is a big achievement and an important life skill. It takes time, practice and confidence. Riding a bike involves many different skills. These include balance, coordination, body awareness and planning movements. Your child needs to be able to react to what is happening around them.
Every child learns at their own pace. Focus on small successes. Keep practice fun and positive.
Skills needed for riding a bike
Children use many skills when learning to ride, including:
- balance and core strength
- coordination between their arms and legs
- body awareness
- planning and sequencing movements
- looking ahead and reacting to obstacles
- confidence and perseverance
Helpful tips
Set your child up for success by:
- making sure the bike is the correct size
- making sure feet can comfortably touch the ground when learning
- choosing a safe, quiet area away from traffic
- keeping practice sessions short and fun
- allowing plenty of opportunities to practise
Encourage good habits such as:
- wearing a helmet every time
- stopping safely when losing balance
- using both brakes
- walking the bike when not riding
- looking ahead, not down
When your child finds riding difficult
Some children need extra time to learn bike riding skills. You can help by:
- breaking the task into small steps
- practising one skill at a time
- giving simple instructions
- demonstrating the skill first
- offering physical support when needed
- using lots of praise and encouragement
Make it fun by trying obstacle courses, riding between cones, treasure hunts on bikes, timed balance challenges and family bike rides.
Learning to ride a bike is a complex skill. Progress may seem slow at times, but regular practice builds confidence and success. With support and encouragement, your child will gradually develop the skills and confidence needed to ride independently.