Parents are Turning to a Wood Toy as a New Way to Teach Kids To Ride a Bike

Wooden toys may seem like the byproduct of some long lost era, but there are some that have stood the test of time and evolved into something that's both modern and timeless. This is true of the wood bike, a toy that's been the most common way to teach a child to ride a bike in Europe for decades. The wood bike is now becoming a trendy alternative to the tricycle in the US as well and with good reason. Unlike a tricycle that really is simply a toy, the wood bike can teach an important lifelong skill - balance.

It's the design of the wood bike that makes it truly different. Gone are the pedals, chain and sprocket we're used to in the U.S. and it's in place there is...nothing. That's right, no pedals to get in the way. Kids just push themselves around on these wooden bikes with their feet, gradually learning to build up enough momentum to balance on two wheels. Even toddlers can learn to ride on these bike and the fact that they are wooden and look like a toy make them even more tempting for young kids.

Look on YouTube and you're sure to find dozens of videos of young kids cruising around on their wooden balance bikes. With a charming "toy" appearance but solid construction, kids are finding it easy to maneuver these lightweight, low-profile bikes both on the sidewalk or grass. Metal versions of these bikes are available as well, and these also adhere to the basic principles of a balance bike - light, low to the ground without pedals, chain or sprocket. This may be another option for parents in search of a balance bike, but some kids just prefer the comfort of a wood bike.

Many parents see the balance bike as an opportunity to give their child a head start to learn to ride a bike and master an important skill early in life. A wood bike may not be the cheapest alternative for parents looking to get their child started on a wheeled vehicle. Trendy Euro-models such as the LikeABike can cost in excess of $250, but there are less costly options like the Smart Gear bike which retails for under $90. The investment is often seen as worthwhile given what the child learns...balance...and the fact that it will be enjoyed longer than a tricycle by most toddlers.

The sight of a child zipping down the sidewalk on a pedal-less wooden bicycle is becoming more and more common her in the U.S. Parents are embracing this innovative method for teaching their child to ride a bicycle that puts the focus squarely on balance. Lighter and more maneuverable than heavier pedal bikes, the wood balance bike puts the focus on learning the most important element of bike riding first...balance.

If you're a parent with a toddler and it's feeling like it's time to buy your son or daughter a tricycle, consider a wood bike instead. The benefit of practicing balance at an early age can pay dividends late into life as balance is a learned skill. You're walk around the neighborhood will be enjoyable too. It's unlikely your little one would be able to keep up with you on a tricycle, but after a few days on a wooden balance bike - you may be chasing after them.