My father and I had a special relationship, not only because I am the sole child, but because he was the one that did what a mother typically does. My mother had to get up and leave early for work and was never home before school let out, so my father did everything from making meals and packing lunches to taking me to school, extracurricular activities, and appointments. I learned so much from him…everything from the names of all the Presidents (in sequential order might I add) and poetry to art, photography, and science. He also taught me how to ride a bike! Back then, learning to ride a bike involved training wheels. As I gained confidence, he removed those training wheels and would simply hold on to the back of the bike while I learned. And then at some point he simply let go.
These days, children as young as my son can learn to ride a bike, and interestingly enough, experts in the industry are finding that training wheels may not be the best way to teach a child to learn this skill. According to Joovy, an American retailer that strives to offer families “useful, practical, good-looking, fun” products, balance bikes may help children learn the art of balance quickly and more effectively. There is a great article on Joovy’s blog that talks about why balance bikes may be preferred over training wheels when a child is learning to master this skill.
Geared towards children over the age of 3, Joovy’s Bicycoo is a stylish, affordable, lightweight balance bike that has won design awards at Europe’s largest tradeshow. My son has been practicing his balancing skills, and so far, we’re both enjoying the “ride” despite the fact that there is a definite learning curve.
Putting together the Bicycoo was relatively easy, since it comes “mostly” assembled. I appreciate the fact that the balance bike is sturdy, yet lightweight and offers an adjustable seat so that we can get as much use out of it as possible. Because the bike is made from aluminum (as opposed to wood or steel), children are better able to maneuver, control, and balance it. The tires are refillable and the bike is equipped with a hand brake that slows the rear tire.
Overall, we have enjoyed the balance bike. My son hasn’t completely mastered the art of balancing the bike but we’re working on it each week. We’re hoping that in time, we’ll be able to transition to a big kid bike sans training wheels!
Joovy’s Bicycoo retails for $149.99 and is available online.
No compensation was received for this post. As a Jooyv Mom, I receive products to test out. All opinions remain solely that of the author.
- Discover Luxury at Sonesta Irvine: Your Ideal Staycation - August 8, 2024
- CHOC Walk Returns to the Disneyland Resort – Special Events and Ways to Support - June 28, 2023
- Beastly Ball Returns to the Los Angeles Zoo - May 8, 2023
Leave a Reply