Tips for teaching your child to ride a bike this summer

There's no doubt that with the arrival of school holidays, there's more time to enjoy the outdoors. The days are longer and routines are more relaxed, making summer an ideal opportunity to teach little ones how to ride a bike . Because if there's one thing it takes to learn, it's time.

It's not just a fun activity. Riding a bike marks a turning point in physical and emotional development, as it fosters independence, coordination, and self-esteem in little ones. Suddenly, it gives them immense freedom that they enjoy during the holidays as one of the best gifts they can receive.

It's important to respect each child's timing. Some will show interest and confidence sooner, while others will show it later. Parental pressure can only generate rejection, while a positive and patient approach is often much more effective.

But the recommended age to start riding a bike is between three and six years old, as by this age, children have already developed some motor control, balance, and the ability to follow simple instructions. And learning can be done gradually. At three or four years old, children can begin using balance bikes, which have no pedals, allowing them to learn and gain autonomy quickly. From five or six years old, when the child has gained confidence and coordination, they are ready to move on to a pedal bike. If they have used a balance bike before, they probably won't need training wheels.

“Teaching our children to ride a bike also means showing them how to ride responsibly, which will protect both them and those around them. It's a process that requires patience , but the result is worth it. Seeing them riding alone, with a proud smile, is one of those moments parents won't forget,” says Javier Bosch, CEO of Cleverea . According to data managed by the company, nine out of ten Spaniards know how to ride a bike, and three out of ten use it weekly to go to work or school. Data that shows that teaching our children to ride a bike will be a gift for life and a permanent memory.

Teaching a child to ride a bike is a simple and highly rewarding process , if done gradually. Cleverea experts point out the key steps to achieving this:

A well-protected child is and feels safer. A helmet is mandatory and must be the correct size, fit properly, and have European certification. Additionally, knee pads and scrambles protect against scrapes in falls, and gloves will prevent injuries to the palms of the hands.

The bike should be the right size. The child should be able to touch the ground with both feet when sitting on the saddle, as this will provide security and stability during their first rides. You should also make sure the saddle and handlebars are properly adjusted, check that the brakes respond well, that the steering is aligned, that the chain is tight and lubricated, and that the tires are at the correct pressure, all of which will prevent unnecessary accidents.

The first step is to find a wide, traffic-free path with a smooth surface and no obstacles. Slopes should be avoided during the first few sessions so that the child doesn't speed up uncontrollably.

It's important for children to become familiar with using brakes from the very beginning. It's also important for them to learn how to brake smoothly and gradually, so as not to lock the wheels and cause a fall.

If your child has used a balance bike, they can start right away without training wheels. If necessary, the pedals can be removed for the first few days so they can practice balancing on the bike itself. Afterward, replace the pedals and teach your child to initiate movement by placing one foot on the raised pedal and pushing off the ground with the other.

To guide your child through their movements, gently hold the saddle, not the handlebars, as this provides stability without interfering with their steering. You should run alongside them for the first few attempts until they begin to balance independently. You shouldn't let go suddenly, and you should always warn them that they're pedaling alone.

Among other things, children must be taught to stop with control, dismount the bike correctly, and return the pedals to the starting position before starting off. Repeating these actions systematically will help them internalize them and make them automatic.

Once your child can maintain balance and pedal confidently, suggest longer rides or ones with gentle curves, which will build their confidence and make learning more fun. If they fall, act naturally, encouraging them to get up and try again.

Additionally, you can turn the process into a game by tracing circuits on the floor, setting small goals like reaching a lamppost or circling a bench, or simulating gentle games of chase. Play helps children learn without realizing it and reduces their anxiety.

Although children will initially be in pedestrian zones or parks, the sooner they learn that there are better traffic rules. They must be taught to look both ways before crossing, obey signs, use their bell, and anticipate the movements of others.

Although it is not mandatory , insurance is very useful.