Do Bicycle Training Wheels Help Kids Learn to Ride?
By: Elece Hollis Do bicycle training wheels help or hinder a child who is learning to ride? Parents differ in their opinion of the effectiveness of training wheels. Some believe that the wheels are a nuisance and prevent the child from learning to balance. Still other parents believe that training wheels are invaluable in teaching the child to handle his bicycle well. Support While Training The little bit of support afforded by the training wheels may be a simple comforting boost to a child’s self confidence. Often, a child only really uses the training wheels while he is starting or stopping the bike. Once his feet have started pedaling he can ride unaided, since the bike’s momentum holds the bike upright. The wheels may not have much effect at all, but the child feels safer. Position the training wheels to make them a help rather than a hindrance. Both wheels should be positioned so that they do not touch the ground when the bike is upright. They should be ½ to 1 inch off the ground.
