Get little warriors moving (and tire them out) with these 10 clever obstacle courses for kids. Participants will break a sweat and the best part? Each one of these DIY obstacle courses can be easily set up inside or in the backyard. From an all-star athlete adventure to easy sidewalk chalk, it’ll be hard to pick just one. On your mark, get set, go!
Easy as A-B-C! From teaching the alphabet to math problems, kids can learn on the move with this studious obstacle course designed for kids from Hands on as We Grow.
2. All-Star Obstacle Course
Whether your little sports star loves to dribble the ball or take free throw shots, this DIY obstacle course deserves a trophy. Find a big bucket and beach balls (easy on furniture!), and you're good to go. Get the details for this sporty idea over at My Big Happy Life.
Get ready for the big top! This one is good for a backyard obstacle course; with plenty of room, you can have a circus-themed DIY obstacle course. From jumping through hula hoops to feats on the balance beam, we’ve found plenty of ideas over at Be a Fun Mum.
4. Hot Lava Obstacle Course
Look out for the lava! Whether it’s walking over cushions, a balance beam, or traversing a bench, your little explorers need to avoid the hot lava that’s oozing down from the giant volcano. Cruise over to Crumb Bums for directions on making this indoor obstacle course perfect for your adventurous crew.
iStock
5. Bike Obstacle Course
You'll need sports cones and sidewalk chalk to set up this simple tricycle obstacle course for your tiny tike. Create turnarounds and crazy eight loops and then draw chalk arrows (and other helpful suggestions) to keep your tot on track. Once you’ve mapped out the basics, it’s time to get creative. Put in ramps, a cardboard box tunnel or two, and maybe even a sprinkler. Run it as a relay between siblings if you’ve got multiple kids to entertain. Here are even more tricycle race ideas.
6. Sidewalk Chalk Obstacle Course
Grab a piece of colorful sidewalk chalk and give directions to jump, count, turn around, or do whatever your kid loves to do. Then simply draw a start and finish line and you're ready to go! This is perfect for the sidewalk out front or on a patio in the backyard.
You'll need to dig out those winter holiday decorations because they’re the centerpiece of this inventive obstacle course dreamed up by the creative minds at Childhood 101. As they make their way over, under, and around your tricky design, your normally noisy kiddos can’t make any sound here.
8. Tape Obstacle Course
We’re crushing on this simple obstacle course for your crew, and not just because you can set it up as easily inside as you can outside. All you need is a roll of blue painter’s tape—create balance beams, squares to be jumped in or over, squiggly rivers that need crossing… the list is endless. Then it’s up to the competitors to travel safely around, over, between, and through all the imaginatively large obstacles you’ve laid out for them.
If you buy glow sticks in bulk, you're in luck. Once the sun has set, lay out your sticks, creating glowing patches that require jumping, paths that need careful crossing, and even sticks that need to be collected. Then send your crew off and running. A few porch lights or flashlights can help them navigate things safely.
10. Boot Camp Course
You don’t need to dig out fatigues for your kids to complete this army-inspired obstacle course. But you do need to think like a drill sergeant when you set it up. We’re talking tire ladders (or hula hoops) made for running, string suspended a couple of feet off the ground for crawling under, and boards made for balancing. Add in a few push-ups, jumping jacks, and “sir, yes, sir” along the way and you’ve got a challenging course for your sidekick to soldier through.
We’ve rounded up our favorite out-of-town destinations, from a beach trip to a National Park hike
Not everyone likes to mix colder temps and outdoor fun, but you can change that this winter season. We’ve rounded up some fun winter road trip stops and there’s something for everyone in your crew to love. From exploring a small town like Wilmington, DE to hitting the slopes at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, this winter road trip list checks off all the boxes. Skip the winter blues, and hop in the car to start enjoying the coolest season of the year.
Charleston, South Carolina boasts some pretty spectacular beach spots with great off-season weather, but the drive out of town to Botany Bay is one worth taking. Photographers include this "tree boneyard" on their bucket lists, and little ones will flip over the thousands of shells washed up along the shoreline. To get to the beach, you'll walk through lush wetlands until you step out on one of South Carolina's most hidden gems. Just remember, you can't take the shells home with you.
Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area Botany Bay Rd. Edisto Island, SC Online:dnr.sc.gov
What is a DMV winter without a little (or a lot) of fun in the snow? At Shawnee Mountain, kids are the stars. With morning, afternoon, and full-day children’s programs, your kiddos will make life-long memories at this Pennsylvania-based ski area. They even have a mommy-and-me program for your tiniest snow-lover. Don't worry! The helmet is included at no extra charge.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area 401 Hollow Rd. East Stroudsburg, PA Online:shawneemt.com
Crabtree Falls, the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, is a spectacular sight and you won't have anything to block your view in the winter months. The first overlook is just a few hundred feet from the parking lot along a paved path making it an excellent stopover for travelers of all ages and abilities. The more adventuresome hiker may continue along the 3-mile trail to four other overlooks.
11581 Crabtree Falls Hwy. Montebello, VA Online:virginia.org
Don't miss the most visited National Park in the United States. Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits between North Carolina and Tennessee. Your family will love the lush forests and wildflowers that bloom year-round. Streams, rivers, and waterfalls dot portions of the Appalachian Trail. There's something for everyone at this gorgeous national park.
You probably don't think of a winter wonderland when you think about Wilmington, DE, but you might be surprised by all the winter fun to be had there. As if tax-free shopping isn't enough of an incentive, the Enchanted Woods at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, and the riverfront Delaware Children's Museum certainly are. If you are feeling adventurous, you and your gang can stop at nine small Delaware towns along the statewide Discovery Trail. Each stop offers a fun photo op with an original wall mural.
Bundle up and head over to the Balanced Rock Viewing Area at Trough Creek State Park in Pennsylvania if you want to see a few waterfalls, some cool natural stone steps, and a huge balanced rock on the side of a mountain. Your little adventures will love to make the suspension bridge sway back and forth over the creek. Grab a picnic table in front of Copperas Rock or picnic in your warm car parked across the street, but don't miss one of the most breathtaking rock formations around.
16362 Little Valley Rd. James Creek, PA Online:dcnr.pa.gov
My son was 10 when we relocated to a new city and state. And with that move came some new vocabulary as well.
Right away, child-of-mine picked up on the fact that his new classmates were saying, with some frequency, the word “crap,” a syllable I’d strictly forbidden from crossing his sassy little lips. And when he first heard a teacher shamelessly utter the expression, right there in front of her students, he decided we needed to have a little chit-chat on the subject.
Using his powers of persuasion and logic—which are both impressive and infuriating—he convinced me to let him try out this previously banned four-letter word. But I wasn’t thrilled about it—and he knew it.
And so it went. Naturally, he had a very hard time suppressing his newfound fascination with the pseudo-swear. “Crappity-crap-crap-crap!” Suddenly, I was cohabitating with a pint-sized, PG-rated sailor.
“That’s crap!”
“What the crap?”
“Holy crap!”
So we had to set some ground rules. Those three expressions above, yeah, they were nixed immediately. When I proposed he could try “what the heck” instead of “what the crap” or “holy moly” instead of “holy crap,” he guffawed at my old-lady ways, and I glimpsed the teenager he would most likely become. Whether I was uncool or not, he had no choice but to relent to the Mommy-in-Charge.
And so, thank goodness, he began to dial it back. “That’s crap!” transformed into “That’s junk!” (Sigh. Is that really any better?) And we came upon a consensus: No “crapping” in public or in front of family. And no excessive “crappity-crap-crapping” just because you have working vocal cords.
He knew this was a test of his maturity—possibly even a gateway to other privileges—and fortunately, treated it as such. In fact, he’s managed to find a palatable balance among all this crap, and he now only sparingly uses the once-controversial expression.
However, there was one unforeseen hiccup I should have seen coming a mile away. But nope. Oh no. I walked right into it. Just days after this new idiomatic freedom was bestowed upon my child, we had friends over for dinner. Gleefully, he announced to everyone in attendance: “My mom lets me say the C-word now!”
I'm a freelance writer with a background in journalism and corporate communications. My musings focus on living abroad, special needs, my puppy dog and everyday mom stuff. I live in the Midwestern USA with my husband, two sons and rescue mutt. For privacy,
There’s nothing that motivates a little one for a walk around the neighborhood like a scooter. We’ve scouted out all the best three-wheeled scooters for little ones, scooters that convert to a tricycle and even electric scooters for when you want to up the power. Which one will be your family’s favorite?
Best Scooter That Ages Well: Razor A Scooter
Razor was the first to market in 2000 (maybe you even had one back in the day) and they've managed to stay a step (or a scoot ahead) of the competition throughout the years. Why? The scooter is aluminum, which makes it lightweight, yet durable. Handlebars can be adjusted easily, and while there's no assembly required when you open the box, the scooter does fold down for quick and easy carry and storage.
For Blues Clues Fans: Blues Clues Swinging Blue Scooter
We love this too-cute scooter that comes with three wheels for extra stability. As the child leans in each direction, the scooter and Blue lean with the rider making the scooter a fun and interactive toy for children ages 3-7 years old.
Best Scooter for Toddlers and Beginners: Micro Kickboard Original
Erin Lem
For those first learning to balance and ride on wheels, we suggest the original Micro Kickboard (tried and tested by our Editorial Director's toddler son who picked it up after just a handful of outings). We were impressed with the scooter's engineering: it's stable and easy to balance on without feeling flimsy, simple to steer and tough as nails (or as Mico Kickboard says, they're "virtually indestructible" and we'd have to agree). The design and quality of the scooter mean it'll still be in great condition year after year, which is the type of product we love investing in.
Best Convertible Scooter: Swagtron 4-In-1 Scooter & Trike
Swagtron
It's a scooter! It's a bike! It's . . . both! Swagtron's K6 4-in-1 scooter has a simple-to-use modular design capable of switching between two- and three-wheeled versions of both a balance bike and stand-up kick scooter. It's perfect for growing with kids as their balance and skills increase. With the simple click of a button, the seat of the balance bike rotates to become the deck of a stand-up scooter. Use two rear wheels in either mode for greater stability or swap out for a single wheel. The single wheel features a heel brake for use in scooter mode, just like the big kids.
We love this two-wheeled option from Globber as it is easy to bring along to adventures. The handlebars easily fold down to pack in the trunk and they also extend to four different heights to grow with your child.
The Amazon reviews speak for themselves but the key element to this scooter is the big air-filled tires which provide some natural suspension to ride over multiple terrain options. The scooter also comes standard with hand brakes which are an added convenience not typically seen on standard kick scooters.
Kids ages 9 and up will love the sleek styling of this upgraded scooter that doesn't have any little kid vibes at all. You can fold it in half for easy transportation and the kickstand helps it stay upright when you need a break. We especially appreciated the suspension system when going over bumps on the sidewalk.
When SVOLTA designed their scooters, they essentially made scooters they (adults) wanted to ride, but in kid sizes. They opted for premium materials, so the construction is solid and sturdy. The scooters ride smoothly and have a variety of added style details like matte satin finishes, champagne gold accents and lightning bolt patterns. They've got different scooters for little ones (the 2-in-1 sit and stand convertible), toddlers (3-wheel kick scooter) and bigger kids (2-wheel kick scooter) so you'll be able to find something that works for you.
Tired of having to upgrade your kid's scooter as they grow? The ULTIMUM scooter from Globber solves this problem. Designed to be used from age 5 all the way up to adults, the scooter has a 6-height adjustable T-bar and adjustable steering angle control system. The extra-wide scooter deck supports up to 220 lbs. and comes with an anti-slip deck design. You'll love that the scooter folds down for easy carrying.
Lots of kids are getting into this two-footed style that moves when they wiggle. This one was the first on the market and we love its ability to drift and have a controlled ride.
Your kids will love zipping around in this fun electric scooter with rainbow lights. You can feel good knowing that the speed is controllable by you. It folds up for easy transport and storage, and you can adjust the handlebar height as your kid grows.
Best Powered Scooter: Segway Ninebot eKickScooter ZING E8
Segway
If you are looking to add a little power to your scooter, check out this option from Segway. The Ninebot eKickScooter ZING E8 has a max speed of 8 mph with 4 hours of charge time. There's a hand-operated brake plus a foot brake for easy stopping. It also comes in 10 mph and 12 mph models.
From our friends over at Radio Flyer comes this new eScooter on the block. With a top speed of 16mph and a 15.5 mile range, you can cruise to the grocery store and back. Designed for adults, the Flyer is available in gray, white and red. It even folds down for easy portability.
Best Powered Scooter for Tweens/Adults: Segway Ninebot KickScooter ES1L
Segway
You'll love the smooth ride from this Segway scooter that has won design awards and is a favorite of tweens, teens and grown ups. Whether you use it to commute or just to tool around the neighborhood, you'll love the front electronic, and rear foot brakes to keep you safe. Headlights make you stand out when the sun goes down and the max speed of 12.4 mph gets you where you need to go.
There’s nothing as motivational as working out with a friend, especially a pal who is on the same health track as you. So when we discovered the #fitmom community on Instagram, an incredibly positive community full of delicious food pics, innovative fitness techniques and life with kids, we knew we had to share more. Scroll down to see which moms we turn to for instant inspiration (especially on the days we can hardly get out of bed!).
@bwmcfitness
As a trainer and mom of 4 boys, Jennifer Gelman aims to find the athlete in every parent. Her workout videos and photos are truly fun to see, especially when she incorporates her kiddos into the routine. Nothing will work out your glutes like squatting with a three-year-old in your lap! Follow her at @bwmcfitness on Instagram.
Healthy living isn’t just about getting your reps in and eating right—it’s also about the mindset and finding balance. That’s why we love Brooke Froelich, a momma who tackles life outdoors with her little one. Snow or shine, she always makes sure to get fresh air into her routines. See her trail adventures at @brooke.froelich on Instagram.
@nomnompaleo
You could plan your entire breakfast, lunch and dinner plans for the rest of the year just by looking at @nomnompaleo‘s Instagram. Michelle Tam is a foodie genius behind an award-winning blog, cooking app and award-nominated cookbook, so there’s no doubt that her family is happily well fed. Plus, they say diet is 70% of the way to getting fit, so follow @nomnompaleo to get a 10% head start.
@trishaenriquez From one mom to another, Tricia Enriquez is a fitness coach that all parents can get behind. Many of her photos feature her adorable daughter dancing or working on that downward dog stretch right beside her. Plus, if you’re all about before and after photos for proof or jumping into a 30-day challenge, @trishaenriquez will satisfy that bug.
@thefoodiekids
Sometimes the key to eating happy and healthy is eating with style. That’s why we love The Foodie Kids of Austin. They feature delicious dishes foodie kids are gobbling up left and right. In a very yummy way, @thefoodiekids offers up great ideas on new foods your mini-me might want to try. Sure there are desserts and french fries featured, but life is about balance and @thefoodiekids has got that balance right.
@Busy.Fit.Mom
Brooke Amaral of @Busy.Fit.Mom breaks down how to balance fitness, nutrition and mom life in an inspirational way. You can’t help but feel motivated after seeing her sessions. Whether in the gym or outside having adventures with her kids, catch her in action at @Busy.Fit.Mom.
@jennagtaz_fit
Find your “why” and self-confidence with Jenna Guerrettaz over at @jennagtaz_fit. She’s dedicated to helping other moms find their way to a healthier life that fits them. No cookie-cutter advice here. Be sure to add her to your feed ASAP for fit tips.
@Caroline_Prestano
We love how honest @Caroline_Prestano is. She keeps it real and gives you doable workouts you can tackle at home (like she does in her basement.) Plus this podcaster has recipes and more for her followers. Follow @Caroline_Prestano to find out more.
If there’s one thing that’s certain in life it’s that kids never stop growing. Now is the perfect time to check to see if your kid needs a bike upgrade. We’ve done the research on the best kids’ bikes and tricycles with our own kids as the testers so we know what works and what doesn’t. From kids’ mountain bikes to kids’ dirt bikes to the beginner balance bikes, read on for our kid-tested picks for the best of the best.
Can't wait to get your little rider on wheels? This bundle gives you a Strider Bike—and a place to prop it—so your tot can climb on and test his balance by simply rocking back and forth. He'll feel like he's really riding and will be that much closer to the real thing. Then, when he's ready, just pop the bike out and hit the road.
For trendsetting tots (er, parents) who like to roll in style, this trike will be on every Fancy Nancy's wish list. Designed in collaboration with Bentley Motors (the wheels are an exact replica of the Bentley Continental GT, and the kids tricycle is available in the same colors as the cars), this luxurious stroller trike can accommodate your child from babyhood and beyond. And before you scoff at the outrageous price tag, consider that this little gizmo is at once a forward and backward-facing stroller, a push trike and a pedal trike—with a few phases in between. It's pricey . . . but it'll last you five years.
Best Tricycle to Grow Into: EZ Fold 4-in-1 Stroll ‘N Trike
Radio Flyer
If you're more bargain than Bentley, Radio Flyer's EZ Fold 4-in-1 tricycle will do the job just fine. It starts as a push stroller and easily transforms to become a push trike, learn-to-ride trike and finally a classic tricycle. The set of wheels also features a removable wrap-around tray with a cup holder, a rear storage bucket, an adjustable canopy and a three-point harness for safety.
Our list wouldn't be complete without Radio Flyer's classic red tricycle. We've hauled these bad boys around to events, let our kids ride them around our neighborhoods and have even been known to take a spin ourselves. The steel construction makes these tricycles extra durable (believe us—some of ours have taken a beating and are still wheeling around in prime condition). Most of all, we love that classic look won't ever go out of style.
Balance is everything when you're learning how to ride, and Kickster is the perfect teaching tool for toddlers who are mastering this important skill. This kids' balance bike doesn't have pedals so balance is the only focus, plus it features a handle so you can support your little one while they get the hang of things. We love that the seat is adjustable so that it works well for taller toddlers too!
Best Bike with Modern Geometry: Mongoose Title Tot
Little rippers start here. The road to awesome is paved with confidence-building fun when kids learn to ride on the Title Tot by Mongoose. The smallest member of the Title BMX race series, the Title Tot is designed to help young kids learn to ride by putting the focus on balance and gliding before they graduate to a pedal bike—eliminating the need for training wheels. But don’t let its tiny size fool you, this balance bike has got it all: a lightweight aluminum frame, air-filled tires for grip and control, and even a ball bearing headset and wheel hubs for quality performance. Plus, the quick-adjust seat makes it easy to adjust the height for growing kids. Let the wild ride begin with the Title Tot by Mongoose.
For a cool-looking balance bike that doesn't break the bank, the Joystar is a perfect fit. Featuring an adjustable seat and handlebars plus a footrest that sits where the feet would be if the rider were pedaling, this budget bike helps newbie riders find their center of gravity and get gliding right away. It also has air-free tires so you never have to worry about filling up. Available in black, blue, green and pink.
There's a reason you see so many Woom 1 bikes on the sidewalks with beginner riders: it perfectly fits the smallest riders who may still be learning to work on their motor skills. The bike is easy for the littlest toddlers (ages 1.5 to 3 years old) to jump on and glide, ensuring that they're able to learn to ride and balance with confidence. The bike even comes with real rear brakes, which are specially-designed for small hands to operate so kiddo can learn how to safely bring her bike to a halt. Our Editorial Director counts herself a big fan of this model—her toddler now rides with confidence thanks to the stability and design of the Woom 1 (you'll catch her sprinting behind struggling to keep up).
If we want to inspire the next generation of riders, kids deserve better bikes. That’s why Specialized took the same tech behind their world championship-winning bikes and combined it with proportional design to build the ultimate balance bike. The Hotwalk features an A1 Premium Aluminum frame, along with Rhythm Lite Airless tires designed to be fast rolling while maintaining enough grip for dirt.
Similar to the above, Giant's Pre Balance Bike is a hit amongst the balance biker toddler gangs of the preschool world. With the fatter tires than the above Woom 1 bike, we found this bike easy to learn how to ride (and great if you're taking your balance bike on dirt paths or to the bike park). The newest Giant model features a redesigned frame that gives the bike a more sporty feel. Little riders will also like the footrest feature and updated geometry that makes the bike adaptable to riders as they grow taller.
A Bike That Will Grow with Your Kids: Jett by Specialized
Specialized
This great option just entered the market in May 2021 and you're gonna love it. The right bike for a young rider is a delicate balance between too small, too big, and a short-lived ‘just right.’ Kids move fast and grow fast. Jett can adjust to fit the young rider and provide the perfect fit for up to 50% longer. Specialized did their homework to understand how kids grow—spoiler alert, kids’ arms and legs grow more rapidly than their torso. The brand took to the books and designed a bike with child-specific touch points that withstand the development of young riders.
The Gecko fits kids with inseams of 14” to 18”. First-time riders with an inseam of 15” plant their feet comfortably on the ground while sitting on the saddle. The Gecko is a lightweight, high-quality bike option. The freewheel version (shown here) weighs 13.5 pounds—lighter than similar bikes on the market. Recent upgrades to the Gecko include a smaller saddle for the littlest riders that features a handle tucked seamlessly beneath it. The Gecko also has a knobby tire, making it great for trail pursuits.
Lightweight was a priority for Cleary Bikes’ founders, who are parents who know well what it’s like to carry home a 40-pound kid—and a 40-pound bike— after a little rider has lost steam.
Cleary’s hand-made steel frames are super strong, meaning there is no weight limit on any of their bikes, including this Gecko, which comes in five colors. (Yes, Mom and Dad, you can ride the Gecko!) Built to last, these bikes are durable enough to last through multiple siblings, friends and neighbors. Cleary guarantees all its bikes with a lifetime warranty.
This bike company was founded in New York City by a dad who wanted to shift his “priorities” from spending so much time in the office to sharing a long-time passion for cycling with his family. So he set out to make high-quality bicycles and deliver them directly to customers. The company’s Priority Start 16 is ideal for kids graduating from a balance bike. Designed with kids in mind, it is grease-free and belt-driven (without the coaster brakes typical of other “big kid” bikes), while its frame is made of lightweight aluminum. And while it may seem like a high price tag, blogger Twowheelingtots rated it the "Best Bang for Your Buck" because of its solid "quality, lightweight build, and unique belt drive."
Training wheels ($29.99) and kickstand ($12.99) can also be purchased. For older kids, there are 20" and 24" models.
The Frog First Pedal bike is the best bike for early balance bike graduates, helping them to build confidence in their cycling abilities. It can also act as a balance bike for a taller child by simply removing the pedals.
If you want to stick to big-name bikes without exorbitant price tags, the Schwinn Koen is a great choice. The Koen features Schwinn's SmartStart technology, which means the bike is designed for kid-sized proportions—with the pedals closer together for an easy ride, a lengthened wheelbase (so kids' knees don't hit the handlebars) and reduced overall weight. It also features both a rear coaster brake and a front hand brake as well as a full-coverage chain guard to protect little hands feet and clothing. Includes training wheels, a saddle handle for towing and storage, a number plate and a limited lifetime warranty for as long as you own the bike.
For kids ages 3 years to 10 years. (Available in 12-, 14-, 16-, 18- and 20-inch wheelbase).
You may recognize Guardian Bikes from Season 8 of Shark Tank, where they accepted a $500,000 contingent offer from Mark Cuban. The mission at the heart of the company has been to create the world’s safest children’s bikes. Their patented and award-winning SureStop™ Braking System does just that to avoid head-over-handlebars or front-wheel skidding accidents that new riders can make. So how does SureStop work? It reduces stopping distance, distributes braking power to both wheels for better control and has an easy, single-lever system. We tested it out, and the bike does, indeed, stop a few seconds faster than other bikes, without giving us that scary feeling of propelling forward.
The bike has a lightweight aluminum frame, is available in its original AIROS version and an ETHOS model which is about $100 cheaper and comes in 14-, 16-, 20- and 24-inch rides (the 20-inch rides come in single-speed or geared options). For added safety, a certified mechanic sets up the bike, including a 34-step safety check. All that’s left to do is install handlebars and pedals and get riding.
Not sure what size to get your rider? Guardian's online RideSizer feature lets you enter your child's age and height and get a customized recommendation for which bike to choose—and how long it'll last your child.
For kids aged 3 years to 12 years, depending on the model.
This bike is made for fun! With a rear slick tire for epic skid stops, a front fork with suspension for jumping curbs and several color options to match each personality, the bike stands out in the 16” category. We especially love the banana seat for some retro fun!
Learning how to use gears is easy with this modestly-priced (but still not cheap!) seven-speed bike from Electra. Featuring the company's patented Flat Foot Technology, the bike is designed to let kids plant their feet on the ground—without leaving the saddle or being forced to balance on their tippy toes—when stopping. The lightweight, aluminum frame has a unisex design, so boys and girls can focus on selecting their favorite color (there are four different choices) while its solid construction means it'll make a great hand-me-down for younger sibs. It also features puncture-resistant tires, and a dual position crank arm, which allows parents to adjust the pedals to grow with kids.
If your kid is ready to tackle hills and start shifting, this bike is worth the splurge. Featuring eight gears (with easy-grip shifters), a lightweight frame, and Kenda off-road tires, it's great for exploring basic trails as well as doing all-day rides around town. It also has a low minimum seat height, which means your little rider can get in the saddle earlier (if she's ready).
Note: If you're reluctant to fork over the cash for this relatively high-priced set of wheels, just remember that TwoWheelingTots (in our opinion the best kids' bike blogger around) called this bike "the cream of the crop" and the "best all-around 20" bike" it tested.
New to the market, the Riprock features modern mountain bike tech for a safe, smooth and confident ride. The alloy frame makes it light and easy for kids to manage on the trail. There are 20” and 24” models featuring a rigid fork and the Riprock Expert 24” features a suspension fork.
Best Intro to Mountain Biking: Cleary Bikes 24” Scout
Cleary Bikes
The Scout is the real deal of kids' mountain bikes. When they’re ready to tackle trails, this 10-speed, purpose-built rig provides the ideal platform. The Scout is stable, lightweight and rips down flowy singletrack with ease.
Components were not overlooked; this bike features parts you’d commonly find on a well-equipped adult mountain bike. Disc brakes ensure precision stopping power, while the Suntor XCR Lo 24 Air fork provides a supple riding experience. The additional clearance of the Scout’s new shorter crankset makes rallying turns and hitting jumps even easier.
The Scout is built to take hits on and off the trails. It’s backed by Cleary’s lifetime warranty and can be handed down to future generations of riders.
The 24” Scout fits riders 50”-57” inches tall, with inseam measurements of 21.5”-26.5”.
Ages 7-10
Price: $840
Buy it here (currently sold out but you can sign up to be notified when they're available again)
Cool Kid on the Block—Mongoose Axios
Mongoose
The Axios series is a great option for ripping around the neighborhood. The frame geometry is based on BMX race frames so it’s engineered for speed. The single-speed drivetrain ensures you spend less time adjusting parts and more time having fun.
For Prevelo founder Jacob Rheuban, a father of two (and Red Tricycle Spoke contributor!), bikes and kids should add up to fun, ease and confidence. So 100% of Prevelo Bikes are engineered for kids, including positioning kids closer to the ground (for a confidence boost), short crank arms (for a comfortable ride with that lower saddle height), durable yet lightweight frame (think: steel and aluminum), rounded axle bolts (to avoid leg scrapes), third-party chemical testing (no phthalates or lead here!) and handbrake levers that are kid-sized (the reach is adjustable too). Prevelo has bikes that are good on the streets and bikes that are meant for the trails (the Zulu line is bona fide mountain bikes).
Because that kid-sized engineering is so key, the company offers a cool Factory Trade-Up Club ($69 for a lifetime membership), allowing you to move on to another model while getting 40% back from the purchase price of your previous Prevelo. You can trade up from the AlphaZero balance bike, for instance, all the way through to the AlphaFour 24-inch bike.
Ages 18 months to 11 years, depending on the model.
Available in a bunch of cool colors, you'll love the look of this cruiser bike that will take your teen from home to school and back. It’s easy to ride, worn-in comfy and designed for stable, vibration free rides. It comes with a rear rack and wider saddle for a more comfortable seat.
We love the retro styling of this Schwinn cruiser: It's got the look of bikes long gone, but the safety technology of today's industry standards. The 7-speed twist shifters provide precise gear changes, while the front and rear alloy V-brakes provide secure, reliable stops. Plus, the tool-free adjustable seat post and premium stitched spring saddle make it easy to find your perfect fit and a comfortable ride.
Trek Bikes wants your kids to enjoy biking just as much as you do, so they put the same amount of dedication and know-how into their bikes as they do to their adult bikes. This matters because learning to ride on a well-designed bike is both easier and more enjoyable, and when your little one loves riding as a kid they'll love riding forever. Each one of their kids’ bikes is made with durable, high-quality materials and assembled by a professional mechanic so you can focus on having fun with your little ones for years to come.
Trek's Precaliber offers a range of sizes (from 12”-24” wheels) and price points that fit just about any kid’s needs. Precaliber is perfect for beginners, neighborhood riding or just getting out and having a blast on two wheels!
Plus the benefit you get with every Trek kids' bike: Lifetime warranty, high-quality build and assembly, and their awesome trade-up program to provide parents a great value for when their kid grows out of their bike. When you buy a kids’ bike at a participating Trek retail location, you can bring it back within three years and get up to 50% of the bike’s original purchase price in credit toward the purchase of a new one.
This 7-speed trailer-cycle offers a great way for kids to get comfortable both with pedaling and with speed, all while remaining safely attached. It features a versatile 7-speed rapid-fire style thumb shifter, adjusts easily for growing children and offers superior stability with Burley’s patented aluminum ball-bearing guided hitch. Gotta love the safety flag, too. Talk about a fun way to get around town!
For kids ages 4 to 10 years (with a recommended 2-1 adult weight-to-child ratio).
A recumbent bike isn't the first thing a kid would think of for their new set of wheels, but this zippy little three-wheeler will have parents wanting to hop in the saddle, too (There's one for you, too, Mom and Dad!). Part go-cart, part bicycle, the Mobo cruiser lets kids sit back and pedal away. Voted a "Best Gift for Kids" by the Today Show, the Triton uses a rear-wheel steering system (you steer with your hands using levers on either side of the bike) and a single-speed gear. It's ideal for cruising sidewalks and bike paths as opposed to tackling steep hills or trails. And, with an adjustable frame to fit heights up to 5’2”, it'll last your kids into their teens. Frozen fans: there's even a special version just for you!
If you are looking for a bike that transports you, the kids, groceries and maybe even the dog too, a cargo bike might be the perfect purchase. Many have electric assist so it's smooth sailing for the parent pedaling, and there are tons of configurations that can definitely fit your family.
If you want to roll down the road or up hills with the greatest of ease, consider a smooth riding electric bike to gently push you along. Electric bikes are great for many reasons including reducing fossil fuels, making it easier to ride long distances or up hills and effortlessly hauling extra weight. Pretty much every kind of bike has been made into an electric version which makes the joy of electric cycling accessible to so many people in so many ways.
Feel like you’ve got a lot on your plate these days? Despite packed schedules and never-ending to-do lists, it’s important to find ways to be good to your body—whether that’s finding zen in a yoga class or choosing sleep over social media “doomscrolling.” Another simple way to support health and wellbeing is to give your microbiome some love with a daily probiotic.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the lining of your gut is covered in microscopic creatures, mostly bacteria. But don’t panic—many types of bacteria are helpful. These organisms create a micro-ecosystem called the microbiome. And the key to a healthy microbiome is creating a balance among the different species of bacteria in your gut
Probiotics Add Good Bacteria to Your Body
Probiotics are foods or supplements that contain live microorganisms intended to maintain or improve the levels of "good" bacteria in your microbiome—restoring balance and making you feel better. Adding some balance to a busy life? Yes, please!
Women’s health runs the gamut. You may be dealing with tummy troubles or worried about what’s going on down there after a long day in a bathing suit (the struggle is real!). One small act—like taking the #1 women’s probiotic^ Renew Life® Women’s Care Probiotic 25 Billion—can support your health in big ways. Made by women, for women, some of the probiotic strains in the Women’s Care Probiotic are clinically tested and shown to balance vaginal pH and yeast levels, and promote digestive, immune and urinary health.*
A woman’s gut and vagina have two very different microbiomes—this probiotic supports both. Consider it multitasking at its finest! In a nutshell—addressing your unique needs helps your natural rhythms thrive.*
With a diverse formula developed by microbiologists and researchers, Renew Life® Women’s Care Probiotic 25 Billion has more clinically studied strains than the leading brand,† including the #1 most-studied strain.‡ The delayed-release capsules help ensure the probiotics reach your gut alive.
Women’s bodies are complex—but incorporating this awesome probiotic is a breeze.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. ^Based on IRI unit sales data, July 2021. †PubMed Clinical Trials, August 2019. ‡L. rhamnosus GG strain, PubMed Clinical Trials, August 2019.
Uncertainty. Will the kids actually go back to school? Once they are back, will they be able to stay in school? What will the flu season look like? Will working from home become our new normal?
These questions and so many more have become a drumbeat in our lives–a constant thump that never really leaves us. We, adults, have all learned to live with it, perhaps normalizing or quieting it with the hectic balance of home-school, work, household, and community obligations. But, for our small people, whose ears are more sensitive than ours, this drumbeat of uncertainty may feel like the whole percussion section.
So, what’s a parent to do? There really is no end in sight right now, and our kids need to silence those cymbals so that they can learn, grow, and thrive. I know for my family, when the pandemic hit, we suddenly had more screen time enter our lives than ever before. I’m pretty sure we’re not alone in that. And now, eight months into this crisis, I’d really like to return to a more normal balance, but my energy is fast becoming depleted.
I don’t know any parent right now who has the bandwidth for a multi-day project recreating the Jurassic period by turning our bedroom into a prehistoric jungle-scape using all recycled and eco-friendly materials. But we can focus on what I like to think of as micro-moments of creativity—small engagements, maybe just once a day, that give us all a moment of connection and joy. Maybe we can sit with our kids for five minutes to glue some colored tissue paper into a lively collage. Maybe we can use breakfast time to make up a story together based on one of our favorite animals. Perhaps we can grab flashlights and have a mini-living room dance party for just one song per evening?
If we shift our focus from overwhelmed to just one micro-moment per day, how will that change our perspective? Our kids will have that moment of connection that grounds them. We will escape from the anxious buzz in our brains by focusing entirely on something different. And, hopefully, we will all fight uncertainty by bringing a tiny bit more laughter and imagination into our daily lives.
Nina Meehan is CEO and Founder Bay Area Children's Theatre and the host of the Creative Parenting Podcast. An internationally recognized expert in youth development through the arts, Nina nurtures innovation by fostering creative thinking. She is mom to Toby (13), Robby (10) and Meadow (5).
Today was one of those days when I was struggling. I had a bunch of work I needed to get done, I wanted to do a long workout to make up for not working out at all yesterday, I had cooking to do to prep for the next few days and Meadow just wanted to play with me. It’s so easy to write off these kinds of days—and I know all us parents have them—and just assume we will find moments to connect tomorrow. But, today Meadow was my teacher. We came back from a walk and she said, “Let’s find some pieces of nature, Mommy.”
So, we did. We went into the front yard. We crawled over rocks, looked under trees, hopped over puddles. At each spot, we collected leaves and sticks, and rocks. We looked at color and texture. We found unusual shapes and unexpected angles. We delighted over a particularly shiny pink-ish pebble. We exclaimed at the brightness of the colors on the leaves. And as we found each treasure we put it in a box.
Spending that time outdoors with her shifted my entire day. I was reminded, once again of the groundbreaking and amazing work of Pediatrician Nooshin Razani, MD who is prescribing nature to kids as part of her practice. If you haven’t heard of her work, check out this UCSF article or her amazing Ted Talk. Being in nature helps with anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress and so many other issues that so many children face.
Particularly, right now in the face of a pandemic, kids and adults alike are facing huge feelings of isolation and overwhelm. My family is very privileged to be able to access nature whenever we want and we talk a lot about how for many kids, that is not an option and we need to work hard to ensure that children in the future all have access to the beauty that surrounds us in California and beyond.
We finished our collection process with a new sense of ease and smiles. I wasn’t looking at my watch or checking my email. I was just out there observing, seeing, noticing with Meadow.
We came inside and Meadow carefully arranged each item on a piece of plain white paper with the detailed eye like you would expect to see on reality TV shows with celebrity designers. Each item had a specific place it needed to be placed. As I watched her work, and she consulted me on my thoughts, I couldn’t help but admire the ease she found in creating balance with the objects. The stick bends one way, so she found a leaf that bent the other way. The rock was pointy, so she found something round to balance it.
It occurred to me that maybe part of the reason that nature relieves stress is because it is by definition, in balance. There is nothing that needs to be changed or switched. Every item in nature is placed exactly as it should be. As we work to destress and declutter our lives, maybe all we really need to do is look outside more often and find the masterpieces in plain sight.
Nina Meehan is CEO and Founder Bay Area Children's Theatre and the host of the Creative Parenting Podcast. An internationally recognized expert in youth development through the arts, Nina nurtures innovation by fostering creative thinking. She is mom to Toby (13), Robby (10) and Meadow (5).
If you have a little one who is just starting out, what are the best ways to teach your kids to ride a bike without the tears or tantrums? We caught up with a few bike experts for insider tips to help get the family changing gears before you can say go! From how to prepare your kids to hit the pavement to what kind of bike is best for toddlers, we’ve got everything you need to know.
Psst…Earlier this week we published a story on the best kids bikes, tricycles and scooters for beginners. If you missed it, click here for the story or shop the bikes below.
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Do Your Homework According to Shane MacRhodes, Transportation Options Coordinator for the city of Eugene, OR, before you hit the pavement, it's important to check out a family cycling guide. The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition and the Portland Bureau of Transportation have great tips and tricks tailored to different stages of riding bikes with kids—from pregnancy to kids riding on their own.
Go Tandem with Teeny Tots Start out riding with the kids attached, whether in a trailer, bike seat or on a cargo bike. Not only will it get your blood pumping but the littles will get a first-hand experience at what it's like to be out biking around. Check out our top picks for the best cargo bikes for families here.
Get Them Excited: Pick Out a Helmet Let them be a part of the process by letting them pick out their own helmet. They can even adorn it with favorite stickers or decorations. The more they're invested in their own gear, the more they'll be willing to wear it when it counts.
Test Out Riding Indoors Does hitting the pavement sound intimidating? Help your kiddo adjust to the feel of a bike with its stationary counterpart. This can help them to not worry about falling and distract them from any fears they may have of riding!
Shane MacRhodes
Begin with a Balance Bike Start kids out on a balance bike; unlike training wheels, it teaches them what really matters, balance! Worried about the transition? It’s actually easier to go from balance bike to pedal bike. Balance bikes are also lighter so when beginning riders decide they’ve had enough scooting for the day, the long haul back home (think: you carrying the bike) doesn’t seem so far.
Let Them See Other Kids Riding We love that biking is a great social distancing activity. Our Editorial Director, whose toddler just learned how to ride a balance bike, took her son to watch other older kids ride their balance bikes. It wasn't until he saw the older kids push and glide that he truly understood how to do it himself (he was previously walking his bike, not understanding how to push off and glide). It was like a lightbulb went off and he then picked it up very quickly.
Size It Right Thinking of getting a bike that grows with your baby biker? Well, think again. If toes are even just this far off the ground, or the pedals aren’t quite so push-friendly and the handlebars are too much to handle—yup, not so fun—kids are less likely to want to ride as often. If you aren't sure what type of bike to get, check out our list of best kids' bikes for every age and stage. You can also go to your local bike shop to ask for their advice and get fitted.
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Know the Route & Choose the Right Surface Start on the multi-use paths, but don't be limited by them. Pinpoint the quiet neighborhood streets that connect riders to where they need to go because these are the roads less traveled (handy when starting with beginner bikers). Find out if your community has a bike map and route out a good ride. You can even try out Google Maps bike directions. Start short and simple and build up to longer, more complex rides.
And, be sure to pick a smooth, hard surface for when your kid is first learning how to ride a bike. Children's bike expert and industry veteran Isla Roundtree tells Cycling Weekly, "It’s tempting to choose grass as many feel it would aid a soft landing but that can make learning quite difficult because they will have to push quite hard on a small bike” she explained.
Our edit team thinks taking young tots to empty schoolyards is the perfect spot to learn how to ride. There may be other kids there riding their scooters or bikes, but since many schools aren't in session this year, the yards are fairly empty and provide a nice open space and smooth surface for beginner riders.
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The Price is (Also) Right Picking a quality bike also makes a difference in how kids enjoy the ride. Pricier versions are built for bumps in the road (both real and emotional!) and all you bargain buyers and sellers—the better bike has a higher resale value, every time.
Bonus Tip: Speaking of resale, be sure to scour sites like Craigslist, Nextdoor and Facebook marketplace to score fab deals on kid bikes, trailers, seats and cargo bikes. Find a great bike, but it's the wrong color? Decorate! Feel free to go crazy with stickers, colorful tape, straws, pipe cleaners and plastic flowers to make the bike all their own—just make sure nothing can get caught in the wheels or chain.
Go Back to School Try and find a family biking class in your area. If you can’t find one, look for an adult class like the League of American Bicyclists "Traffic Skills 101," it’s a crash course in the basics of confident, safe cycling techniques. Read: it will help you model better riding for your kids. Other routes including checking in with your local Safe Routes to School program for resources.
