Teaching a child how to ride a bike can be an exciting and proud moment for parents and caregivers. We’ve created a list of resources to help you along the journey.
1. Start with the right bike and gear
Choose the right size
Choose a bike that is the right size for your child and make sure it’s fitted correctly. Make sure the bike also has a bell or horn which is required by law.
Balance bikes are an alternative for young children not quite ready for pedalling a bike. The child scoots along using their feet (as balance bikes have no pedals) which develops a child's balance, coordination and confidence.
What to wear?
Check out these videos for tips on choosing a safe helmet, how to do a bike safety check and putting together a new bike.
Choosing a Safe Helmet | Way2Go Bike Check | Build your child's bike better |
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2. Choose a suitable learning and practice location
Quiet local parks are a great place to start. Road Safety Centres run by Local Council or South Australia Police also have facilities that you may be able to use. Local Councils can also provide advice on sealed off road bike paths in your area. Below is a list of some possible practice locations. Google to find contact details and call ahead to check availability.
Venue | Address |
Road Safety Centre Port Pirie | David Street, Port Pirie |
Whyalla Road Safety Centre Inc. | Corner of Plum Street & Billing Street, Whyalla |
City of Tea Tree Gully Road & Cycle Safety Centre | Hazel Grove, Ridgehaven |
Children's Road Safety Centre | Fifth Street, Millicent |
Golding Oval Reserve | Corner Redhill Road & Kalina Avenue, Para Vista |
Mayfair Ride Safe Park | Mayfair Drive, Andrews Farm |
SA Police Road Safety Centre | TBA New site under development at West Beach |
Traffic Education Park | Robertson Street Reserve, Reynella |
3. Break it down
Patience and small challenges will build your child’s ability and confidence. Focus on one or two skills and give them an opportunity to develop them before moving on. Providing a safe place to practice will make it safer as they learn. Download Developing basic bike handling skills activities guide for teachers and parents brochure for how to teach basic bike riding skills. More tips:
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4. Keep it fun
Be sure to make it a positive experience for your child so they want to keep riding.
5. Ask an expert
If you don’t feel confident riding a bike yourself or teaching your child a qualified instructor can take you through everything you need to know or just give you some help with particular skills.
Check out
Local Councils often run learn to ride courses. Contact your Local Council to check if they have a course right for you.
6. Maintenance
Remember, just like cars, bicycles need maintenance to remain safe to use. Check with your local council or bike shop for further information about bike maintenance courses. Check out this video for basic maintenance tips.
Planning ahead can help you choose a route according to your confidence level, traffic conditions and local facilities.
Check out the Cycle Instead Journey Planner for a user friendly online tool.
For more tips and resources to plan the trip to and from school.
For more information on cycling specific rules download The Cycling and the Law booklet
Check out these story books about safe bike riding.