Check out these tips to get started.

• Get the right scooter and gear

  Choose a scooter that is the right size and design for your child’s ability Three wheeled scooters are great for younger children who are still developing the ability to balance. If your child already displays the ability to balance and push with speed they may be ready for a two wheeled scooter. The handlebar height should be tall enough so the rider is not hunched down, but also not too high to obstruct their view. The deck should have enough space for the rider to comfortably rest their foot.

  

  
  Think about what you're wearing

  Hover over the photos for tips on what to wear

  Choose a scooter that is the right size and design for your child’s ability Three wheeled scooters are great for younger children who are still developing the ability to balance. If your child already displays the ability to balance and push with speed they may be ready for a two wheeled scooter. The handlebar height should be tall enough so the rider is not hunched down, but also not too high to obstruct their view. The deck should have enough space for the rider to comfortably rest their foot.

  

  
  Think about what you're wearing

  Hover over the photos for tips on what to wear

  

  Bright coloured clothing makes children more visible.

  

  Wear a helmet, it's compulsory in South Australia.

  

  Wear comfortable footwear with a rubber sole and laces tied. Rubber soles make it safer to dismount or make an emergency stop.

  

  Elbow and knee guards will help prevent injuries.

• Do a safety check

  Like a bike, scooters should be checked over before using. Hover over the scooter parts below for tips on what to look for when checking over scooters.

  

  Check that the stem is securely attached. Tighten any loose nuts, bolts, screws or levers.

  

  A faulty mechanism on a foldable scooter can cause the scooter to collapse unexpectedly. Unfold the scooter and listen for a click. Check that it is sturdy and locked properly

  

  Check the wheels spin freely. If not then check to see whether a small item is stuck there.

  

  Check that handlebar grips are intact and do not rotate. To avoid injury to the stomach in a fall replace the grip ends if they are worn or broken off.

  

  Check the brake and make sure it works well.

  

  Check that the surface doesn’t have any cracks and that the foot grip is in good condition.

  Follow the maintenance instructions of the owner’s manual. If you’re not sure how to fix it contact the manufacturer or ask a local business for assistance.

• Choose a suitable route and location

  Make opportunities for your child to learn and practice basic scooter control before they head out to busier places. It keeps them safe and gives them (and you) confidence. Make sure they can reliably follow your instructions in spaces where there might be traffic.

  

  Scooters sit low to the ground and typically have a small wheel that can catch on uneven paths.

  

  Scoot on a smooth, dry and flat surface with clear visibility.

  

  Remember - Practice tricks in the skate park not on the road. It’s safer for everyone.

  Riding a scooter on the road is not allowed where the speed limit is greater than 50km/hr.

• Be considerate of other people

  Scooters are mostly used on paths so it's important to look out for other people using these paths.

  

  Store your scooter in a safe place where it can’t be tripped over

  

  Be courteous and share the footpath with others

  

  Keep left when passing other people on the footpath