Page 14 - Wonder Woods Parent Handbook

7. Balance Bikes

Wonder Woods has balance bikes available to our children
within our woodland.

Characteristics:

1. No pedals
2. Both feet can be placed on the ground
3. Small wheels (usually 12in)
4. Light weight (compared with pedal bike)

Balance bikes are not only fun, great exercise and exciting to children; they
develop gross motor skills, encourage independence and promote confidence.

Cycling is an environmentally friendly and sustainable form of transport that we
actively encourage. We want children to have the freedom and independence to
access our balance bikes when they choose.

We will:

1. Maintain our bikes – we ask that if you cycle to Wonder Woods then please
leave your child’s bike at the gate.

2. Only use balance bikes, not pedal bikes, because:
i. They are appropriate to all children at our nursery
ii. They are easier to maintain
iii. They are easier for children to control
iv. They are lower to the ground, lighter weight than a standard bike
and tend to go slower

3. Provide, encourage and support children to wear a helmet. We will not stop a
child from using a balance bike without a helmet during normal use. For
example, on flattish ground in the woodland, not racing others. We are happy
for children to bring their own helmet with them.

4. Ask your child to wear a helmet if they wish to extend ‘normal use’. For example,
ride down the cabin ramp; ride over a raised beam, race.

This guidance was created October 2022 in consultation with staff and parents.
The following document was reviewed: Balance bike injuries: A retrospective chart review with the
Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health 2022