Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Sensory Processing Disorder Balance Bikes For Kids

Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful.

Sensory Processing Disorder Balance Bikes

Jeanette Loftus

child with sensory processing disorder on a balance bike Sensory Processing Balance Bikes

Sensory processing disorder affects up to 16% of school aged children and one of the most challenging symptoms is difficulty with motor skills. There can be many different reasons that your child may be struggling to learn how to ride a bike. They could be struggling with coordination, vestibular dysfunction, poor fine motor or gross motor skills, balance, body position, movement, or muscle weakness.

There are so many balance bikes and equipment to help your child to learn a ride. Some children start with 3 wheeled scooters to practice too. There are also Safety Trainer Handle Balance Push Bars to help your child learn to ride a bike. Some children may feel comfortable using a tricycle or scooter bikes. The great news is there is a special bike out there for every child.

Riding a bike is a great form of exercise with many benefits for kids. Learning to ride a bike without training wheels for children who have Sensory Processing Disorder can bring challenges. This is very common.

Our vestibular sense is our sense that is responsible for our movement and balance. An Occupational Therapist (OT) could assist you to help your child learn to ride a bike or work on your child's vestibular sense.

Balance bikes, also known as pre-bikes or run bikes, are designed without pedals. They are an alternative to traditional bikes for children. Instead of using pedals to move forward, balance bikes rely on the child's ability to push off the ground with their feet to propel themselves forward. This allows children to focus on learning balance and coordination before adding the complexity of pedaling the bike.

Balance bikes offer numerous benefits for children with sensory processing disorder. They are an excellent way for children to improve their balance, spatial awareness, and coordination. They also provide a gentle introduction to the world of biking and help build confidence in young riders. Balance bikes also promote bilateral coordination.

Doing some proprioceptive activities before your child rides their bike could also be helpful. (heavy work) Positive encouragement and praise while your child is learning to ride a bike is absolutely essential. It helps them gain confidence.

Balance bikes offer an opportunity for children to get outside and be active, promoting healthy physical development. They are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them accessible for children with motor skill challenges. As children become more proficient on their balance bike, they can easily transition to riding a traditional bike without training wheels.

While using a balance bike may seem straightforward, there are some tips to keep in mind to make the experience more beneficial for children with sensory differences.

Start slow: Children with sensory differences may require more time to adjust to new experiences. Start by having your child sit on the bike and get acquainted with it in a calm and quiet environment.

Use sensory supports: Some children may benefit from using sensory supports such as weighted backpacks or weighted vests while riding their balance bike. These can provide a calming and grounding effect, making it easier for children to focus on their balance and coordination.

Adjust the bike to fit your child: It's important to ensure that the balance bike is the right size for your child. Adjust the seat to a comfortable height and make sure the handlebars are at the correct level for your child's arms.

Take breaks: It's important to take breaks during sessions to avoid overwhelming your child. Sensory breaks can be helpful, such as a quick walk or playing with a sensory toy.

There is no specific age when children should start using a balance bike. Children can learn to ride a bike as early as three years old, some learn to ride a bike around five or six but there are children that take a little longer to learn how to ride a bike and that's okay too. Every child is different, and it's important to consider their individual needs and abilities.

Some parents may choose to introduce a balance bike earlier, as early as 18 months, while others may wait until three or four years old. It's important to monitor your child's development and readiness before introducing a balance bike.

It's very important to teach your child about bicycle safety and rules. It's the law that children need to wear a helmet. Using a helmet that fits properly with knee/elbow pads to prevent them from getting hurt, wearing a good pair of supportive sneakers are a must too. Wearing comfortable clothing and shoe laces that can be tucked in while riding their bike.

Children with sensory differences, can greatly benefit from using balance bikes. Balance bikes can also benefit children with other motor skill challenges, such as those with autism or developmental delays. They can also be helpful for children with physical disabilities, as they offer a more manageable way to learn balance and coordination.

I am asked often where to get a balance bike for children so I created a list of balance bikes that can help you decide which one is the best fit for your child and their needs.