Use riding toys to help your toddler learn to walk

Riding toys develop motor skills and help babies learn how to walk. Here are a few hints to provide your child with the best experience.

Around the age of six months, a baby becomes increasingly mobile and begins to move independently. Some babies will sweep the floor with their bottoms while more daring infants will start toddling on their knees. Regardless of technique, your baby is already seeking autonomy.

Independence is the premise for learning to walk. Developing balance and strengthening their little legs are milestones on the road to walking, and riding toys will encourage their development.

It varies from child to child, but usually around the age of 10 to 12 months, a baby begins to climb furniture. They are attempting to develop and strengthen their legs and it’s at this stage you need to consider a riding and push toy.

Riding toys are usually designed to look like a car or truck. Your child will enjoy their newfound freedom while pushing along with the tips of their feet. The toy must be the right height and size for your child, so it’s important to bring your child with you when you buy it.

Remember that riding toys are also a game. Try to choose one that will excite and entertain your baby. Bright colours, a steering wheel and a horn will stimulate their senses.

After scooting around in the riding toy, your ambitious little one will feel ready to get up. This is an essential step to finding the necessary balance needed to start walking.

A riding toy should also incorporate a rear handle bar to allow the baby to push the toy forward.

Some riding toys are equipped with adjustable wheels. Depending on the surface on which the toy treads, you can control the speed. This is good for riding on varnished hardwood floors with little to no traction. Your baby is less likely to fall when cruising at a slower pace.

After weeks or months of training on the riding toy, your baby will feel ready to take a few steps without the aid of his toy. Riding toys develop coordination and promote self-confidence in children.

You’ll know you’ve made a good selection when your baby continues to play with the toy even after learning to walk. Ride-on and push walkers are primarily a developmental tool, but should also work double-duty and be fun to play with.