Ride Along
Riding with children (aged one to three) on your bike helps familiarise them giving them an idea of what fun it can be. It will give confidence to those who are a little intimidated.
For slightly older children there is the ‘Shot gun’ seat which is a seat, not harness, attached behind the handle bars.
Balance or Stryder Bikes
Nine months to one year olds can career around the house on a balance “bike” which had a wide sit on platform and three big wheels. A pedal car such as the Little Tikes Coupe, is good practice for peddling, (and a favourite for all toddlers and up – always the first to grabbed in the garden.)
Some two or three year olds start on a Stryder or Balance bike with 12 in wheels. There are no pedals, the feet and legs propel and stop the bike. Some balance bikes convert into pedal bikes.
Feet off …
So they have tricycled around the house and garden and nearby pavements, time for their to first bicycle with thick wheels and training wheels.
Of course how soon “we” are comfortable depends on age, height, and aptitude.
I was not very co-ordinated but was determined not be left behind.
Riding without stabilisers
Most parents remember how they were taught, and give it a go. Once the young rider’s second foot has left the ground, and wobbles off, I think most helpers scamper along beside but there are you tube videos in case you do not want to or can not run along.
A cursory glance through youtube throws up numerous ‘how to sites’. I have suggested Sustrans as a guide of where to go, also, a guide of how to ride without stabilisers.
Cycling UK, a charity gives some ideas for beginners, from an adult pov.