I don’t remember how we learned about the Strider Balance Bike. If I’m being honest it’s probably something my husband uncovered during one of his rabbit-hole research binges that keep him awake at night. All I know is that I have pictures of 19 month-old Griffin smiling big while Adam is opening up the Strider box and putting the balance bike together.
Although he might not have learned to actually coast on it until he was closer to two, Griff loved having the freedom that came from taking his balance bike on all of our walks. It might have taken us forever to get anywhere at first, but it ended up being worth it.
Not only is the Strider Balance Bike super lightweight and easy for little ones to use, it also helps them learn the hardest key to actually riding a bike, balance. They get used to the feel of a bike, without needing the ability to pedal (which can be pretty hard at such a young age.)
Griff and Owen rode their Strider bikes everywhere. And I mean everywhere! We took them on walks, to trails along LKN, on the biking path at the Whitewater Center in Charlotte and any time we went on a long road trip to visit the grandparents. Since there aren’t any pedals, the balance bikes are easy to throw in the back of the car without taking up much room.
The Strider bikes became a side character in our adventures. It was easier to go on longer walks and better trails because the kids didn’t have to walk, and we didn’t have to push them. That honestly meant a lot less complaining, which made the whole family happier.
Anytime we met another family that had Strider bikes for their kids we knew they were our kind of people. Parents who are comfortable encouraging their children to have some freedom, while simultaneously guiding their growth and development.
Once our kids outgrew their Strider bikes and were ready for pedals it took less than ten minutes to get them riding a bicycle. Both also rode bicycles early at four and half years old. And I credit that entirely to the Strider balance bike. I highly recommend them for all you mamas out there! You can purchase it here on Amazon. Don’t delay!
