From big to small, the options for ride-on toys are many! Here is a guide to sort out the best options for kids of all ages.

Rides Ons for Toddlers and the Under Five Set

Scoots, or simply ride-ons, have no pedals and are perfect for toddlers who are coordinated enough to sit and scoot around on these wheeled rides. They come in three or four wheel versions and are built with a low center of gravity to reduce tipping. Some are shaped and stuffed like stuffed animals for a cozy ride.

Powered rides for young children include the Power Wheels brand which ranges from name brand cars and licensed characters to over-sized SUVs and quads . Seat belts tend to be standard with most models and ease of use is appropriate for the preschoolers that fit in these fancy rides.

Tricycles come in varieties ranging from old fashioned red metal trikes with steps on the back to sleek modern creations made of metal, wood or plastic. Most of the models offered today have seat belt options and poles that attach to the back so that adults can push younger children with a minimum of back pain.

Adjustable seats on tricycles offer room to grow, allowing the toy to fit for more than one season. Some models have the ability to fold up for storage, flip to become low-riders, or come with attachable wagons.

Wagons these days are way more detailed than the flat metal options of years past. There are molded plastic versions with seats and cup holders and optional canopy add-ons creating a shady cozy place for a ride through the zoo or a trip to the beach.

The classic versions are available, and have additional options like slatted rails above the metal base . There are also miniature wagons perfect for stuffed animal rides.

Bikes and Scooters for Older Kids

For bigger kids there are bikes for every age. Not long ago there was one basic choice in a bike: training wheels or no training wheels. Now there are options for street bikes , mountain bikes , BMX bikes , and even motor powered bikes for kids big and small. Training wheels can be added to bikes at any point, but are standard options on smaller bikes aimed at preschoolers.

Bike stores will have a buying guide to show just what measurements should be considered when investing in a bike. Many bikes, especially those for young children, will have adjustable settings for handlebars and seats.

When alternate transportation is desired, there is the scooter. Classic models that are foot powered have been eclipsed in recent years with kids’ motorized scooters . Some of these powered toys are electric scooters and others are fuel driven .

Fast electric scooters are not suitable for all ages, though, so if you are buying for a younger child consider children’s electric scooters or the non-motorized versions.

Skateboards Develop Balance and Agility
Skateboards are a great option for those who’ve mastered the scooter with balance and ease. Skateboards in the 70s were very narrow a...

Because the winter holidays are fast approaching, the next few posts will highlight how to choose the right toy as a gift. Many adults have trouble knowing what toys are appropriate for what age. Don’t beat yourself up about this – even parents sometimes miss the boat on their own children’s abilities.

The truth is, picking the right toy can be hard due to individual differences as well as market confusion. For instance, the labeled “recommended age” on a toy’s box is not the most reliable indicator. This age is determined chiefly through insurance groups, meaning that the toy is safe for that particular age group. Whether or not the toy will appeal to the child’s educational level is another matter all together.

Also, children of the same age have not necessarily reached the same developmental level. Boys and girls, for instance, can be worlds apart in early childhood. Even children of the same gender learn at different rates.

So do a little research: if you are shopping for a nephew or niece who you have not seen for a year, make sure to ask their parents what their interests are. Parents seldom get asked what their children are up to – they usually have to go on the offensive for this conversation – so chances are they will have plenty to say.

If you feel out-of-touch with children but still want to make a favorable impression, another tactic is to do 10 -15 minutes of field research by watching a children’s television show. Commercials can illuminate ...