What's the best vacation for kids, specifically a 9 and 11 year old?

best bikes for kids age 9 image

Jenna K

If money wasnt an object, and I wanted to take my 9 and 11 year old on a week trip, and I wanted it to be something FUN, memorable, learning experience, as well as a bonding experience where should I take them?

Answer
Yellowstone National Park is pretty awesome for a week

Orlando or California theme parking, they are a good age for that.

A cruise on carnival or disney.

Oahu- go snorkeling, kayaking, biking tours, visit the memorial, parasailing, etc.

A river rafting or ocean kayaking expedition with a guide is a must do.

It'll all be fun if you don't overschedule, do goofy stuff, and don't stress trying to get too much done during your vacation.

What age do kids normally learn to ride a bike without training wheels?

Jazmyn

My daughter is almost 7 and doesn't know how and is scared she will fall. I'm just trying to figure out if she is behind other kids.

Answer
It is just fine that kids are learning at 4 or 5, but 7 is not too old either. There are so many factors, most of which are exposure and opportunity, that come into play. The avid rider's kids may ride much more often than someone else's so that one kid has 40 hours on a bike by age 4 when it takes another child to age 7 to get 40 hours. My main point is not to be concerned with being behind; many kids learn up to age 9, with the average age being around 6.
If her fear is really preventing her from trying, suit her up with helmet, elbow and knee pads. Tap the pads while on her so that she can know what it feels like. Be silly about tapping the pads, like it hurt your finger or something.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Does anybody know where I can buy a Spongebob Squarepants Toddler Bicycle online?

best toddler first bike image

Angie

My son's birthday is next month and I want to get him a Bike, preferably a Spongebob toddler bike.

Answer
I haven't seen any spongebob squarepants bicycles, for toddlers, you can try the following websites. I don't think I'm much help.

How many hours approximately do you play with your toddler? What activities do you do together?

rammoosh

My toddler is 18 months. I work 3 days a week. On my days off I feel terrible whenever I see him playing alone. How many hours is enough for us to catch up while giving him free time and what fun activities do suggest for us to do? I love him to death, but don't know what to do other than reading stories and singing songs.

Answer
First of all, it's good for him to play alone - he gets social time at daycare on your days of work. It's important for him to be able to entertain himself and develop an imagination.
This is what I do - I let him play on his own while I do things like dishes or laundry, then we play together for a while, then I let him on his own again. I would say (I'm a stay at home mom) I spend about 4-5 hours doing things with him - this might include a walk, or playing out in the back yard. I also got a great book with preschool type suggestions in it and I pick something to do each day - they are mostly simple things, like we talked about "in and out" one day - I took an old oatmeal container, cut a hole in the top, and had him put some goldfish crackers in the lid - saying "in" each time. Then I had him shake them out onto the floor saying "out", etc. I took the same box the next day, tied about 4 scarves together, stuffed them in, and let him pull them out while I held it (hold the top on) and he thought that was hillarious - he was half way across the room pulling and pulling.
Simple things like stacking blocks, or banging on pots with spoons are very important learning tools for your son - just get out some stuff from the kitchen and see what he does - show him how to pretend to cook. I also take out a bunch of stuffed animals and we have an animal parade while making all the animal noises as we go - it's great fun. I like to make a fort with chairs and blankets and we eat snack in there and just hang out - he thinks it's great. I also love to go out in the sand box with him and show him what to do with sand. Also you can "make" a water table out of the bathtub or some buckets in the back yard (make sure you are supervising) and help him dump and fill up cups, etc. Even a 15 minute walk down the bike path near our house is fun - we take sidewalk chalk sometimes, sometimes we throw rocks, sometimes we look at bugs or play with sticks.

There is a lot to do.
Here is a link to that book - I love it and it gets my immagination going for more ideas.
http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/seo/ca%7CsearchResults~~p%7CGT664~~.jsp

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What's a good way to teach a child to ride a bike?

best kids bikes training wheels image

Sit'nTeach

I am a nanny and am working with a set of parents who really think it's time their daughter ride her bike without training wheels. She's definitely physically ready and has good balance, etc., but doesn't really seem confident in herself and won't concentrate. If we stop taking her out she gets upset because then she can't get her brand new purple bike, but if we do take her out, she purposely wobbles the bike. We've tried talking to her and we hold onto the back of the seat while she rides. Are there any other tips you could offer? Nothing mean and nasty about pushing the kid--the parents have decided on this approach with the child (and the mom's a child psychologist so she knows what she's doing), I just need to take her outside every day and "practice" until she gets it... Any suggestions?

Answer
We spent a great deal of time trying to teach our son to ride his bike. Riding on grass helped quite a lot, as did spending a lot of time running along holding the seat while he got used to balancing and pedaling and steering at the same time. We also found practicing for short periods often helped keep everyone from getting too frustrated. The reality is most kids won't do it until they are ready emotionally - the physical readiness usually comes long before the emotional readiness. Good luck!

What age do kids typically start to learn to ride a bike?

Mikey's Mo

Sorry for such a silly question, but I'm just not sure.

I have a new toddler bike with training wheels for my niece. She is 2 now (3 in September). I'm not sure if she'll be able to start riding this summer, or if I should wait until her birthday or Christmas to give her the bike so she can ride next summer. Or, is 3 even too young?

Thanks in advance!

Answer
She can probably start riding now, depending on the size of the bike. You want a bike that is correctly sized. A child will go through several bikes. There is not a one size fits all. My kids are on their fourth set of bikes and they are 8 & 9. They began riding at 2 1/2. One was riding without training wheels at 3 1/2 and the other at 4 1/2.

I was without training wheels at 3 1/2 too.

It's easier when they are young. They have less of a fear. Only with age do we develop fear.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What to use for a 14wk baby and 2 yr old in a bike trailer? Helmets too big and car seat won't fit!?

best kids bikes amazon image

Aimee

I have a bike trailer for my two babies but I don't know how is best to keep my 14week old safest. A helmet won't fit until at least 18 months and her car seat won't fit in with my 2 year old as well :0( Don't want to be stuck in a stuffy, hot car all summer so would really like to keep fit and take them out on the bike! Help!! Thanks in advance :0)

Answer
The infant in the car seat cannot ride with the toddler -- so just get a bicycle child seat http://www.amazon.com/Bell-Classic-Bicycle-Child-Carrier/dp/B000ISXSSA for the toddler -- kid will be much happier being up there behind you and watching around the road. Also should be available at Target, locally.

Where can i buy bmx bikes without brake lines?

Brian

I want one of those bmx bikes that have no brake lines and you break by pedaling backwards. Anyone here know where I can buy those?

Answer
Wal-Mart or Academy.

If it has coaster brakes it's not a real BMX, it's a kids bike. If however you're set on getting a real BMX and having a coaster brake you can order a coaster brake rim, I think I saw some at DansComp.com and I know for sure Amazon will have a few.

That being said if you want better quality and a coaster brake Haro's Z-Line of bikes, while still kids bikes, are at least better quality. They're still bottom rung for Haro, but bottom rung for Haro is out of reach to Yoa Ming if he's standing at the top of the Wal-Mart/Academy ladder.

----update----

I took a nap and it jogged my memory, you can get 20" Skyway Tuffs's with a coaster brake. I looked on the PlanetBMX website and only blue remains, but I'm throwing in a link below. If you want high quality and durable (and weight isn't your chief concern) these are one of the best ways to go. If you want style get a white, red, or maybe yellow frame and put a blue seat and grips on to match the wheels. If you really want to go for style get tires in a color to match the frame, at 20" size you can do that, unfortunately I can't find red 24" tires to save my life :-)

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What to use for a 14wk baby and 2 yr old in a bike trailer? Helmets too big and car seat won't fit!?

best bicycle trailer for 2 kids image

Aimee

I have a bike trailer for my two babies but I don't know how is best to keep my 14week old safest. A helmet won't fit until at least 18 months and her car seat won't fit in with my 2 year old as well :0( Don't want to be stuck in a stuffy, hot car all summer so would really like to keep fit and take them out on the bike! Help!! Thanks in advance :0)

Answer
The infant in the car seat cannot ride with the toddler -- so just get a bicycle child seat http://www.amazon.com/Bell-Classic-Bicycle-Child-Carrier/dp/B000ISXSSA for the toddler -- kid will be much happier being up there behind you and watching around the road. Also should be available at Target, locally.

If you are strongly interested in science, will you please answer my questions about tornadoes?

Q. 1. Do huge tornadoes, like the one in Oklahoma today, happen in Saskatchewan or Alberta (two provinces in Canada)?
2. If you knew a tornado was coming, do you have enough time to get into your car and drive away? I am moving into a trailer park out of town and there is nowhere to hide (due to not having a basement). Is it safe to get as far away from the town/area as possible?
3. Do yo believe that government can actually cause these storms to happen? Do you believe that the storms are this big because the government wants to lower their population? Please let me know your thoughts on those conspiracy theories.

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer these.

Answer
no the goverment isnt causing them. In certain parts of the country YES you can drive away because the roads are set up N S E W and STRAIGHT. You can drive SSTRAIGHT aaway from anything but in the most of the coungtry, the roads loop around and raods are NOT NSEW. (north south east or west). It depends where you live. Also, buy a bicycle helmet and keep near your designated storm shelter to protect your head. I actually also have ropes to tie my kids to my body and tie us to the faucet (which is cemeted into the ground) incase we have a tornado here.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

does anyone know any cheap but good good quality bmx bikes?

best kids bmx bikes image

jamil w

My mom refuses to buy me a good quality bmx bike because i usually break them because they are not good quality. Shes not cheap because she just bought me an ipod touch. does anyone know where can i get a job at 15?

Answer
First off:

Your mom is just like every other good mom on the face of this planet. She doesn't want to let you get involved in something dangerous or expensive in hospital bills. She may also be concerned that you will become one of those dead beat hippy bmxers that wont be able to take care of her when she gets old. Either way she doesn't realize that limiting your physical activities to jockish teem sports increases her chances of raising a complete dutche bag.

So
Second of all:

Tell your mom you don't want an Ipod, and beg for the bmx bike. To sway the argument hit her with bargans from the internet like these:

http://rochester.craigslist.org/bik/1237706907.html

http://rochester.craigslist.org/bik/1236439631.html

http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/bik/1256971506.html

http://sporting-goods.shop.ebay.com/items/BMX-Bikes__bmx?LH_Auction=1&_catref=1&_dmpt=BMX_Bikes&_fln=1&_sacat=98082&_ssov=1&_trksid=p3286.c0.m282&Brand=Eastern%7CFBM%7CFit%7CS%2526M%7CStandard

All of which will beat ther F out of buying a brand new bike from a bike shop or dans

but if shes to prissy for a deal just go for dans and make sure you get a complete where the frame is 100% 4130 chromo.

http://www.danscomp.com/serve.php?serve=html&html=bikes.html

Lastly:

thousands of immigrant kids died back in the late 18 to early 1900s so you wouldn't have to. so enjoy school, and take it seriously. but if you need some spare bux start asking for cash for holidays and birth days. You can also start working extra hard around the house to guilt trip the parents into doling out a bigger allowance.

so stay committed to the cause and see if your friends can help you get into bmx if they can.

I have been trying to find out if it is against the law to use profanity in Oregon around children?

Lacy

My son goes to the skatepark by our house, and the high school boys have been using every cuss word in the book around him, and directly to him. They threaten him, and I am worried. I have considered not letting him go anymore, but he truly loves riding his bmx bike and razor scooter there. I want to know if there is a law against using the language that they use around the younger kids. I live in Oregon.

Answer
If its against the law to say profanity around minors? would that help your situation? The word Bitch can mean female dog and the word Dick can be someones name (excuse me if I offended anyone). Its not enough cause to stop from high school kids from bullying your son. Are you with him while this is happening? if not maybe you should pay a visit and stay with him.These kids may not have anything to do or go and find your son an easy target.Take a video camera and record him, possibly be a lil sneaky and tape the boys you suspect in bullying your son without them knowing or realizing it.
Although make your presence known don't be intimidated but also you shouldn't be rude, kids learn by example. If your son is uncomfortable with this idea then you need to tell him to stay home if you don't wish for him to get bullied or worse. This I say since I'm not sure how the neighborhood is like on your end.
I really cant imagine my kids not being able to enjoy the park. I hope this is short lived and resolved quickly, till then keep him company while he skates and don't leave him alone, you can be discreet about it by sitting a few feet away and taking a book and "pretending" to read.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How long could it take me to get proficient at biking?

best kids road bike image

Bridgitt L

I barely learned how to bike ride as a kid, and now I'm planning on getting a hybrid bike for road biking and trail biking. I'm looking into biking to cross train with for cardio, and for transportation as well. However, I had trouble with balance as a kid, and never really completely graduated from having training wheels taken off. If I learn how to ride at a park with my dad helping me, and I go out and practice on my own, with training wheels, how long do you think it could take before I'm ready to ride in traffic or around town. My goal would be to bike at a vigorous pace for an hour or two. Plus how many calories would it burn? I looked up the calories and it depends on your pace, speed, and weight. I heard biking at at least 14 mph, and maybe going on some hills or hilly terrain burns a lot, or changing up the resistance.
I'm not looking to lose weight. I'm already at my perfect healthy weight, thank you very much. I am a runner, and was looking into cross training. I also swim, and have been taking a spinning class etc.

Answer
"How long could it take me to get proficient at biking?"

How hard do you want to work at it?

"Plus how many calories would it burn?"

Same answer: How hard do you want to work at it?
See link. Fill in the required blanks & click on Calculate. None of the "calories burned" charts are 100% correct. It's all a "best guess". Ride more - eat less.
http://www.bicycling.com/caloriemain

what are the bikes that people ride in bigger cities?

Justin

I was in San Francisco, and i saw a bunch of young, like college kids riding pretty cool bikes. they were like road bikes without lever brakes. I'm just guessing that they have coaster brakes. can you give me what they are called and some sites to go to to find one? THANKS..
yeah, that hipsters ride with only one gear.

Answer
Those are called "fixies" or fixed gear cycles.

They only have one gear and no free wheel. So the rider must move their legs constantly and user their legs to help slow the bike. By law they should have ONE lever brake on the bike.

These bikes are often home-built and modeled after track bikes in the gearing. One hipster dude I know has a cog, diff size on each side of his rear tire. Going in to work it's downhill, so he flips the quick release tire and rides the high gear. Coming home, flips and rides low.

But not everyone rides those. You'll see all kinds from road bikes to MTN bikes to beach cruisers on the street. In Europe, however the bikes are less aggressively styled and more functional... like they are designed to be ridden by normal people in normal clothes! Heh heh!

In the US we like to wear tights and hunch over and attack the commute. Get there!

Fixies are a hip way to go retro and sleek and sorta experience the racers life... show cahones attacking hills on your fixed gear with no escape on the other side but to hang on and peddle to keep up.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Tips for babysitting 6 children with a friend?

best toddler girl bike image

Julia

Hi I am 15 years old and I was asked to babysit 6 children, and to ask a friend. I asked my family friend who is 19 years old so both of us will be babysitting the kids.
The ages are 7, 5.5, two 4.5, 2.5, and 10 months old.
Only two of the kids are girls.
Supposedly they are all easy children.

Any tips to handling everyone? Activities we could do to keep the busy, etc? How to stay organized?

Answer
First of all, I would split up the kids. For instance, I would take the kids that are 4.5-7 (all of whom should be more independent), and I'd ask the other sitter to take the 2.5 year old and the 10 month old. You could also ask the other sitter to take the 4.5 year old, leaving you with the 5 and 7 year olds. Or vice versa (you could take the younger ones). I prefer caring for the older children, so I have listed for you the way I would go about this.

If you are caring for the infant and the toddler, you'll want to make sure that you are watching them around the clock, and keeping them happy. Play with toys, get down on the floor, be interactive.

For the older kids...it really varies on "handling them". Do these children get along with one another? That is usually the biggest problem...sibling rivalry. I usually bring along with me board games, crafts, and maybe a ball.

This one ball can be used for indoor games like monkey in the middle, silent ball, or even hot potato; and also the typical outdoor games. Crafts can be whatever you want to make out of them. With that many children, I'd keep it simple. I bought a great "Spin Art" kit from Meijer which was a huge hit. I also like the "Color Wonder" paints (no mess!), though crafts are endless in possibilities.

How will the weather be? With four kids, tag is great. As is hide and seek (which can also be played indoors). Then of course there are the typical outdoor games (Football, etc.). Ride bikes, shoot hoops, possibly put together a scavenger hunt.

Also if you are indoors with the older kids, you could always make a fort! They normally LOVE that!

Of course keep all of the children fed and well cared for. If this runs into the evening, I usually would bring the kids in and calm them down an hour or two before bed time. Watch a movie. That is a great way for the kids to unwind and get prepared for bed. Read books to any children that request it, and get them to bed! Once they are sleeping soundly, enjoying the rest of the evening for yourself, but be sure to check on the kids frequently.

Best of luck, and have fun!!!

~ Kris

What does your toddler want from Santa for Christmas?

gg

Lol...my daughter is 22 months. She is constantly saying that if she is a good girl, Santa will bring her:

1. A bike, and
2. Grapes!

Lol...got any funny stories?

Answer
My son almost three wants a little tikes piano from santa and gordon (thomas the tank engine train) and some more train tracks. I can't wait to see his face when he sees the rest b/c he thinks that is all he's getting. He doesn't realize mommy and daddy buy for him as well.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Where can I get a fairly inexpensive bike trailer?

best little kids bikes image

Q. I really could use a bike trailer to transport my mellophone to and from football games, parades, ect. I really don't have all that much money to spend on it but, security isn't really a huge issue since I would not be carrying little kids or anything all that breakable. I also really don't care if the trailer is used or new.

Answer
Check on ebay or Craig's list for a used baby trailer.

How old should my son be before getting his first dirt bike?

cat

My husband was riding his own bike before he was able to ride a bicycle with out training wheels but I don't know if I'll let our son do that which starts fights between me and the hubby. I've been out plenty of times to the desert and oceano dunes and it never seems safe but my husband insists it is for a little kid.

any suggestions on age?

Answer
I had my first dirt bike a 50 cc at 8 1/2 by the time I was 11 I was racing motocross*

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What are some good babysitting ideas?

best toddler bike with parent handle image

Aqua

Im going to start babysitting and I need some ideas. And im new at babysitting. So I just want little crafts, fun snacks,.games, and activities I can do with them. All ideas are appreaciated. Thanks in advance!

Answer
What ages are you planning to babysit? How old are you?

Take first aid classes first. You'll need to know CPR, what to do if the child chokes, and other basic safety BEFORE your first job. It would be helpful for you to take babysitting classes, for things like changing diapers, giving a bottle, etc.

I'd say be a "mother's helper" at first, where you stay with the kids while the parent is in the house. That way you can understand more about how to take care of kids, instead of jumping right into being alone with kids; this is especially if you're planning on babysitting more than one kid at a time. It's harder than it seems!

I'm going to include a lot. You probably know a lot of the safety info, but I don't know your age so I'll still include it. It's still good to know! :)


SAFETY TIPS:

Newborns/Young Babies:

I would not recommend babysitting young babies right off. Get used to older babies first. If you do babysit the young ones, here's some info.
Bathing:
With the young babies, talk to the parents before bathing them. If it's necessary, they'll teach you.
Safety while Playing:
The house should already be babyproofed. Just never leave the baby alone, even if you just need to go to the bathroom. If the baby can roll over alone, it can roll off a couch. Honestly if you're always with the baby you'll be fine.
Feeding:
If it's a bottle have the parent teach you how to give a bottle and burp the baby. If the baby is eating finger foods, basically just be close to him/her so that if the baby chokes you're right there.

Toddlers/Preschoolers:
Just don't leave the kid alone for long. You will be amazed how quickly a child can get into something it shouldn't be in. For eating, it's simple- stay next to the child. If you go outside, don't look away from the child.

For kids older than preschool, you can probably handle safety fine. Know where the bandaids are? :)


GAMES AND ACTIVITIES:

Little Babies (Birth to about One):
Sing, hum, or rock the baby. Talk to the baby. With young babies, toys aren't especially useful. I find that babies don't particularly care about toys that young. Around six months or so, toys are more fun because the baby can focus on them.

Toddlers (One to about Three):
Toddlers usually have enough toys that they will find something to play with, and you can just join them. When they get bored, bubbles are almost always a hit. Just remember, some parents don't want bubbles used in the house. You'll have to ask the parents before they leave to make sure.

Preschoolers (Four or Five):
Creative games are great for preschoolers. They can dress up, or you can play pretend school so the kids can "teach" you something they know. Firefighter/Policeman is always fu,n because you gt to run around and pretend to catch the "bad guy." Coloring, decorating cookies, chalk, anything like that is great.

Early Elementary (Six to around Ten):
These ages can help you think of something they want to do. Bikes are good. Girls at the higher end are often into trying out makeup, so if the parents approve you could get kid-friendly lipgloss and such to play around with. The kids will tell you what they want to do, though.

Any kid older than this will either do what they want on their own, or tell you what they want to play with.


Any Age:

A fort! Everyone loves to help build a fort out of blankets and chairs! You can build a fort any way you want to, so it can also become a prop in an "imagining game." Say you were playing as knights and princesses, a fort can become a shield! Even reading a book is more fun under a fort!

Bake something- This is something to wait until you're really comfortable babysitting a child to do, but can be really fun. Everyone works together, but if you make cookies you can all decorate your own as well.

Dance! I don't know many kids that don't enjoy dancing, and they would love it if you join in! But be warned: Loud music can get some kids extremely hyper, in which case they aren't going to listen too well. It's still fun :)

Play outside! Sports, sidewalk chalk, the sprinkler, a snowman.. Go for a walk! As long as you watch the kids closely outside is a great place to release some energy and have a great time!

Movie night- If you make a fort, it can be great fun to lie under it to watch a movie. Popcorn is okay for older kids, but not usually for kids under two or three. Talk to the parents before making the kids something like that.


Babysitting can be really fun, but is a large responsibility. Don't jump right into it until you know what to expect, and ask the parents as many questions as needed. Make sure you can contact them, and you'll be fine. There are plenty of sites that can help as well. Good luck, and have fun!

Need advice about my soon to be four year olds behavior?

jessica

My son is three and will be four in about three weeks. He just recently became a big brother about six months ago. He's always been the "Whiney" type of kid, but in the past few weeks it has gotten so extreme and out of control. I really am not sure how to handle it at this point. I am not sure why it has gotten worse because I am a stay at home mother and still give him a whole lot of attention. I can't bring him out anywhere it seems without him having a full blown tantrum, and even to take a bike ride ends in tears for some reason or another. It can be as simple as me telling him to get to the side of the road, or to pick up his toys, things that never were an issue.. And shouldn't be. I haven't changed my parenting. He still gets time outs with no exception when he talks back and gets "quiet time" in his room at the start of a tantrum. If anyone can maybe give insight on what I should do please

Answer
Toddler tantrums are a painful experience, for both parent and child. But tantrums are a well-understood problem with known solutions. John Rosemond has one of the best solutions: http://readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=398825. Of course the solution is hard, but the problem will become a nightmare for you if you don't meet it head on. Good luck.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What bike should I buy 6 year old boy for first bike?

best selling kids bikes image

Q. He's a little guy and kinda puny but I totally do not want to get him some "character" bike like spongebob or something. A grown-up big kids bike. Please be specific as possible. Thanks

Answer
I just got new bikes for my 5 year olds. We ended up getting a smaller size BMX style bike that has coaster brakes and hand brakes. That way they can start getting used to the hand brake but not have to rely on it. Once their hands get used to the hand brakes I'm going to switch out the coaster brake for a freewheel then the bike should last another couple years.

I would definitely get a 20" wheel (the standard size for bmx bikes) bike so they can grow with it for a few years. If you get anything smaller than that they will be grown out of it before the year is over and you'll be getting a new one for him to ride to school.

If you go to a real bike shop that sells trek, specialized or other name brand bikes they will have some you can look at and they really aren't that expensive when you look at kids size bikes.

I completely agree - avoid the cartoon bikes. They are silly and a waste of money.

can you still buy kids motor cycles legally? lead poisoning in metal parts?

Daniel J

i saw in news paper there not selling kids motor bikes because of lead in the metal parts. is this dangerous? can you still buy used bikes?

Answer
Every car and motorcycle contains some lead (think battery, for example) so ALL children's motorcycles and atv's from every manufacturer have had to be pulled from the market.

The original intent of this law was to keep young children from swallowing or chewing toys that might contain lead, a knee-jerk reaction to all those leaded Chinese toys. The only part of a motorcycle which might flake off and be swallowed or inhaled is the paint and it contains no lead, but so far this has not been enough to grant motorcycles an exemption, even though all kinds of other lead-containing products have been granted one. The case is under appeal, but in the meantime no bike dealer can sell kids motorcycles new or used.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What kind of helmet should I get for my mountain bike?

best helmets for kids on bikes image

Michael

I want to get a helmet for my bike, so I was wondering what I should get. I ride my Globe mountain bike down the channel to the ocean right now, but I want a cool helmet for when I ride in Yosemite in the summer. I was looking at a few of the Pro-Tec models, and I fancy the Cyphon and B2 model looks, if it helps. Thanks for reading!
Just an aside, what is considered a lot for a bicycle helmet?

Answer
Just make sure the color matches your bike. Haha just kidding.

Looks don't matter. Fit matters. All helmets are pretty much the same in terms of protection... IF they fit you properly. Go into your local bike shop and try on a few. There are so many, you're sure to find one that fits and looks cool.

What kid of bike is good for an adult beginner?

tothepoint

I never learned how to ride a two wheeler as a kid just a tricycle.

I've tried the Giant Suede and the Schwinn Town and Country Trike and was looking at the Townie. $500 is about my price range.
By tried I mean I hopped on and sat on it while the saleswoman held the front wheel. The trike I was able to get on an d go obviously =D

Answer
You will have to judge if a three wheeler will meet you needs.

I will tell you how to learn to ride a two wheeler. Buy a low cost Dahon folding bike and get a bike helmet. Drop the seat way down so you can stand up while sitting on the seat. Wear your helmet and long pants. Go to a local park during quiet hours when no one is there. Drop the seat on the Dahon so low that it can be used as a scooter with both of your feet flat on the ground. With helmet on and riding in the soft grass in the park walk around with your weight on the seat and getting the hang of the steering. Don't use the pedals at all and in fact they can even be removed from the bike. When you get too far leaned to one side use the leg on that side to right yourself and start again. This will take most adults about 1-2 weeks of visits to the park to get the hang of it. After a while you will be able to coast and hold your legs off the ground for several seconds before the bike loses speed and leans over. At that point you can try to actually start pedaling.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Is it safe for a toddler to ride on the back of bicycle? Won't my toddler get hurt if I crash by accident?

best toddler bicycle helmet image

nyc_villag

I plan on both of us using helmets but accidents do happen. Those little carts that a bicycle pulls aren't very safe either , are they?
My toddler is only 14 months old. Getting a little bike is not an option. :-(.I also would be riding along side my son who is almost 5 years old.
The side car seems like an option :-)

Answer
There is always a risk of injury on a bicycle. The carts more safe than the bicycle seats, since the child has less space to fall if you tip over. Trailers that go in the back can be dangerous, since they have a low profile and are not easily seen by motorists.

My chiropractor is into cycling and just did a 600 mile run with his wife and two boys this past summer. They use a side car for the above reasons.

What's a good bicycle trailer for a baby/toddler?

Schnatzel

Answer
Unfortunately, you can't put a baby in a bike trailer. Even with a helmet, it's not safe. All the trailer manuals say you can't use them with a child under 1 year old. (It's for the same reason a child that young can't ride in a forward-facing car seat.)

The two commonly available top-of-the-line models are Chariot or Burley. The Chariots are nice because the front wheels--the ones you'd use if you were using the trailer as a stroller--go UNDER the rider's compartment instead of out front like the Burley.

That said, I have a double Burley. It was on super-sale at REI, and we're members, so we got it for half-price.

My 4 year old and 2 year old love it.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How do you ride a bike without training wheels?

best kids bikes with training wheels image

Linda

I am nine and I can't ride my bike without training wheels! I have not rode it in years.I really want to ride it because I don't have any training wheels and I got a brand new bike that is my favorite color. I didn't want to until I went to the park and saw my friend and I was chasing her while she rode a bike without the spare wheels. Now I really want to! I will try her way tomorrow after I get to my house, but if I can't hang on to her way i'm taking my scooter to the park. If her way doesn't work, best answer deserves a lot of credit.

Answer
Well first of all, training wheels are for little kids. I doubt they even make them in a size you would need.

But actually training wheels are obsolete. The new way to teach a kid to ride a bike is what's called a 'gravity bike' (and I have NO idea why it's called that. It makes no sense to me. But that's what they call it.) What you do is take the pedals off a bike. You lower the seat so you can put both feet flat on the ground. Then you push the bike along with your feet. They make bikes for little kids that don't have cranks or chains or anything, just two wheels and adjustable seat height.

You push the bike along with your feet and learn to balance and steer. After not too long you could coast down a mild hill with your feet off the ground, you can steer by leaning without putting your feet down. Then you're ready for a real bike with pedals.

Training wheels will get you pedaling and all that, but you're not really learning to ride a bike, which has to do with balancing and steering. It's something nobody can teach you, you just get a feel for it.

The 'gravity bike' idea has resulted in kids learning to ride at a much younger age. In my day we all learned around 5 or 6 but these days I see three year olds on bikes! Which I think is great! I've never heard of a nine year old learning that way, but why not? A person your age actually has better balance than a five year old, so it should be even easier.

Riding a bike is a lot of fun! I do it almost every day. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Get a helmet, though, and expect to fall two or three times before you get good at it. It's all part of learning.

How do you teach a kid to ride a bike with no training wheels and can't balance that great?

Brown Suga

My niece is five and very clumsy and she just got a bike for Christmas with no training wheels on it. What the best way to teach her to ride it? Do I start with balance without her riding the bike first or what? Thanks!

Answer
Hold the bike and run with them while they ride the bikee. After a few rounds of that then try letting go only if you think they can do it by themselves. Try to practice on a flat surface and have grass on on side so that if they fall they have a 50% chance on falling on grass.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What age for children is a good age to start cycling?

best bikes for kids age 9 image

Q. My kids are 12, 9, 4. They all have bikes, and love riding, but any actual rides? I don't know.. once I get more into it I would like to take them along but when should they be able to handle it?

Answer
I think 9 is a good age. Depends on gender too, my 9 year old sister is loves it but I think a boy being stronger would keep up on hills and stuff better. Good luck and God bless!

Do your coworkers ever show you pics of their kids?

Q. Does it get on your nerves, too? I honestly don't care what little Johnny or Susie is doing now, nor do I want to spend any amount of time at work looking at the resemblance and thinking of the horrible lives these poor kids are going to have when they grow up to look like their incredibly unattractive and lazy parents. How do you politely tell your coworkers that no, their kids aren't adorable, you're not impressed that they can ride a bike at the ripe age of 9 and they should get some work done for once in their miserable lives?

Answer
wow, you clearly aren't a parent!

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What should I do for my triathlon for kids?

best bikes for kids age 11 image

Jake Foste

We go biking one day, running the next, and swimming the third (ages 7 - 11). Any good routines for the swimming portion. We do "workouts" (no extreme) in the water for halt an hour then play games in the water or on the field.

Answer
Light gymnastics by the pool side before going in (stretching exercises and such). Then lengths in the pool from a few per day, to more, progressively.

What are some fun things to do in Burlington, VT with kids?

gamma05772

My two daughters ages 9 and 11 and I will be in Burlington, Vermont for a few days. I've never been there before. What are some fun things to do there? We were planning on going on the bike path by Lake Champlain, and a tour of Ben & Jerry's, and the teddy bear factory, and maybe a boat ride on Lake Champlain. Any recommendations for a boat tour that would last a couple hours ? They love nature so activities centered on that would be great to hear about. Thanks.

Answer
WE took in the Fall the SUgarbush Express train from Middlebury, VT to Burlington. It was 1.5 hours and the same back. Good foliage. Burlington has had street performers in the past, but It's been 5 years since I went last. THere are plenty of restaurants, even one that allow you to order your specific breakfast, omelets to order, waffles freshly made and topped, etc. SHopping. Lots of hilly areas so be prepared. UVermont is there. Check the AAA guide or Mobile guide. I think they had paddle boats at one time too. You can cross into NY and go to Fort Ticonderoga.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How to calm my nervous horse on out rides?

best bikes for kids image

Kai

II bought a 7 year old mare from a farmer who used her for general farm work. She has a big scar in the front of her chest and is a little sensitve on this. I think that she might have ran into wire as she was living on a cattle farm. Other than that, she has not been mistreated or hurt. She was sleeping in the veld and slept inside a stable for the first time in Nov when I bought her. She has a lovely personality. She doesnt bite, kick, buck except se might be a bit lazy. She goes like a dream when I work her in my grass arena.I've noticed that she also freezes when there are something funny/new, like the fly masks or having a blanket on. With the blanket, she frose for about 10 min while I put it on and fixed the buckles all while talking to her like I do normally. After a while she relaxes and starts eating her hay again. I have no problem after this and she wears her blanket without a problem. My problem is out rides. She gets very nervous. And not with the usual bikes, kids, motor bikes, cars ect. My friend rides with on her TB and he gets a little strung up every now and then. Funny thing is, this is when she is calm. She just ignores him and will even pass him and cary on walking. She gets nervous when there are other horses around like the neighbours horses comming to the fence to say hi. This is when she freezes. When I push her forward, she backs up and then wants to run. Luckly I've stopped her but then she is really nervous and starts shaking. A friend sugessted I get of and lead her pass the scarry things. I cant get off because when she "unfreeze" she backs up and she pulls me into the air and then she is really nervous. As long as I ride her, I can manage her and she calms down much easier. I've tried leaving her untill she "unfreezes" herself but this takes a while sometime and this make me nervous. She is 15.3h and I'm tall but she still manage to drag me off my feet when she spooks. Andy ideas how to fix this?

Answer
Hi my horse is seven and was scared when trail riding. I had my mum or friend lead her past them when I was still on the horse. Hope I helped bye

Are 50cc gas powered dirt bikes legal for kids aged 13?

William

I'm 13 years old, I've been thinking about getting a gas powered dirt bike for kids, there are trails about 40 blocks away from my house, I plan on riding there, doing a jumps, and riding back. Is it legal to do that?

Answer
XYZ is correct as are the others.
Your parent will have to haul the bikes the 40 blocks to the trails. You cannot operate this on the road. Illegal.
I will give you credit for asking before making the decision to spend money on a motorized toy.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What type of bike should I buy?

best kids mountain bike reviews image

Ben

I lost my old bike when i moved (even though, now it would be too small for me to use). I'm 13 year old boy and i'm bigger than most kids my age. I want to save up money to buy a new bike. I'll ride the bike around my neighborhood which doesn't have many steep hills or anything like that. So which type of bike should i buy and about how much would it cost?

Answer
Ben,

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/town/recreation/navigator/navigator_1_0
What you plan to do is admirable. Set a dollar goal and spend within what you can afford. I think you should consider getting a Trek or Specialized bike because their local bike shops are accessible pretty much anywhere in the United States, which comes in handy. A single speed bike can be a good choice because not much can go wrong when your bike is simple. You can get more bike new, getting a single speed. You can get used off of Craigs list. In either case adult presence will serve you best. Single speed bikes can be road based or offroad. Road bikes are more towards speed, handling and opportunity to hot rod. Mountain bikes tend to be heavier with knobby tires. They are best suited for trails though they can be fitted for on-road use. A good cross between mountain bike and commuter bike would be the Trek Navigator. I have ridden this bike, its fun.

My suggestion is to read all you can about the Trek Navigator. Then look at other brands and compare. Trek's consumer reviews are an easy find, others not so much. Check with your parent(s) then ask a leader at a church/temple or mosque if you can work and earn money for a bike. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Best.

Best place to buy a bicycle online?

Rick

I realize that the best place to buy a bike would be from a local bike shop, but the closest shop is more than fifty miles away from me and I have no way of getting there. The only alternative would be to buy a pre-assembled bike from Wal-Mart which I'd never do for obvious reasons. So does anyone know of a good place to buy a bike online? I'd rather pay extra and receive a properly assembled and calibrated bike by post.

Answer
Amazon.com I would say would be the best place. You can look at what others reviewed about the bikes and you can also get a warranty. I have an older model of this bike that's on Amazon and it's amazing!
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B008O2FUNS/gepcpr-20

The Diamondback Brand Mountain Bike really will just glide under your feet and absorb the bumbs, it's worth every penny!

You can also check out your local pawnshops, but I would look into the ones near the college campuses. Here in Austin, TX the ones near the campuses have brand new bikes kids pawned off to get beer money and party supplies.. or bills had to be paid.

Happy Hunting! ^_^

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

I have a 7 month old baby. At what age would be appropriate to go bike riding together?

best toddler balance bike image

Heids

In his own baby seat on the back of my bike ?

Answer
There is no set rule for this but most biking experts will recommend waiting until 1 year of age. This is because infant helmets are only made for and tested on children 1 year and up. Younger children may lack enough neck muscles to support their head and the extra weight of a helmet. Even if they are riding in a bike trailer it still requires good muscle control and balance to keep themselves from jolting around in their seat too much.

You should NEVER let a child ride on a bike without a helmet. Even if you are not used to wearing one it is very important that your child does... they are much more fragile than adults and the statistics on bike related injuries and deaths for children clearly show this. If you don't wear a helmet yourself you should start. I never did until I started taking our 1 year old on bike rides. I wanted to be a good example and actually after a few times I really didn't even notice the helmet anymore.

One more note: make sure you read the instructions with your helmets carefully to get a proper fit. When it comes time to fit one on your child it will help to do it in front of the TV or other distraction since it is not the most pleasant experience for a toddler to feel like they are being poked and tugged at (once it is adjusted they will get used to it quickly, though).

Good luck and happy biking!

Can anyone recommend a baby helmet to soften falls?

tonymonton

We got her one, but she won't wear it because it falls over her eyes. Any suggestions?
for those of us who don't see the wisdom in fall protection, try this.. Fall head first onto a hard floor. If you still don't understand the trauma this causes to a baby, repeat until convinced.

Answer
I have been a mom for 28 years to 4 kids who are now 28, 26, 23, and 10. I am also grandma to an almost 12 month old grandson who has been working to perfect his toddling skills for about a month. Additionally, I have provided child care in my home for 20 years. Unless your baby has a medical condition necessitating a helmet a child who is developing at a normal rate does not need one. Falls and the accompanying bumps, bruises, and cuts are part of the learning experience and while I won't say never, I will say will rarely cause any permanent or long-lasting damage. I have never heard of a child with a permanent injury as the result of a normal childhood fall. Truthfully, most of the falls will cause various facial injuries rather than head bumps anyway. Right now I have my almost 1 year old grandson sitting on my lap with a bump above his eye that he got earlier today when he fell against a toy while practicing his walking skills. It caused a few tears, but some snuggle time and a kiss to make the "owie" better and he was up and trying again. One of my 2 year old daycare children has a scratch on his check no doubt received over the weekend in some toddler mishap. When babies are learning to walk they will naturally put their hands out to balance themselves and thus to catch themselves so they are not landing with a full impact on their heads/faces on the floor nor will they fall straight back, but usually fall on their well-padded little bottoms. In my many years of experience with infants and toddlers, the only child who needed a helmet was not for safety reasons but was a molding helmet to help with plagiocephaly, which is the misshapen head that some infants get. I am sure that you love your daughter very much and want to do what you can to protect her, but a helmet is really unneccessary unless she is riding on the back of your bike in a child seat or in a bicycle trailer. ADDED: It is just a part of life that babies fall while learning to sit or walk. The majority of the time it is not their head that hits the floor first. While learning to sit simply place pillows around her while she practices the balance skills she needs. While learning to walk, most falls are backward to the bottom. Frontwards falls are usually absorbed by the torso and the arms. Bumps to the head are typically not caused by falls but rather by running into something such as a door knob, a coffee table, or the kitchen table.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers