6 Best Toddler and Preschooler Scooters, Tested by 5 Families

The best toddler scooters are beginner-friendly and make it simple for little ones to get their bearings. According to Pamela Skinner, MSOTR, an occupational therapist clinical specialist, “larger wheels, wider handlebars and wider decks are also features to seek out when choosing a scooter for an inexperienced rider, as they offer more support with balance.” Phillips-Walker agrees, saying: “Wider wheels provide more stability but less speed.” The Radio Flyer Glider Jr Scooter stood out as the overall best scooter for toddlers because it has all of these features and then some. In particular, the five-inch wheels are the largest of any toddler scooter we tested, which provided a stable base for little ones to start scooting on.

My 2-and-a-half-year-old daughter had no trouble stepping on, balancing and steering this Radio Flyer scooter. Similar to the popular Micro Mini Kickboard, it features lean-to-steer and stomp-to-stop technology, but this model feels even more tailored to beginners. For instance, braking was more straightforward with this scooter because of the way the base is designed. The slightly angled deck helps naturally position a toddler’s foot closer to the rear brake, encouraging good posture and balance. This is particularly useful for navigating sidewalk bumps or stopping in a pinch. Also, the handlebars are smooth but ergonomically shaped and nonslip, so they were easy for her to grip.

Throughout the testing process, I was seriously impressed by this scooter’s maneuverability. From patio stone gaps to carpet to slippery wood floors, it performed well on every surface. The ride was smooth and surprisingly comparable to alternatives in a higher price range. Plus, the lean-to-steer mechanism was effective and responsive; my daughter had no problems picking it up after gentle direction.

Moreover, this Radio Flyer scooter is simple to put together, and it felt durable after assembly. We did run into some issues adjusting the handlebar height, and wished the scooter folded for easier travel and storage. Speed was also a concern, as my daughter hasn’t yet mastered slowing down at intersections. Kids can really fly on it, but, as I previously mentioned, the brakes are effective and easy to activate. All in all, this scooter’s great size, quiet rolling and light-up wheels (no batteries needed) make it a clear front-winner.

Dimensions: 22.5" (L) x 9.5" (W) x 29.5" (H) | Weight: 5.1 lbs. | Weight capacity: 44 lbs. | Age range: 2 to 5 years

As your child graduates from toddlerhood to preschool, they’ll need a slightly different scooter to keep up with their growing abilities. Preschooler scooters tend to be narrower, taller and have smaller wheels, allowing more experienced scooter-users to pick up speed while continuing to improve their balance and gross motor skills. The Banwood Scooter surpassed the others as the best preschooler scooter, and impressed our tester, Brittany, and her almost-4-year-old from the get-go.

Brittany’s preschooler took to the Banwood immediately, thanks to the intuitive lean-to-steer system and low, grippy deck that made balancing a breeze. “My son loved getting on this scooter, and the foot spot and handles are both grippy and easy to grab. There’s the perfect amount of space for his feet, and it’s easy to put his foot back on the brakes and use them,” she explained. The mom of one also appreciated that the height of the handlebars was simple to change so that her son could grow with it in the years to come.

What’s more, Brittany couldn’t get over the quality of this scooter. Highlights include the premium materials (a combination of aluminum, oak, rubber and wicker), the solid construction and the super smooth ride. Whether they were on even pavement or bumpier roads, Brittany reported that her son was able to scoot with ease. Its classic, stylish look and the included wicker basket also stood out during testing. This beyond-chic scooter feels like the kind of thing you buy and pass down to your next kid—and then your friend’s kid. It’s that well-made.

The only downside Brittany shared with us was the scooter’s white wheels. While they’re eye-catching and cute out of the box, they get dirty and scratched up quickly. Thankfully, it’s just an aesthetic issue, not a performance one. “They will still last and could be used for a long time and by siblings,” she says. While the Banwood Scooter is an investment, Brittany would recommend it to other preschool parents based on its quality, performance and ability to be used by multiple kiddos.

Dimensions: 11.7" (L) x 3.8" (W) x 27.6 to 31.5" (H) | Weight: 6.2 lbs. | Weight capacity: 110.2 lbs. | Age range: 3+ years

I was genuinely surprised by the value the Gotrax KS1 Kids Kick Scooter offers at such a reasonable price. Throughout testing, the scooter felt sturdy and well-made, especially for its cost. In particular, my 2-and-a-half-year-old was a big fan of the front and rear light-up wheels, and I appreciated how easy it was for her to balance and navigate when scooting. She loved zooming on this model and was able to glide over a patio surface despite stone breaks. She picked up speed easily, found the lean-to-steer functionality responsive and really raced on smooth terrains.

The rear brake on this scooter is easy to press, though new riders will need some coaching. (My 2-year-old stomps on the rear brake to stop and has a little trouble maintaining her balance as she does so.) I especially appreciated that the handlebar stem pops out with the press of a button, allowing it to stow in two parts in my stroller basket or closet—a huge perk for city families with limited space (or patience!). Disassembly is simpler than folding alternative models, giving the Gotrax a clear edge and giving me plenty of reasons to recommend it widely.

While the Gotrax KS1 was mainly smooth sailing, there were a couple of shortcomings in the design details. Both of my little ones were intrigued by this scooter’s unique built-in compass, which would have been a really engaging learning tool. Unfortunately, it didn’t work properly, so they lost interest in this feature quickly. Moreover, the handlebars weren’t the most comfortable, with deep grooves that could trap debris, but my toddler didn’t complain. Overall, these felt like small trade-offs for the mileage you get from this affordable, solid scooter. I could see it lasting for multiple kids!

Dimensions: 22.5" (L) x 11" (W) x 31.3 to 34.8" (H) | Weight: 5.7 lbs. | Weight capacity: 100 lbs. | Age range: 2 to 8 years

Our community says:

As a city mom constantly juggling gear, snacks and little ones, I love that the Micro Kickboard Mini Deluxe Foldable LED scooter folds down in seconds and fits neatly into the basket of our UPPAbaby Cruz. I needed my husband’s help the first time I tried folding it, but I felt silly afterward—it’s actually pretty intuitive. You just press one side (not both!) of the rubber-covered button at the base of the handlebar stand to release the lock and fold it up. For that reason and more, it stood out as the best foldable scooter for toddlers that we tested.

When riding this scooter, it took my 2-year-old a few weeks to get the hang of the lean-to-steer and tap-to-brake systems. To brake, toddlers have to stomp on the rear wheel cover with their back foot. This can be a challenge, since it requires a bit of balance and movement beyond their line of sight. It definitely took some coaching (and modeling from her older brother), and a few weeks before she could master it solo. And once she did, she cruised off beaming with confidence. The wide, low-to-the-ground deck was perfect for her as a beginner to step on and off independently. She started out waddling with a foot on each side, but the raised, slip-resistant logo helped her find balance, whether she was in socks or sneakers.

The Micro Kickboard Mini Deluxe Foldable Scooter delivers both convenience for parents and pure joy for toddlers. My daughter instantly fell for the bold purple color and the front light-up wheels. She reminds me regularly that they’re magical—and they really seemed to be during an after-dusk ride home when the lights helped brighten the way. While I wish this scooter went a bit slower and had a handle (or parent kickboard to keep up with!), I love watching my 2-year-old feel free, breezing by in a swirl of purple. With its sturdy build, adjustable height and speedy ride, I can see her holding onto this scooter well into preschool—and it’s easy to see why it’s so beloved.

Exclusive offer from The Bump: When checking out at Maisonette, use code BUMP10 for 10 percent off orders of $50 or more if you’re a new customer.

Dimensions: 21" (L) x 4.5" (W) x 17 to 25" (H) | Weight: 4.2 lbs. | Weight capacity: 110 lbs. | Age range: 2 to 5 years

If you’re constantly schlepping gear to and from school, the playground or loved ones’ houses, the Yvolution Y Glider Kiwi Scooter might just become your new favorite mode of kid transport. While it doesn’t fold in the traditional sense, this preschool scooter features a clever, quick-release handlebar that pops off with a single click—no force required. According to our tester Shayla, this was tricky for her 4-year-old to do independently, but a breeze for adults. The mom of one found it surprisingly easy to take apart, making transportation and storage much less of a hassle. “The shape is simple with no awkward or protruding parts, and it’s lightweight enough to carry comfortably with one hand,” says Shayla. “I really appreciate the quick-release handle—it makes transport and storage much more convenient than I expected.”

The ride quality is solid, too, thanks to thoughtful details like the low deck and the wide rear brake. “[My daughter] could step on and off without help and was able to balance quickly, though turning was a bit tricky for her at first. She accidentally used the brake once but hasn’t needed help operating it. The deck was the perfect width for her age and had a stable, non-slip surface,” shares Shayla. Moreover, the lean-to-steer mechanism was intuitive for her 4-year-old, and she found it easy to use right away.

Designed for kids ages 3 to 8 years old, this preschool scooter is complete with a handlebar that can be adjusted, so you won’t have to replace it after a growth spurt. Better yet, Shayla told us that it’s highly sturdy and she expects to pass it down to younger siblings. “The materials, especially the deck and handlebar stem, seem sturdy and built to last through regular use,” she says. The bottom line: Shayla would highly recommend it to other parents, not only because it’s well-designed and complete with light-up wheels, but also because it’s, of course, super straightforward to store and transport.

Dimensions: 21.3" (L) x 10.6" (W) x 30.5" (H) | Weight: 5.5 lbs. | Weight capacity: 110 lbs. | Age range:

Families looking for a scooter that will meet their child’s needs from toddler to preschooler years can count on the Razor Rollie DLX. Its clever 2-in-1 design allows young riders to start off scooting with a comfortable, padded seat and transition to a traditional stand-up scooter as they gain confidence. The seat is easy to attach and detach, requiring no tools. According to our tester, Sasha, “it takes a total of 30 seconds to take off,” making the conversion process straightforward for parents.

Sasha’s 3-year-old, who took this model out for a spin, especially liked having a seat to take a load off. “My daughter’s feet touched the ground even when she was seated, which was nice and something she liked,” Sasha told us. “She said she liked having the seat so she could ‘rest her feet for a bit,’ which I thought was cute!” The mom of one loved how simple it was to adjust the handlebars to her child’s liking. “Even my daughter was able to move it up and down and told me where she wanted it,” she shares.

Once the scooter's in standing mode, it stays stable. With three wheels and a tilt-to-turn steering system, it offers a smooth and controlled ride, helping toddlers develop balance and coordination. The wide deck provides ample space for little feet, and the rear fender brake is easily accessible for safe stopping. “I was a bit nervous it would be hard for her to balance, but the way the scooter is built, the balance part of it was not an issue for my 3-year-old,” says Sasha. They both loved how soft the foam handlebar grips were—and, of course, the multi-colored rainbow lights which decorate the wheels and, uniquely, the scooter deck. During testing, Sasha told us: “I let her ride it before bedtime so the sun was setting, and she thought the lights were so cool.”

While the Razor Rollie DLX is slightly heavier than others, Sasha found it easy to tote on outings. “One thing I love about this scooter is how lightweight and easy to carry it is […] even with the seat,” she says. As previously mentioned, the handlebars are adjustable, though the scooter’s low maximum weight means you might need to upgrade to a bigger model before your child maxes out on the handlebar height. Nevertheless, this versatile set of wheels is an excellent investment in your child's early scootering adventures. “I would buy this scooter for myself. The fact that you can ride the scooter 2 different ways, and the wheels and bottom of the scooter light up, is worth the money,” explains Sasha.

Dimensions: 21.9" (L) x 11.4" (W) x 27.6" (H) | Weight: 6.6 lbs. | Weight capacity: 43 lbs. | Age range: 2-and-a-half to 4 years

Our community says: