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6 Best Toddler and Preschooler Scooters, Tested by 5 Families

Highly durable and easy for little ones to balance and scoot on, these are the best toddler scooters on the market, tested and reviewed by five families.
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Updated June 4, 2025
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In a nutshell:

Based on first-hand product testing conducted by five families, survey feedback from more than 400 parents and expert advice from a pediatrician and occupational therapist, we chose the Radio Flyer Flyer Glider Jr. Scooter with Light Up Wheels as the overall best toddler scooter. It stood out because of its beginner-friendly design, including large wheels and an easy-access brake. We also chose the Banwood Scooter as the overall best preschool scooter, due to its premium durability, easily adjustable height and classic style.

As a Brooklyn-based parent of two kids (ages 2-and-a-half and 5), I’ve been a Scooter Mom for years now. Whether my children are burning pent-up energy in our apartment building’s hallways or heading to the fenced-in track at our local elementary school, scooters have long been our family’s primary—and deeply beloved!—mode of movement. They don’t just get kids from point A to point B; they seriously deliver on freedom and fun.

Whether your little one is just starting to scoot or is slightly more advanced, most experts agree that scooters offer clear benefits for toddlers and preschoolers. “Scooting requires a combination of balance, coordination and strength—all of which contribute to the development of a child’s gross motor skills and engage muscles that are essential in walking, running and sports,” explains Alexis Phillips-Walker, DO, a pediatrician at Memorial Hermann Medical Group Pediatrics in Atascocita, Texas. To help you find the best model for your little one, five families with toddlers and preschoolers (including my own) tested out the most popular scooters for a range of ages.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Toddler and Preschooler Scooters

Image: Brittany V., Sasha W., Elizabeth N.

To streamline your search for the best toddler or preschooler scooter, The Bump editors conducted extensive market research and identified the 15 leading options on the market. Taking a hard look at parents’ needs and the features and functionality that each set of wheels offered, we then created a shortlist of 10 products to test. From there:

  • Five families, including my own, tested a total of 10 scooters with toddlers and preschoolers of various experience levels on a wide range of terrains. After using them around parks and playgrounds, on city and suburban sidewalks, on backyard patios and even inside on carpet and wood floors, we then evaluated each across testing categories. These included ease of setup, general ease of use, ease of riding, carrying and storage, durability, design and style and, of course, value for money.
  • We surveyed over 400 members of The Bump community and asked about the scooters they’ve used with their families. We then asked parents to rate specific brands and products based on their experience.
  • We researched what was being said about scooters for toddlers and preschoolers in The Bump forums—as well as parenting forums and message boards across the internet, and customer reviews—to learn what parents liked (and disliked) about certain brands and styles and understand how these models have worked for families nationwide.
  • We interviewed an occupational therapist and a pediatrician to better understand the physical benefits of scooting and key features to look for at different stages.
  • We considered several factors—like dimensions (folded and unfolded), wheel size, handlebar adjustability and weight capacity—when choosing which scooters to feature in our article.

Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.

Best Toddler and Preschooler Scooters

Overall best toddler scooter

What We Love
  • Large, five-inch wheels
  • Easy-access rear brake, according to our tester
  • Great suspension for a smooth ride
Things To Consider
  • Doesn’t fold or lock
  • Handlebar height is tricky to adjust

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.

Image: Elizabeth N.

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

Our product tester says:
“I was super-impressed with this scooter's performance relative to more popular brands. It offers great quality, value, color waves and ride with a price that reflects what you're getting without being outrageous.”

Buy Now

Overall best preschooler scooter

Banwood Scooter
Image: Ten Little
What We Love
  • Easily adjustable handlebar
  • Premium-quality design and materials
  • High weight limit
  • Wicker basket included
Things To Consider
  • White wheels get dirty easily
  • High price point

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.

Image: Brittany V.

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

Our product tester says:
“It’s great quality, and has a classic, stylish look. The color, cool basket and tilt-to-turn steering makes this a really nice option [for preschoolers].”

Buy Now

Best budget-friendly toddler scooter

Gotrax KS1 Kids Kick Scooter
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • Affordable price point
  • Easy for toddlers to balance on, according to our tester
  • Simple disassembly for flat storage
Things To Consider
  • Compass didn’t work properly
  • Handlebar grips aren’t super comfortable

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.

Image: Elizabeth N.

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 product tester says:
“I can't get over this scooter's price! For under $40, you get light-up wheels, fun colors and a fast ride that’s incredibly simple to disassemble on the go.”

Our community says:

It’s easy to ride and the wheels light up. - Sammie, mom of three and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Best foldable toddler scooter

Micro Kickboard Mini Deluxe Foldable LED Scooter
Image: Maisonette
Buying Options
Maisonette|$144.99
What We Love
  • Simple to fold, carry and store
  • Slip-resistant deck is great for beginners
  • Easy for toddlers to step on and balance
Things To Consider
  • Rear brake has a learning curve
  • Kids can pick up speed on it quickly
  • High price point

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.

Image: Elizabeth N.

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.

Image: Elizabeth N.

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

Our product tester says:
“Not a day has passed since we got this scooter that my daughter hasn't begged to ride it. Her biggest complaint is that I insist we fold and bring it to the park rather than ride it down city streets. For me, it’s so convenient!”

Buy Now

Best storable preschooler scooter

Yvolution Y Glider Kiwi Scooter
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • Quick-release handlebar for easy breakdown
  • Durable materials, according to our tester
  • High weight capacity
Things To Consider
  • Tricky for little ones to fold independently

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.”

Image: Shayla M.

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.

Image: Shayla M.

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:

Our product tester says:
“It’s well-suited to [my daughter’s] age, encourages confidence and performs just as well—if not better—than higher-priced scooters we’ve seen. Overall, it’s a great investment for a preschooler learning to ride.”

Buy Now

Best scooter with a ride-on seat

What We Love
  • Seated and standing scooter options
  • Very easy to assemble, according to our tester
  • Multi-color LED lights in wheels and deck
Things To Consider
  • Slightly heavier than alternatives
  • Low weight capacity

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.

Image: Sasha W.

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.”

Image: Sasha W.

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 product tester says:
“In the past 2 weeks, my daughter’s confidence on the scooter has increased, which is so fun to see. The seat adds an extra thing for them, and it’s super easy to assemble! Two thumbs up for me.”

Our community says:

[My son] enjoys that the wheels light up. He enjoys that he can adjust the handlebar height [and] that he can ride fast. - Haley, mom of four and The Bump survey respondent

Buy Now

Toddler and Preschooler Scooters Comparison Chart

Overall best toddler scooterOverall best preschooler scooterBest budget-friendly toddler scooterBest foldable toddler scooterBest storable preschooler scooterBest scooter with a ride-on seat
Overall Best
Radio Flyer Glider Jr Scooter with Light Up Wheels
Banwood Scooter
Gotrax KS1 Kids Kick Scooter
Micro Kickboard Mini Deluxe Foldable LED Scooter
Yvolution Y Glider Kiwi Scooter
Razor Rollie DLX
Price$$$$$$$$$ $$ $
Dimensions22.5" (L) x 9.5" (W) x 29.5" (H) 11.7" (L) x 3.8" (W) x 27.6 to 31.5" (H) 22.5" (L) x 11" (W) x 31.3 to 34.8" (H)21" (L) x 4.5" (W) x 17 to 25" (H) 21.3" (L) x 10.6" (W) x 30.5" (H) 21.9" (L) x 11.4" (W) x 27.6" (H)
Weight5.1 lbs. 6.2 lbs. 5.7 lbs. 4.2 lbs.5.5 lbs. 6.6 lbs.
Weight capacity44 lbs. 110.2 lbs. 100 lbs.100 lbs. 110 lbs. 43 lbs.
Front wheel size5”4.7” 4.5”4.7” 4.7” 4”
Light-up wheels
Buy NowRead Full ReviewBuy NowRead Full ReviewBuy NowRead Full ReviewBuy NowRead Full ReviewBuy NowRead Full ReviewBuy NowRead Full Review

Types of Toddler and Preschooler Scooters

My kids received their first scooters as hand-me-downs from our local Buy Nothing community; they had no choice in the matter, but took to their first rides anyhow. Selecting a toddler’s first scooter isn’t always this turnkey. “They aren’t one-size-fits-all,” says Skinner, and what may suit one child may not work for another. As you browse, these are the three types of scooters for toddlers and preschoolers that you’ll come across:

  • Ride-on scooter. A ride-on scooter is the best option for young toddlers who are still finding their feet. This type has a removable seat and adjustable handlebars. Children can sit on it and pedal with their feet until they’re ready to use it as a standing scooter. These convertible designs can also “come in handy when kids fatigue and may be seated to propel the scooter,” says Skinner.
  • Three-wheel scooter. A scooter with three wheels (two at the front and one at the back) is the best option for toddlers starting to learn how to ride a scooter, says Skinner. Why? This type generally has a wide, stable base, making it easier for toddlers to keep their balance as they scoot along.
  • Two-wheel scooter. A two-wheel scooter—also known as a kick scooter—has one wheel at the front and one at the back. This is perhaps the most common type of scooter, especially for preschoolers and older kids with more advanced balance skills. “Two-wheeled scooters are more challenging to balance, which can be helpful for continuing to develop core strength and gross motor skills,” adds Skinner. Lastly, it’s important to note that the AAP states that children under 16 should not operate or ride on motorized or e-scooters.

Toddler and Preschooler Scooter Safety

The best toddler scooters are cute, colorful, easy to ride and—you guessed it—reliably safe. Before your little one starts scooting, here are the main safety considerations to keep in mind:

  • Helmets. First and foremost, “children should always wear a helmet when riding a scooter,” says Skinner. Even if your child is just standing on their scooter or riding it around the house, Skinner suggests that parents should encourage them to wear a helmet as “it helps build good habits and protects their head in case of accidents.” The AAP further advises that parents establish the habit of wearing a helmet as soon as possible to reinforce its importance.
  • Protective gear. Tumbles and scrapes are inevitable, so all riders (big and small!) must wear protective gear when using a scooter. For added safety measures, make sure your little one is wearing wrist, elbow and knee pads—in addition to a helmet, of course.
  • Age-appropriate designs. Always read the age and weight guidelines to make sure the scooter is suitable for your child’s developmental stage. “Scooters are not one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to review weight limits and handlebar height,” explains Skinner.
  • Adult supervision. Children under the age of 8 years should always be supervised while riding a scooter. Skinner also reminds parents that some kids may benefit from extra time and support when they’re learning to cruise on their scooters. This could look like “visual cues on the handlebars or deck, which can help them remember where to place their hands and feet and how to move them,” she says. I put a sticker in the middle of my daughter’s scooter deck as a reminder to place her standing foot toward the back—it’s been effective at preventing spills when she encounters sidewalk bumps.

What to Look for in a Toddler Scooter

Keep your child’s age and skill level in mind as you consider what features would best meet their needs. “Not all models will work for all children,” Skinner notes. However, there are a few key features across the board that all toddler scooters should have, such as:

  • Foot brake. A foot brake—also known as a rear fender brake—is a must-have safety feature for new riders. It’s positioned over the back wheel, making it easy to step on when kids need to slow down or stop.
  • Steering system. Experts are divided on the best steering style for toddlers. This is in part because inexperienced riders generally find it tricky to steer a scooter. Skinner upholds that the best toddler scooters have a “lean-to-steer” mechanism, in which they lean in the direction they want to go to shift the wheels and turn the scooter without dramatic turns that result in falls. Alternatively, Phillips-Walker says bicycle-steering style with handlebars that are turned to shift the wheels is easier for toddlers to handle. In other words, the best steering system depends on your toddler’s coordination and preference.
  • Durable wheels. Your little one is bound to hit some bumps in the road while they scoot, meaning wheels that can tackle uneven terrain are a must-have.
  • Wide foot deck. A wider foot deck (or base) helps toddlers maintain stability and balance while they ride. The foot deck should measure between three-and-a-half to five inches wide to comfortably accommodate little feet.
  • Adjustable handlebar. Although many scooters are marketed as toddler-friendly, very few have handlebars set at the right height for tots, which is between the rider’s belly button and mid-chest. Since the ideal handlebar height can be a moving mark for growing toddlers, opt for a toddler scooter with adjustable handlebars that help the scooter “grow” with your child until they are ready for the next stage, recommends Skinner.

What to Look for in a Preschooler Scooter

As your child grows, their scooter needs may evolve. However, “your child’s motor ability matters more than their age helps to identify which model to get,” says Phillips-Walker. Some considerations when choosing the right scooter for your preschooler are:

  • Wheel count and steering system. While younger kiddos might appreciate a classic turn-to-steer situation, a three-wheeled, lean-to-turn steering scooter is ideal for three- to five-year-olds on the move, says Phillips-Walker.
  • Wheel width. As with younger riders, preschoolers benefit from wider wheels, which provide extra stability and slow down speeders—a good thing for parents like me who often worry about losing sight of fast-moving kids on wheels.
  • Wheel size. As kids become more comfortable scooting, scooters with smaller wheels “are lighter, which makes them easier to ride, better for handling and steering for children. This feature also helps children accelerate,” Phillips-Walker says. On the other hand, bigger wheels help kids navigate rough terrain, so it’s important to consider your kid’s regular scooting routes when selecting their next ride.
  • Deck length. The longer the deck, the more difficult the scooter is to maneuver. However, once kiddos reach 4 or 5 years old, they might need extra foot room. This is particularly true for kids like my son, who likes to place both of his feet on the deck to coast after picking up speed.
  • Deck height. While lower decks are easier for little legs to reach the ground, sprouting preschoolers can handle scooters that have more space between the base and the ground.

Scooter Benefits for Toddlers and Preschoolers

There’s no question that scooters are fun to ride, but they also offer a wide range of developmental benefits for toddlers and preschoolers. According to Phillips-Walker and Skinner, here are a few of the ways scooters will positively impact your little one:

  • Gross motor skill development. As gross motor skills progress, “kids can learn more about body awareness, develop physical balance, strengthen muscles and increase coordination while riding a scooter,” explains Skinner.
  • Helps develop body awareness. On scooters, “children have to be aware of their surroundings, anticipate obstacles and make quick decisions that help them learn how to think critically and adapt to new situations,” says Phillips-Walker.
  • Socialization. Toddler scooters provide new opportunities for social interaction, offering kids a fun way to engage with peers, says Skinner. I’ve definitely seen this firsthand: Whether they’re racing around the playground or, more often, banding together on the sidewalk to outpace their parents, kids on scooters really do make fast friends.
  • Supports sensory development. “Riding a scooter engages both the proprioceptive and vestibular sensory systems, and these movements can aid in regulation,” Skinner states.
  • Fosters appreciation for physical activity. Controlling their own speed and movement doesn’t just build confidence—it gives kids a chance to exercise independence, which helps nurture a love of physical activity early on, Phillips-Walker points out. And that, experts and parents agree, is worth its weight in wheels—no matter which model you choose.

About the writer:
Elizabeth Narins is a Brooklyn-based writer, mom of two, and author of the More Than Mom Substack, where she shares honest takes and parenting tips. She has previously held staff positions at Cosmo and Women’s Health. Her kids test-drove seven scooters to inform this piece.

Sources

Alexis Phillips-Walker, DO, is a pediatrician at Memorial Hermann Medical Group Pediatrics in Atascocita, Texas. She earned her medical degree from Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Athens.

Pamela Skinner, MSOTR, is an occupational therapist clinical specialist at Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers. She holds a master’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of Indianapolis.

Healthy Children (AAP), Why Children Should Not Ride E-Scooters, October 2023

Healthy Children (AAP), How to Get Your Child to Wear a Bike Helmet, August 2022

The Bump September 2024 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of over 400 parents from The Bump community. We asked about the scooters their families have used and what they liked about them.

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18 Unique Crib Mobiles That'll Catch Your (and Baby's) Eye
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8 Best Pikler Triangles for Tots, Tested and Reviewed
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The Best Labor Day Weekend Sales for Baby, Mom and More
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13 Best Sensory Toys, Tested by Babies and Toddlers
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These Are the Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Baby Items to Shop Now
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The Best Baby Spoons and Forks, Tested by Hungry Children
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