Electric scooters are a popular mode of transportation for people of all ages. As a result many parents consider presenting their kids and toddlers with an e-scooter as their birthday present. However, we strongly discourage it since e-scooters can be dangerous for young children, especially toddlers.
So, why are electric scooters not suitable for toddlers? First, toddlers are not yet old enough and so they lack the cognitive skills and coordination necessary to ride an electric scooter safely. They may not be able to judge distances properly, or, fail to react quickly enough to avoid obstacles. Additionally, electric scooters can travel at speeds of up to 15 miles per hour, which is much too fast for a toddler. Even if a toddler is wearing a helmet, they are still at risk of serious injury if they fall from an electric scooter. And all this can accidents and hurt toddlers which is the last thing you want as a parent.
If you are considering allowing your toddler to ride an electric scooter, we encourage you to read this article. We have provided you with some important information about the risks associated with electric scooters and why they are not suitable for toddlers. Also, you will learn how to ensure safety of your kids while riding the e-scooter to bring peace of mind for you.
Why are electric scooters not suitable for toddlers?
Start with the mechanism of the electric scooter. As the name suggests, electric scooters are powered by electricity. It includes a variety of components to ensure you smooth riders. However, the main parts of the electric scooter are its motor and battery. These two parts play the most crucial role in the operation of the vehicle. Then comes the components like the throttle, brake, acceleration, etc. A rider does not know how different parts of the scooter works to ride it safely and efficiently.
It requires some knowledge of throttle, acceleration, brake, and other parts to riding the scooter. A small toddler can’t acquire knowledge and instinct about the pieces. That is why they cannot control the vehicle properly. On the other hand, electric scooters come in a size that is suitable for the adult. As the size will not fit properly to the kid, they will find it hard to control and steer the scooter.
Those are the reason why electric scooters are not suitable for toddlers. However, there are some specially designed scooters available in the market for toddlers and kids. These scooters are nicely optimized and speed-limited to ensure safe rides for toddlers.
When can a kid ride electric scooters?
Even there are specialized electric scooters for the kid and toddlers; you shouldn’t directly give the scooter to them. Especially when the kid has no experience with a scooter or other ride-on toys, it can be harmful. To find out whether the e-scooters are safe for the kid or not, you should consider some factors.
Below, we will let you know about some of the essential factors that you should consider before offering an e-scooter to a toddler or kid.
Rider Experience
The first thing that you should investigate is the age and experience of the rider. You should observe the riding skill, instinct, and maturity of the kid. For example, if the kid can ride a bike, you can be quite sure that the kid can comfortably ride the toy.
The kid should also be confident, calm, and interested when it comes to riding. Also, you need to make sure that the child is not going to cross the limit while riding the toy.
Scooter Compatibility
The size of the electric scooter is the next big thing that you should consider while selecting the vehicle. Different e-scooters arrive in different sizes to suit different riders. As a rule of thumb, you should go for a lightweight and compact scooter that will suit the size of the kid. Evaluate the size of the handlebar, deck, dimension, and other specifications to ensure a smooth riding experience.
Scooter Controls
As we said earlier, the scooter controls are crucial to learning the scooter before stepping on the toy. You must teach the kid about braking, acceleration, steering, and other factors. Don’t let the kid ride the scooter till the kid doesn’t understand these aspects. Also, try to go for a scooter that optimizes the features for the kid.
Safety Rules
Though the electric scooters are correctly optimized, they can be dangerous anytime, like the other motorized vehicles. That is why you should equip the kid with various safety gear to resist any risk. The essential safety gear is the helmet. Never allow the kid to ride without the helmet. You can also include hand gloves, eye goggles, knee, and elbow pads.
Hopefully, now you will understand why electric scooters are not suitable for toddlers. The article should also acknowledge you when you can’t offer electric scooters to your toddler.