Scooter Tricks for Kids A Guide to Getting Started
Scootering has become one of the most popular pastimes for kids, offering not just a means of transportation but also a thrilling way to exercise and explore creativity. One of the things that makes scootering so exciting is the ability to perform tricks. If your child is eager to take their scootering skills to the next level, this guide will provide some fantastic tricks for kids to try, along with tips to get started safely.
The Basics Safety First
Before diving into tricks, it's important for kids to understand the significance of safety. Wearing a helmet is crucial, as are knee pads and elbow pads. Ensuring a proper fit of the scooter is equally important; it should be the right size for the rider to maintain balance and control. Once these safety measures are in place, kids can learn and practice their tricks with confidence.
1. The Scooter Push
The scooter push is the foundational trick that every kid should master before moving on to more complex maneuvers. To perform a scooter push, simply ride the scooter forward and use one foot to push off the ground while standing on the other foot on the scooter deck. This trick helps with balance and speed, laying the groundwork for more advanced tricks in the future.
2. Ollie
The Ollie is a fundamental trick that serves as a stepping stone to many other scooter tricks. To perform an Ollie, riders need to
- Ride at a moderate speed. - Crouch down slightly and then spring upward while dragging the back foot up the deck, creating an upward motion. - As the scooter lifts off the ground, the rider should level the scooter by bringing the front foot up.
This trick allows riders to jump over small obstacles and gain a sense of how to manipulate the scooter in the air.
3. The Bunny Hop
The Bunny Hop is similar to the Ollie but focuses on jumping over obstacles without manipulating the deck too much
. Here’s how to do it- Start riding with a bit of speed. - Crouch down and pull the handlebars up as you jump into the air, lifting the scooter with you. - Keep the scooter close to your body while airborne.
This trick is great for improving confidence and control while in the air.
4. The Tail Whip
Once a child has mastered the Ollie and Bunny Hop, they can try the Tail Whip, a crowd favorite that shines in skate parks. Here’s how to get started
- Ride at a moderate speed and perform an Ollie. - As the scooter is in the air, kick the deck around with your back foot, allowing the scooter to spin beneath you. - Catch the scooter with your feet as it completes the 360-degree spin.
This trick requires practice and coordination but is well worth the effort for its flair.
5. The 180 Spin
Finally, the 180 Spin allows kids to turn their scooter 180 degrees mid-air. To execute this trick
- Build up some speed and perform an Ollie. - As the rider is airborne, use their shoulders and arms to turn 180 degrees while keeping the scooter level. - Land back on the ground facing the opposite direction.
Conclusion
Scootering offers endless opportunities for fun and creativity, especially when it comes to mastering tricks. It’s essential for kids to be patient with themselves and practice regularly, as many tricks require time and perseverance to master. Accompanied by friends or family, kids can enjoy their riding experience even more, sharing tips and tricks along the way.
With the right gear, a safe environment, and a willingness to learn, your child can embark on their journey to becoming a skilled scooter rider. So grab that scooter, put on that helmet, and watch as they take to the streets with newfound confidence and excitement!