Not for Profit, AblePlay, Helps Parents Find Special Needs Bikes

Learning to ride a bike is a memorable part of childhood, but according to a new study it’s an experience that most children with special needs don’t get to take part in.

According to a study at the University of Michigan, “Less than 20 percent of kids with autism—and just 10 percent of those with Down’s Syndrome—learn to ride a bike.”

Part of the reason for this is that most children’s bicycles are adapted to meet the unique needs of special needs kids. That’s why www.AblePlay.org is reaching in to help! Their not for profit organization helps parents find toys that help children with disabilities and conditions well suited for their needs.

Ellen Metrick, Chief Toy Evaluator at AblePlay says, “One of our objectives was to get as many biking options on the AblePlay website as possible, because they are the perfect vehicle to deliver the three I’s – Increase in self esteem and confidence, inclusion and independence.”

AblePlay says parents should consider these three things when selecting the right bike for their special needs child.

1) Limited Balance – If a child has problems balancing a bike, there are special bikes designed to help. One example is the National Sporting Goods Ybike. It features two wheels on the back bumper that provide extra balancing support. Additionally, it encourages kids to learn balance using their feet, as this model has no pedals.

Another option is the 3-in-1 Smart Trike by Little Tikes. It has features that allow the parent to help support the child including a special parent-assist handle, a seatbelt harness, a safety bar, and foldout foot rests.

2) Limited Leg Mobility – Special needs children with limited foot mobility may perform better on a bike designed to allow the kids to move it forward with their hands. The National Ambucs Am 9S AmTryke safety features include a three- point seat belt, parent assist handle and straps for the legs that allow every child to bike alongside their playmates.

3) Not Ready for Biking Independently – For children who require more supervision, a tandem bike that features a seat for the child in front is an option to consider. The Buddy Bike has several models available for varying levels of biking ability of the child.

Parents agree that special needs bikes provide many benefits for special needs children.

A researcher at the University of Illinois, Dr. Richard E. Klein, runs a bike program for children with special needs called “Lose the Training Wheels.” Feedback from the parents has been incredible on the positive changes it has created for children enrolled in the program.

One parent from the program shared this comment; “I can see the great feeling of accomplishment in Dan’s facial expression. You have given him a greater gift than just riding a bicycle. He is more confident that he was. He stands taller today because of what he learned in five days. Thank you. A proud mom.”

According to their website, “Within days of learning to ride, many children exhibit independent behaviors for the first time ever.” Imagine the lifetime benefits a child could gain with that added kind of confidence to try new things.

Experts concur that special needs bikes provide excellent stimulation for special needs children. Riding bikes provide needed exercise for children. Additionally, it can help improve a child’s sense of balance. Having a chance to play outside gives parents a chance to introduce rules about safe outdoor play. Finally, learning to ride a bike provides boosts to a child’s elf-esteem and confidence that will help them in every area of life.

For more special needs bikes and bicycles for special needs children, and other play products, visit the AblePlay website at www.ableplay.org.

AblePlayTM is the latest initiative from the nonprofit National Lekotek Center, division of the nonprofit Anixter Center, and the leading authority on toys and play for children with disabilities. For further information, please contact us at 773.528.5766 or visit us online at www.ableplay.org.

National Lekotek Center
2001 N. Clybourn Ave
Chicago, IL 60614
Press Contact: Raiko Mendoza, Director of Business Development
Phone: 773.528.5766 x 401
Fax: 773.537.2992 |
Web: http://www.ableplay.org
Web: http://www.lekotek.org

This release was published on openPR.