Once they've discovered the fun of pedaling themselves along, toddlers can become very attached to their three-wheeler, but sooner or later they will be drawn irresistibly to the bicycle they see all the “big kids” riding. Deciding when the time is right -- and helping your child to manage the transition successfully -- basically comes down to some thoughtful observation and planning.

When is the Best Time to Switch?

Consider Your Child's Height

To ride a bicycle safely, your child should be able to rest his feet easily on the ground when seated on the bicycle. There are several sizes (wheel diameters) on the market, making it easier to find one to fit your child. The smallest bicycle (12 inch wheel diameter) should accommodate most children as young as three, but if even this size is too large for your child, it's best to wait until he has grown taller. On the other hand, if your child is too tall for the smallest size bike, move up in size until you find the right fit.

Observe Pedaling and Steering Skills

Watch your child pedal and steer her tricycle. It will be easier for her to learn to ride a bicycle if she has mastered both of these skills before she moves on to riding a bicycle, since she'll be dealing with the completely new idea of learning to balance on two wheels. However, older children may be able to cope with learning all three skills at once, if they haven't quite mastered pedaling and steering on their tricycle or even if they've never ridden one at all.

Think about Your Child's Temperament

You know your child best, so you're the best judge of how he approaches challenges and takes to learning new skills. If he's tall enough for a small bike and his pedaling and steering skills are good but he just doesn't seem emotionally ready, giving him a few more months could be just what he needs, and it certainly won't hurt to wait.

How Can You Help Your Child with the Transition?

Build up to the Idea of Riding a Bike

For a week or two before the big day when your child will try out her first bike, build anticipation by commenting on how much fun it is to ride a two-wheeler. Even if your child is already excited about getting a bicycle and seems to have no misgivings, she'll enjoy talking about the upcoming event.

Share Your Memories

Most children love hearing about their parents' childhood experiences, especially when those stories relate to something they themselves are experiencing. Share with your child how you felt about your own first bicycle and learning to ride.

Decide Whether to Use Training Devices

Based on your child's needs as well as your own, you might decide to try a training tool that may ease any fears your child has and help him develop confidence on his new bicycle. One such tool is the familiar set of training wheels. These have been joined by other devices, such as a handle that attaches to the bicycle's rear axle (in place of training wheels), which a parent can hold to assist in balance and pushing. Another, similar handle attaches to the seat post and can be used in addition to training wheels. If using training wheels, it is important to make sure that they're adjusted correctly (see Training Wheels—Dos and Don'ts for assistance).

No matter how you go about it and when you decide the time is right, one of the most important things to remember about making the trike-to-bike transition is to keep it as enjoyable as possible for your child. It's time and effort that's sure to be well spent as you watch your child's confidence and love of riding grow, and those excited smiles are absolutely priceless.