Are you thinking about purchasing a scooter for your toddler? A lot of parents debate whether to get a bike or scooter for their toddler’s first outdoor toy. We’re fans of the scooter idea.
Why? Well, we think they’re more age-appropriate for toddlers and they’re a great way to work up to the bigger milestones. There are some really cool options out right now that are both exciting and beneficial for toddlers.
Let’s take a look at the advantages a scooter offers and what you should look out for when you’re shopping. Last but not least, we’ll give you a rundown on the best scooters for toddlers, currently available on the market.
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Why Should You Buy a Scooter?
We all know that scooters can be loads of fun. But are there any other advantages our toddler can gain from this toy? Let’s take a look at a few:
1. Encourages Physical Activity
It’s recommended that toddlers enjoy at least three hours of physical activity every day (source). With a scooter, you can play with your little one, making sure they get the exercise they need. It’s an exciting way to burn some energy.
2. Improves Gross Motor Skills
Your toddler is making the transition from walking to running and jumping (source). Riding a scooter can be a fantastic way to work on improving their gross motor skills. Of course, they need to use their muscles to push against the ground and build speed.
Riding a scooter also requires your child to move their legs, balance, and turn all at the same time. While it could take a few practice runs for your toddler, they can slowly develop their coordination skills.
How to Choose the Best Scooter
So, how on earth do you choose the right scooter for this age group? We’ve come up with a list of some features to consider.
1. Removable Seat
Toddlers are building up their confidence and skills at this age. So, for some, jumping straight into riding a scooter full-on might be too much too soon.
Because of this, some companies make scooters with removable seats. This means they can use it as a ride-on until they feel confident enough to zoom along on their own.
2. Adjustable Handlebars
Everyone who’s had a toddler before knows how fast they grow. To accommodate this, check out scooters that have an adjustable handle. This will let you adjust it to the right height and make it safer as well.
Some scooters will have pre-set height levels, while some are free-moving.
3. Lean to Steer
Maneuvering a scooter isn’t easy. The last thing you want is for your toddler to hurt themselves or end up frustrated over and over again.
The best ones for this age group are scooters with a “lean to steer” mechanism. This means that your toddler leans in the direction they want the scooter to move. Sometimes referred to as “lean to turn”, this helps them to practice their balance and coordination.
4. Rear Fender Brake
Some children love to go fast and they’ll be super excited to zoom along on their new scooter. But safety is essential and it’s best to look out for one that has a reliable rear fender brake.
This is normally over the wheel so it’s easy to stand on when they want to stop. Some of the best scooters will have grips over the brake. This may stop your toddler’s foot from slipping.
5. Three or Four Wheels
Most standard scooters will only have two wheels. But since toddlers are still learning to keep their balance, we’d recommend looking for scooters that have three or four wheels.
This is going to provide a sturdy base for your little one to stand on. Plus, they’ll be able to work on their balance in a safer way.
To Keep in Mind
Everyone wants their toddler to have fun while scooting. But you’ll want them to be safe too. It’s always a good idea to look for a helmet to protect their noggin. The chances of head injuries can be greatly reduced by wearing a properly-fitted helmet.
Elbow and knee pads will also protect your toddler from scraps, cuts, and bruises. Some may argue that they’re not necessary but choose what you feel most comfortable with.
The Best Toddler Scooters of 2019
Time to scoot! What an exciting adventure for your toddler. We’ve reviewed some of the best scooters out there for this age range, so let’s take a look.
1. SKIDEE Folding Seat Adjustable Scooter
Best Seated Scooter
If this is your toddler’s first scooter, they may feel more confident sitting and scooting in the beginning. The good thing about this one is that it has a foldable seat. This is padded for comfort and once they feel confident, it simply folds up.
You can adjust the height of the seat from 13 inches to 13.8 inches. Furthermore, the fully adjustable handlebar means you can use this scooter for a few years. It has the lean-to-turn function, too.
Let’s not forget the cool light-up wheels. They’re multi-colored and flash while your little one is riding. This is fun to watch and makes evening outdoor play even better.
What’s more, you just have to press a button and it all folds up, making storage easy.
The break in the back is wide and hard to miss. With a sturdy frame and comfy rubber handles, your tot is gonna be riding fine in no time.
Pros
- Easy to store.
- Adjustable seat and handlebar.
- Light-up wheels for nighttime fun.
- Variety of color options.
Cons
- Some had difficulties learning to turn with this one.
2. YBIKE GLX Cruze Scooter
Practical and Cute
With a bright design, this scooter is what your little one needs for outdoor fun. It has three wheels for safety and the lean-to-steer means your toddler can zip around and practice their balance.
A unique feature is the curved handlebar. This gives your toddler more space and helps to shift their weight back. This encourages better balance and more control. The maximum weight is 44 pounds.
The wheels are big and they’re designed to be durable. There’s a composite wheel core and a cartridge bearing as well. This is combined with long-lasting PU wheels.
A good feature on this scooter is the large brake pedal on the rear wheel. All your little one has to do is stand on it with one foot to slow down. The grips located on the deck help with steady footing.
Pros
- Curved handlebar.
- Three wheels for stability.
- Three colors to choose from.
Cons
- Not height adjustable.
3. Lascoota Kick Removable Seat Scooter
Best for Girls
This scooter is one of our favorites for toddlers. It has a seat that can be used if your toddler is still finding their bearings. This can also be removed when your little girl wants to be adventurous and learn how to ride.
This scooter is low to the ground, with a wide deck for safety. The lean-to-steer design means balancing skills get fine-tuned. You can also adjust the handlebars and seat height for comfort and precision.
The three wheels mean that this scooter has some support, making riding easy for your toddler. They even light up with cool colors when the sun goes down. It’s constructed from aluminum alloy and stainless steel for durability.
Pros
- Flashing wheels for evening riding.
- Durable construction.
- Lean-to-steer function.
- Adjustable handlebars.
Cons
- Doesn’t fold for storage.
4. Yoleo 3 Wheels Kick Scooter
Time for Adventure
The blue and black design will most likely appeal to boys, but we don’t see why your little girl wouldn’t love this scooter, too! The removable seat is an added feature that only some of the scooters on our list have.
There are three wheels: two large ones at the front that have awesome flashing lights, and a rear one with a brake pedal. They’re made from PU materials, which makes them smooth.
Thankfully, this scooter has adjustable handlebars, with three heights. The handlebars have grips too so that your toddler doesn’t slip off. The maximum weight capacity is 110 pounds.
Pros
- Efficient at shock absorption.
- Wide deck for safety.
- Soft handle grips for anti-slip effect.
Cons
- Wheels might be lower quality.
5. Scoot and Ride Kick Scooter
Super Fly
Sometimes it’s like toddlers have boundless amounts of energy. This two-in-one scooter may be just what they need. It’s a three-wheel scooter that quickly converts to a ride-on to suit all capabilities and grow with your child.
As a ride-on, it has a comfy seat and low-to-the-ground design. You don’t have to worry about it tipping over — it has a patented safety pad that makes sure it doesn’t.
To remove the seat, just use the lever on the front and it actually turns into the handlebars. Pretty neat, right? No tools needed. The handlebars can then be adjusted to the height your child needs.
A fantastic feature is the steering lock, designed to prevent changing direction suddenly, keeping your toddler safe. It can be disabled later on when your child grows up and knows how to ride independently.
Pros
- Two-in-one.
- Award winner and great design.
- Safety pad to prevent tipping.
- Steering lock.
Cons
- Doesn’t include lean-to-steer function.
6. Micro Mini Original Kick Scooter
Scoot in Style
With the choice of seven different colored decks, your child can be the coolest toddler on the block.
You’ve got the lean-to-steer function that we love. There’s also a rear brake that only requires your little one to push on it. This scooter is equipped with three wheels that are “non-marking” so it may be suitable for indoor flooring, too.
There’s a wide deck made from reinforced fiberglass, and rubber grips so that it’s not slippery. The lightweight aluminum frame also makes it easy for your child to lift over curbs.
Pros
- Lean-to-steer function.
- Features non-marking wheels.
- Wide fibreglass deck.
Cons
- Doesn’t have adjustable handlebars.
7. Hikole Height Adjustable Scooter
Coolest Deck Ever
The “street dance” design on this scooter’s deck is just too cool. It has three wheels for safety and easy-grip handles to boot.
The handlebar is adjustable and you’ll find four height levels to choose from. This allows your child to enjoy this scooter for years to come.
Going for an evening ride? This scooter has cool LED flashing wheels which aren’t only sweet but are a great safety measure.
The rear brake allows your toddler to stop their ride at any point. All they’ve got to do is stand on the wheel cover and it’ll smoothly stop. There’s a weight capacity of 110 pounds.
Pros
- Lean-to-steer design.
- Super cool deck.
- Adjustable handlebars.
- Easy to stow away.
Cons
- Parts may not be the most durable.
8. Micro Mini Deluxe Kick Scooter
Great for Bright Designs
Do you want to make playtime active, as well as fun? Check out this bright scooter for toddlers.
What we love are the 12 fun and colorful designs you can choose from. There’s everything from apricot to navy blue.
It has an adjustable t-bar, letting you set the perfect height for your little one. It can be set at anywhere between 17 and 25 inches.
The handlebars are held securely when you tighten the handlebar clamp with the hex wrench that’s included. This should be quick and easy to do before heading off on an adventure.
This scooter has three wheels — two big ones at the front and one at the back. This supports your child as they lean to change direction. Overall this scooter is fantastic for practicing to lean into a turn safely while keeping your balance.
Pros
- Fun colorful deck designs.
- Adjustable t-bar.
- Lean-to-turn construction.
Cons
- Doesn’t fold up.
9. Radio Flyer Ride-On Scooter
Ride-On Meets Scooter
Can’t decide whether your toddler will like a ride-on toy or a scooter? Well, with this, you can enjoy both. This makes it fun and suitable for young toddlers, as well as still being fun as they grow up.
The great thing is that it’s easy to convert to a ride-on, just flip the base and that’s it. You can even use the ledge underneath the seat for storage on the move. Your little boy or girl can carry their own toys.
What’s more, we love the four-wheel design. This is going to be perfect for beginners and will provide total stability for riding. It has a maximum weight capacity of 44.1 pounds.
Pros
- Converts from a scooter to a ride-on.
- Under-seat storage.
- Four wheel design for maximum support.
Cons
- Doesn’t have lean-to-turn steering.
10. ICODE LED Flashing Wheel Scooter
A Flash of Color
One thing you’ll notice straight away with this scooter is the awesome light-up wheels. They’re luminous and fun, creating flashing multi-colors as your tot rides.
It features wear-resistant PU wheels, an aluminum frame, and a carbon steel alloy t-shaped handlebar. You can adjust the t-bar from 24.8 inches up to 35.43 inches to accommodate your growing child. Just choose one of the four heights that you need.
We think that the anti-skid design on the extra-wide deck is great. This allows your child to be more stable on the go. It has a quick-reacting rear brake when your child wants to stop, too.
You can bring this scooter with you anywhere. It simply folds up and can easily fit in your trunk or be stored away when not in use.
Pros
- Foldable for storage and portability.
- Anti-skid design.
- Flashing multi-color wheels.
Cons
- Users reported the plastic parts may break easily.
11. Voyage Sports Kick Scooter
Best for Boys
This bright green and black scooter is just what your little boy needs for his birthday or Christmas. It has three wheels for sturdiness and safety, and they even light-up for a fun multi-colored ride.
It’s made with a steel-aluminum frame. This makes it strong and durable for playing with outdoors. It has a maximum weight capacity of 80 pounds.
The t-handlebar can be adjusted to find the right height for your growing toddler. It can be secured at any height from 24 inches to 27 inches, you decide.
The deck is textured for added traction. Be prepared to assemble this scooter when you purchase it — but it shouldn’t take too long, and an Allen wrench is included.
Pros
- Three-wheel design.
- Adjustable handlebar.
- Lean-to-turn steering.
- Textured deck for good grip.
Cons
- Some assembly required.
12. Hikole Detachable Seat Scooter
Sweetest Theme
This scooter is unique with its amazing ladybug theme. It’s bright pink and that automatically makes it a lot of fun — green and blue are also available. A removable ladybug basket is attached to the front for any on-the-go items.
What’s more, it has a few features that mean it can grow with your child. First, you have the option to use it as a push buggy with an adjustable handlebar for mommy. When your child is ready for a bit of independence, the backrest and handlebar can be removed.
The seat is height adjustable, and so is the handlebar at the front. When the tot is ready for some true kickin’ scooter action, the seat can go “bye-bye.” The three light-up wheels will help with stability in those early days.
Pros
- Fully adjustable.
- A variety of functions.
- Ladybug basket for storage.
Cons
- The quality of materials is a regular customer complaint.
13. WiiSHAM Deluxe Adjustable Kids Scooter
Three In One
Functioning as a push buggy, ride-on, and then later a scooter, this is one for growing with your child. The seat is curved and comfortable, allowing your child to feel confident on the scooter first. Of course, this can be removed once they feel they can ride around safely and independently.
Plus, the handlebars can be adjusted to the right height. There are three wheels and rubber handles for good grip. There’s a rear brake for easy stopping, too, with a textured deck to stop their foot from slipping.
It’s a lean-to-turn design and there’s even gear included with this one — a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads — though we can’t attest to their quality.
Pros
- Three in one.
- Safety gear included.
- Grips for stability.
Cons
- Hard for an adult to turn in buggy mode.
14. Little Tikes Lean Pink Scooter
Easy to Store
This has a sleek black and pink design and features three wheels to support your toddler. There are two at the front to help with balance, with another wheel at the back.
The soft rubber handlebars are easy to grip and there’s a rear safety brake. It’s got a wide base and the scooter is low to the ground, making balance easier and allowing better control.
To make a turn, your toddler simply leans in the direction they want to go. Another great feature is the quick-release handle. This makes it easy to store away when it’s not in use since it becomes compact.
Pros
- Lean-to-turn design.
- Quick-release handle for storage.
- Low and wide base.
Cons
- Assembly required.
15. Radio Flyer My 1st Scooter
Ideal for Beginners
This scooter is perfect for beginners and it may help to build your child’s confidence. It has an extra-wide base with a textured deck for traction.
Your little one can use the hand grips to feel secure. Again, we’ve got the three-wheel design on this one with your standard rear foot brake. It comes complete with a well-designed turning radius, providing extra safety.
It has a maximum weight capacity of 50 pounds. Not only can you use this scooter when your child is a toddler, but it has a recommended age up to 5-years-old.
Pros
- Quality turning radius.
- Extra-wide base.
- Textured deck for traction.
- Comfy handlebars.
Cons
- Chunky design for storage.
- Mostly made from plastic.
Scoot Away!
We can see that scooters are a great way to get your toddler moving. Daily exercise is essential and a scooter is a fun way to practice motor skills, fine-tune coordination, and burn excess energy.
If we had to pick just one favorite, it would have to be the SKIDEE Folding Seat Adjustable Scooter. We love that it has a foldable seat to make it a ride-on. It’s also got the lean-to-steer function and cool light-up wheels.
Do you have a favorite scooter, or do you plan on getting one for your toddler? Let us know in the comments!
