Every child loves a ride on car. From the first day that they catch a ride on Dad’s shoulders they seek ways to get around faster and discover more of their surroundings.
A well-chosen ride on car will give your child the mobility that he (or she) seeks from an early age. It will improve his fitness and teach him coordination and balance.
Since ride on toy cars are not cheap, it is important to choose a car that is capable of entertaining and engaging your child for a sufficient amount of time.
The best toy for your child will depend on his age and level of development.
Nowadays there are lots of choices on the market, here are a couple things you should take note of when buying a ride on car for your child.
Safety
This most important aspect of selecting an appropriate ride on toy is to check the safety aspects. Every ride on toy comes with some type of risk. The trick is to ensure that that risk is minimized by ensuring that certain basic safety measures are in place.
Slow moving or stationary toys may require little by way of safety features, but as they speed up they should include features such as brakes and seat belts.
You may also consider purchasing safety gear for your little rider. Always supervise the activities of small children. Balance is very important in a ride on toy. The toy should have a low center of gravity to guard against tipping or falling over. This is provided by a broad base close to the ground.
The wheels or rockers should offer solid support for the weight of your child. The distance separating the rockers or wheels are important determinants of balance.
To check the balance of the toy gently push it from side to side. It should stay in an upright position.
Ensure that the product is designed for the height and weight of your child.
- Power Wheels ride-on toy with realistic Jeep Wrangler styling, driving sound effects & secret storage compartment
- Best in class performance on hard surfaces, grass and uneven surfaces; long lasting rechargeable 6V battery and charger included
- Multi-terrain traction: Kids can take their adventure from the sidewalk to the backyard for an awesome driving experience
- FOR KIDS 3 YEARS & OLDER: This small yet powerful ride-on is perfect for your little racers who want to start driving like the grownups do!
- POWERFUL 12V & REALISTIC DESIGN: Adjustable seatbelt, bright LED headlights, lockable doors, and grid windshield for off-road style, with a 12V motor and traction tires to ride on different terrains
- MANUAL AND PARENT CONTROL: Let your child drive manually or use the remote control to safely guide them yourself; remote has forward/reverse controls
Patterns, colors and design
Choose toys that will appeal to your child over the long run. Wagons, rocking horses, bicycles and tricycles have ageless appeal, and will not end up an expensive but forgotten toy in the corner of the yard of the playroom.
Sound effects, flashing lights, cartoon characters and bright colors can all help to improve the allure of the toy for your child.
Extendable seats and handlebars
Seat adjustment options and extendable handles can help the product to grow with your child, ensuring that it is suitable for a longer period of time.
Some ride on toys are expensive so the ability to grow with your child may be important to you. A back-support feature is appropriate for small children.
Age appropriate
Most toy cars are designed for children of 12 to 36 months, and some may even extend up to five years.
Regardless of the age of the child, their feet must reach the floor or the pedals. Your child should be able to climb on and off without assistance. Their knees should not touch the steering wheel of a battery-operated ride on toy.
Toys should also match the level of coordination, skill and balance of your child.
Battery versus manual power
Pedal or leg driven ride on toys are most appropriate for children under three. Some battery powered units are, however, designed for younger children. Battery powered toys operate a low-speeds to reduce the risk of injury or collision.
Battery powered toys – what’s important?
If you decide to opt for a battery powered ride on toy, you should consider the following:
Battery power – ensure that you choose the most appropriate battery size. Ride on toys typically have one of three sizes, 6V, 12V or 24V. The bigger the battery, the longer it will hold a charge. The heavier the child, the larger the battery should be.
Motor wattage – The bigger the motor the higher the power and speed. As with the battery, larger children will require a more powerful motor.
Quality
Usually, there is a strong correlation between the quality and the price of the toy that you purchase. Look out for a warranty. Manufacturers should offer at least one year.
Check the materials that the toy is made of. Some toys are designed for indoor use and will not withstand the elements. The wheels of others may not endure the rigors of gravel or cement.
Ride on toys improving childhood development
Ride on toys offers small children the freedom of movement that they find exhilarating. A carefully chosen ride on toy will afford your child many happy hours of fun and games.
They help your child to learn balance and coordination and develop the gross motor skills in small children.