GBP
Balance Bikes for Children with Special Needs
At LittleBig Bikes we want to enable all kids to learn to ride a bike. The benefits of exercise aside, learning to glide along independently develops motor skills, builds confidence and is a means for social interaction and group play.
We understand that while each person has their own unique strengths, capabilities, and talents, for children with special needs, riding a bicycle does not always come easy. For kids with Down syndrome, autism or cerebral palsy, trying to coordinate balance, pedalling and steering can be an extremely difficult task.
“My first son has Autism and was 7 when he learned to get his balance on the LittleBig bike, and we had tried other bikes to no avail, my second son has Dyspraxia and learnt to cycle in 2 weeks using the bike, I lent it to a friend of mine with a boy with Autism and he also learnt to cycle using it and now its back to me and my youngest child is 4 tomorrow and we promised him we would put the pedals on it when he was 4, so its going to teach its fourth child how to cycle now, and its still in immaculate condition after 3 years. It’s an amazing bike!”
“I managed to purchase the bike and have it shipped to Belgium for my child with DCD (Dyspraxia).
It is absolutely brilliant, both in term of use as the design that works well and is feasible for me as a parent.”
“I was looking for a bike for my daughter who has Dyspraxia and was struggling with heavy bikes and with pedals. She is in love with it… she loves the colour of it and is able to handle it really well. Colour, size, weight, quality – all first class!”
“Really super bike! My little one has special needs and this bike has helped her to cycle, pedals and all! 3 years later the bike still looks like new and will be used now by my other child."
What Other Parent's Say
“My first son has Autism and was 7 when he learned to get his balance on the LittleBig bike, and we had tried other bikes to no avail, my second son has Dyspraxia and learnt to cycle in 2 weeks using the bike, I lent it to a friend of mine with a boy with Autism and he also learnt to cycle using it and now its back to me and my youngest child is 4 tomorrow and we promised him we would put the pedals on it when he was 4, so its going to teach its fourth child how to cycle now, and its still in immaculate condition after 3 years. It’s an amazing bike!”
“I managed to purchase the bike and have it shipped to Belgium for my child with DCD (Dyspraxia).
It is absolutely brilliant, both in term of use as the design that works well and is feasible for me as a parent.”
“I was looking for a bike for my daughter who has Dyspraxia and was struggling with heavy bikes and with pedals. She is in love with it… she loves the colour of it and is able to handle it really well. Colour, size, weight, quality – all first class!”
“Really super bike! My little one has special needs and this bike has helped her to cycle, pedals and all! 3 years later the bike still looks like new and will be used now by my other child."
Why a Growing Frame Can Be Helpful
For some children with additional needs, familiarity and consistency are important when learning new skills. Changing to a completely different bike as they grow can sometimes feel disruptive or overwhelming.
A balance bike with a growing frame allows the same bike to adjust as your child develops. Instead of moving from one model to another, the riding position can be adapted gradually while keeping the overall feel and setup familiar. This continuity can help build confidence, reduce anxiety around change and allow children to progress at their own pace.
You can see how the LittleBig convertible balance bike adjusts through its different stages here.
For families who value a steady and predictable learning journey, a bike that grows alongside their child can offer reassurance as well as long-term practicality.
LittleBig's Growing Frame Gives Extra Time to Learn
The LittleBig’s unique design allows it to be used as a balance bike for 4-5 years, the pedal kit never needs to be attached. If your child has slower growth they may be able to use it for even longer. The stable design of the LittleBig and being fully supported by the saddle while they have their feet on the ground, makes it even easier than walking, ideal for kids with low muscle tone. The LitleBig's light weight and high quality 14 inch wheels with sealed bearings mean it is much easier to push forwards and steer than traditional kids bikes with stabiliser wheels.
Top Tip: Balance Before Pedals
Many children benefit from learning balance before introducing pedals. Skipping stabilisers (training wheels) can help develop coordination and control in a calmer, more natural way. You can explore the differences in our guide on Balance Bike vs Training Wheels.
