Teaching disabled kids to ride

[voodoo-kid]

Now then here's one to tax you... my littlest one has Downs Syndrome so she has quite a bit of delay to her mental (and physical) development. The physical side shouldn't be too much bother to be honest but her mental abilities are lacking by over a year - she's 4 at present.
Being a fan of bikes, naturally I'd love to get her going on a bike. I could get a trike but don't fancy the expense or hassle of storage. So... I'm wondering if any of you have any tips to help her progress. It might just be as simple as being patient just like everything else in the little darlings life.

Thanks

Mark

 

[Blindingsun]

what about one of those balance bikes to begin with?

 

[voodoo-kid]

Yeah we've got one. She absolutely loves it but does struggle with the coordination necessary for it though. Maybe it's just a case of persevering with it for a touch longer I guess. Now the weather is improving I'm hoping we can get her out on it a bit more...

 

[Retro Cat]

What about a trike?

http://www.pashley.co.uk/products/pickle.html

 

[voodoo-kid]

Had considered a trike but they tend to be expensive and storage is a problem. Plus kids her age out grow stuff so quickly! I'd be needing a new trike every couple of years judging by the growth of our eldest one!

 

[greenstiles]

I think it may just be down to being extra patient and allowing a lot more time. An ex customer of ours son has downs but once he got to grips with a bike of his own and balance etc, just rode and rode and rode......with a riding partner to add safety when needed.

 

[FluffyChicken]

for mine a trike is the only option, luckily near us verious types can be borrowed to go around the park. but he's now getting his own. not that we can afford the grand or so needed for disabled orientated bikes.

for you though, balance bike you have. switch to a larger one as needed. if she cannot balance and move on that then a bicycle will not really be an option.

my none special son didn't ride a bike till 7yrs old. there is no rush.

 

[voodoo-kid]

@greenstiles.
Yeah pretty much as I thought to be honest. I was hoping for a "miracle cure" that's all. I hear what you're saying regarding the safety thing. She is pretty fearless and is only just beginning to understand about pain and discomfort! I think mountain biking will be out of the question if I can get her going... I'd be scared for her!

 

[FluffyChicken]

just seen your other post, charities are set up to help with the funding. given you'll probably not need a specialised trike by the sounds of it just get a normal one for now till needed. find what you can test/borrow in your area. still I'd just keep at it with the balance and possibly a tag along if she'll balance on it.

 

[voodoo-kid]

@Fluffy Chicken
No rush...so true. Yours got Downs too or something else? If you don't mind me asking that is.