Now that the weather has perked up and your little one is on the move, perhaps it’s time to think about their mode of transportation? We love a balance bike in preparation for learning to ride a bike, but if they’re not quite there or up for another similar challenge, scooters are a great choice for your toddler’s first set of wheels.

When can you introduce a scooter for toddlers?

Generally speaking, your toddler is ready for a scooter when they are able to walk smoothly and with a steady gait. And since motor skills can differ, your child’s physical ability will be the best indicator of scooter readiness (though you’ll find this usually falls within the 2 to 3-year-old age range).

Aside from the obvious fun factor, scooting also has many benefits for toddlers, from motor skill and muscle development to coordination and decision-making skills. Now that spring is here and we’re able to spend more time outside (which has its own set of benefits), perhaps scooting will be on the agenda? Who knows, you might want to go for a scoot with your little one, too, just to keep up. But don’t forget your toddler’s helmet (and your own)!

Ready to ride? Here are 10 of the best scooters for toddlers we’ve found.

Scooters For Toddlers

Radio

Radio Flyer

My 1st Scooter

$29.99

The most classic of all scooters, this Radio Flyer “My 1st Scooter” is a great option for little ones who are still working on their balance and coordination. The ultra wide deck and specially designed turning radius provides plenty of safety and security, but still gives them enough mobility to build their skills.

micro kickboard 3-in-1 deluxe scooter

Micro Kickboard

Micro Mini 3-in-1 Scooter

$119

For the parent who likes to plan ahead, this 3 stages scooter from Micro Kickboard will grow with your child (and is geared for ages 1 to 5). First, as a ride-on scooter (offering two seat heights) with the help of an adult to offer direction and stability, then as a ride-on scooter by themselves, and lastly as the stand-on Micro Mini Deluxe with adjustable-height handlebar. Like all their models, the wheels are super smooth, but still have enough stick to keep new riders from face-planting.

green scooter

Skidee

Kick Scooter

$49.99

We absolutely love the versatility and longevity of this 2-in-2 design from Skidee. Unlike other sit-to-stand styles which generally keep the seat fixed in place until you remove it, this one can be folded up and down as desired. And with a handle bar that can be raised from 25-34 inches, it can easily be used from age one all the way to age twelve(!) or so with an impressive weight limit of up to 130 pounds. (Which also makes it a great option for siblings who might be willing to share.) It offers a wide footboard, back wheel breaking and a strong and sturdy construction with lean-to-turn steering that’s perfect for toddlers learning balance and motor skills. We also appreciate the folding handle which makes transport and storage super easy. And did we mention wheels that light up?

3-wheel scooter

Svolta

"Ace" 2-in-1 Sit and Stand Toddler Convertible scooter

$108

When you’ve got a little one who leaves the house with big plans and then craps out at the furthest point from home, the fold down seat of the super cool Svolta Ace really comes in handy. And while we certainly love it for its stylish good looks, this award-winning style also packs an intuitive and well-crafted design. Similar to other three wheel styles, even the youngest riders can quickly pick up on the lean-to-steer technique, which is sturdy and smooth. The seat can be adjusted and the handle bars raised from 22-27 inches which generally suits kids up until about age five.

3-wheel scooters

GOMO

Kids scooter

$59.99

GOMO stands for “get out more often”, which is always good advice (especially when the weather’s nice!). This 3-wheel scooter features the same lean to turn steering that helps toddlers practice coordination before moving on to a bigger scooter. The wide foot bed and rubber grip lets them place their feet safely, and the foot brake helps them practice safe stopping without touching the ground. Recommended for ages 2-5, with an adjustable hand bar to grow with your child. I also like the safety nose bumper on the front of scooter, perfect for softening bumps along the way. And yes, light up wheels, because they’re awesome.

Yvolution Y Glider Kiwi Scooter

Yvolution

Y Glider Kiwi Scooter

$69.99

The key feature of the Y Glider Kiwi is its extra wide ribbed deck which offers plenty of grip and enough room for both of their feet–a bonus for learning to balance as they cruise. There’s a rear foot brake to help them slow and stop as well as light up front wheels that improve visibility if they’re riding at night. The handle bars can be adjusted to three heights from 22-30 inches and most conveniently can be completely removed when taking it on the go.

And check out Motherly’s Digital Classes.

mom laughing with toddler

The everything toddler class

$109

In this class, you will learn everything you need to know to successfully manage through the toddler years, from navigating tantrums to toddler autonomy.

A version of this story was published April 8, 2021. It has beeen updated.