Looking for an exciting new toy for your 1-year-old?
Ride-on vehicle toys are more popular than ever in Australia, especially amongst parents with young children, and for good reason. According to the Good Play Guide, playing with toy vehicles can help children develop motor skills and creativity.
But some parents worry about safety. After all, can a 1-year-old really be trusted to stay safe on a ride-on vehicle? They absolutely can!
In this article, we’ll cover how you can keep your kids safe and the pre-existing safety features on ride-on vehicles. If you’re worried, this will help put your mind at ease.
What is a Ride-On Vehicle?
A ride-on vehicle is a toy designed for children to move and drive around. Models for younger children are often push-powered, while designs for older kids typically use a battery. You can even get pedal-powered designs, which act like an introduction to bikes and tricycles for younger kids.
Ride-on vehicles are designed for independent play, but a child should never be left completely unsupervised. They also come in various types, from ride-on monster trucks and two-seater buggies to dirt bikes and branded designs.
Are There Any Benefits to Ride-On Vehicles for 1-Year-Olds?
Ride-on vehicles are fun for the whole family. They can even help you encourage your child to play outside, which can help them develop into happier, more creative, more attentive, and less anxious people (according to the Australian Institute of Family Studies).
But ride-on vehicles also help children grow. They boost their motor skills, spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
Are Ride-On Vehicles Safe for 1-Year-Olds?
Ride-on vehicles are a safe, fulfilling toy for most infants and toddlers. But, inevitably, you should always follow a few key precautions to keep them safe.
First, ensure they’re ready for a ride-on vehicle, and choose a toy that suits your child’s age and developmental level. You should introduce new toys slowly and carefully, making the most of safety features and protective gear.
Of course, always check your child’s toys for damage before they start playing and ensure they’re playing safely at all times.
Want a little more detail? Read on for a checklist of factors to consider when picking a ride-on vehicle for your 1-year-old.
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Is Your Child Ready for a Ride-On Toy?
Make sure your child is ready for a ride-on toy before you buy one.
But how do you know when that is?
Look for signs that they can sit independently without falling over, stand up without wobbling, shift their weight without losing their balance, and grip objects effectively and adequately.
You might be wondering if there’s a specific age limit for ride-on toys. In reality, it’s not that simple. Children develop at different speeds, so you need to look for specific signs rather than waiting for them to reach a certain age.
And if you’re struggling to decide whether they’re ready, you can always consult a clinician or your family doctor. Medical professionals are trained to recognise key milestones in child development, and they can help you determine how your child is progressing and whether they’re ready.
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Choose the Right Toy for Your Child
This bit is difficult. Once your child is ready, how can you pick a toy that suits them?
Above all, make sure it’s the right size. Your child should be able to reach the foot pegs without stretching and grip onto the handlebars with relaxed arms. You should also check that your chosen toy can support your child’s full weight if needed.
For an infant or toddler, choose a toy with broad wheels, supportive seats, low ground clearance (how close the lowest part of a vehicle is to the ground) and soft edges. Some models for toddlers even come with walkable sections to help your child get used to independent walking.
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Introduce a Ride-On Toy to Your Child Slowly
This might seem like an obvious addition to our guide, but it’s essential.
Always introduce a new toy or experience slowly. Start by assisting your child so that they know how to sit correctly and steer the vehicle around by themselves. Get them to practice getting on and off independently, so they understand how to move correctly without getting hurt.
And always supervise your children when they’re learning to play with a new toy (as infants and toddlers are infamous for getting into trouble when your back is turned).
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Research Safety Features and Regulations
The easiest way to keep your child safe on a ride-on toy is to make the most of safety features and your region’s toy regulations. For example, in Australia, all children’s toys must conform to AS/NZS 1808124 standards. Most toys will be marked with that standard on their physical packaging or on the surface of the toy itself.
Toy manufacturers also have to state an age recommendation for their products. Toys made for children under 36 months cannot have small parts or sharp edges, to reduce the chance of choking or injury.
Safety features can also help you prevent accidents and injuries. Look for things like easy-to-grasp handles, rounded edges, broad wheels for stability, and durable materials. It sounds simple, but these things keep a ride-on toy stable and reduce the chance of falls or other issues.
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Guidelines to Playing Safely
Above all, your child needs a safe space to play. Try to find a flat, open space that’s free of obstacles, and clear any spills (both solid and liquid) from the surface.
You should also consider getting them some protective gear. Helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads can help prevent injury and give you peace of mind. They’re also a great reminder to your child that they need to be careful with certain parts of their body.
And finally, always set limits on playtime. A tired child is more likely to make mistakes or struggle with their balance. And overexcited children are way more likely to forget any rules you’ve set as well.
Can I Buy Safe Ride-On Toys for My 1-Year-Old in Australia?
Definitely! In fact, in Australia, the market for ride-on toys for toddlers and infants has only grown in recent years. Parents are drawn to the independence, safety, and educational benefits of ride-on toys.
Not to mention, these toys are much more fulfilling than screens or tablets.
They can help your child discover how they can influence their surroundings, teach them how to adapt to changing situations, boost their confidence, and even encourage teamwork in certain settings.
Want your child to explore the world at their own pace? A ride-on toy is the perfect choice!
High-Quality, Durable Ride-On Toys for 1-Year-Olds From MC Wholesalers
Searching for the perfect ride-on toy for your infant or toddler? We’ve got what you’re looking for.
At MC Wholesalers, we believe in putting your child’s safety first and helping your child find a healthy taste for adventure. We’re proud to offer a range of ride-on vehicles that are safe for really young kids, as well as options for their older siblings.
We sell a wide range of ride-on toys, from sports cars and quad bikes to branded options like ride-on Lamborghinis, to help your kid feel cool no matter what.
Explore our range of ride-on toys today!