Ride-On Toys: Pedal Cars And Pedal Airplane

While most believe that children's ride on toys like pedal cars and pedal planes do not require protective gear, knee and elbow pads and helmets because most ride on toys are powered by little feet.

The choice for protective gear should be considered and as parents you want to make sure your children are safe when they use these toys.

They are not made to achieve high-speeds on the sidewalk and are built for short rides. Children will determine the speed of ride on toy because they are using their feet to power the toy.

Buying a used pedal car or pedal plane:

If you are considering the purchase of a used ride on toy you will need to first determine if the product has been subject to recalls. Visit the manufacturer's website or contact them with the model number or serial number. Produce recalls happen and the reason for the recall is important.

You can also visit the CPSC which is short for the Consumer Product Safety Commission or visit recalls.gov. Once you determine that a used ride on toy was not part of a recall you should then do a safety inspection and make sure all the parts are in working order.

Check for deterioration by looking for sharp edges, rough spots, or dents that could injury your child. Exposed edges can injure your child and will need repair before they are allowed to ride. Also, make sure that screws, nuts and bolts are tight.

Look for broken or damaged parts and replace them. While it is true, many adults are collectors of pedal planes and pedal cars so the condition of a used one will determine the cost.

With that said, please consider buying a brand new pedal car or pedal airplane. They are a wide variety of styles and models available and with the help of online searches you can have your child riding in no time.

Where to ride?

Pedal cars and pedal planes are designed for a flat riding surface like a sidewalk. They are not meant for trails, in the hills or mountains. As parents you need to make sure to avoid any size hill, rough terrain, gravel or pebble paths and mud-covered roads.

The ground needs to be flat because your child use their feet to power the car and you do not want a toddler flying downhill. This will result in injury. Your child should understand that pedal care and planes are not designed for riding on these types of surfaces.

Insisting that they ride where it is safe and only with your supervision. Teach them the rules and why they are important. More importantly, never allow your kids to ride where there is danger lurking such as parking lots, high traffic roads or near a swimming pool.

Other rules for consideration:

1. Your child's clothing is important because you do not want loose accessories to get caught in the pedal car. For example, headbands with ribbons, hoodies and sweatshirts with draw-strings, scarves, and shoelaces should not be allowed when riding. Protective gear should be considered.
2. If you have the instruction manual read it and follow the safety guidelines.
3. Check for recalls
4. Single rider at one time and follow the recommended age requirement
5. Avoid cars
6. Avoid rough terrain
7. Remember, pedal cars and planes are not bumper cars

By playing it safe and following the rules your child will have a blast when using ride on toys. As a parent, by taking a few safety preventative measures, your toddler will play safe when outdoors under your supervision! Outside play time is wonderful for children and the exercise is important too.