"How do bicycle skills affect independence of children with disabilities?" 

This was the title of an article that prompted us to feature this week's look at two organisations that support children with disability in learning the art of bike riding. Teaching children to ride a bicycle independently increases their balance control, self-confidence, and self-esteem and is a rite-of-passage for many children.

But what about children with Down syndrome and other disabilities? Researchers in the Kinesiology Dept of the University of Michigan sponsored a five day bicycle camp to research the affects of the cycle instruction on the balance and general health of 63 children with disabilty. They used the range of bike training equipment devised for the www.losethetrainingwheels.org programme which aims to instruct children using a range of bikes with a series of rollers attached to the back instead of a conventional wheel. These rollers decrease in size as the child gains confidence, helping them to develop balance and self-confidence. By the end of the camp over 68% of the participants had ridden a two-wheeler at least 30 feet, and many of them were virtually independent. 

Of course once a child learns to ride the next concern will be their judgement and ability to observe road safety. One parent overcame this problem by buying the patent for a tandem-like bike, called the Buddy Bike, which allows parent and child with special needs to cycle together in safety and facilitates the child sitting up front with the use of their own pedals and handlebars.

The founder of Buddy Bikes had a child with autism and their outings on the bike opened a whole new avenue of freedom and sensory stimulation for him - managing the control of the handlebars, pedalling along with Dad and enjoying the feel of the wind in his hair. The organisation is trying to set up clubs whereby parents and their children with special needs join together to go Buddy Bike cycling.   

These bikes look and sound great. They may seem a little pricey at first ( approx. $1200) but when you consider the hours of quality enjoyment they may bring to you and your child, we'd consider is a sound investment. To find out more see www.buddybikes.com or email us to find out more about getting one to Ireland.

Wonderful ideas in both cases that provide us with plenty food for thought!