Sam and I have always loved biking, and after having kids, we knew it was something we would continue doing as a family. Which meant researching the best way to haul around the kiddos on long rides, and the best way to introduce them to riding their own bikes. I decided I didn’t want to put the kids in the seats that sit directly on my bike just incase they got a bit wiggly and it threw me off balance, so we decided on a pull-behind trailer. Eli was 7 months old when I called his pediatrician’s office to ask if he could ride in a trailer even though it said for age 1+ years. The doctor’s words exactly: “Always a helmet, strap him in, and enjoy the ride.” Score! That day we went for our first family bike ride. If you are in the market for a trailer, I highly recommend getting a “double” even if you only have one child. The InStep Folding Trailer is the one we have used for six years now and it has held up remarkably well through 2 kids, plus it collapses flat for packing on trips, which is amazing. Well worth every penny!

When Eli got tired of riding in the trailer, but wasn’t quite ready to go on long rides on his own bike, we bought him a “tag-a-long bike” which has worked out great. It is a full bicycle without a front wheel, and attaches to the back of Sam’s bike, so when Eli pedals, it actually helps propel both bikes. Ava is just about ready for her own tag-a-long, but I know when we give up the trailer, it means all that cargo moms have to carry around for the kiddos – jackets, extra change of clothes, snacks – will just end up in a backpack on my back! I gave her a pillow to sit on, so maybe that will keep her comfy and happy in the trailer for a little while longer?!?!

A whole new segment of kids bikes is now “balance bikes.” Sam and I are officially believers in this training method, and I have so much to say, so stay tuned for the second part of my bikes post that will be dedicated to balance bikes!