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

$29.99

My 1st Scooter

The most classic of all scooters, this Radio Flyer “My 1st Scooter” is an Amazon Exclusive and built for ages 2-5 years old. Perfect for beginner riders, this scooter is designed to help with balance and coordination. It has a specially designed turning radius that provides safety without compromising mobility. I also love the wide deck for little feet, which adds traction and stability.

YBIKE Cruze 3-Wheel Scooter

YBIKE

$62

Cruze 3-Wheel Scooter

This style gets top marks from reviewers for its quality construction, durability and ease of riding for toddlers as young as 17 months old. While it’s similar to other styles on the market, the curved handlebar (which provides more room for their body and shifts their weight back) makes it a stand out.

smartrike t1 toddler scooter

SmarTrike

$72.99

T1 Toddler Scooter

As a rule, I love pretty much anything that’s Swiss-designed. It’s just smart. And the T1 scooter from SmarTrike is no exception. The grow-with-me design allows them to start seated and graduate to standing when they’re ready. The footboard is equipped with a non-slip material and they’ll even have a place to stash their favorite toy or let’s be real–the rocks and junk they find along the way.

micro kickboard 3-in-1 deluxe scooter

Micro Kickboard

$119

Mini 3-in-1 Deluxe Plus

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.

orange scooter

Decathalon Oxelo

$69.99

B1 500, Kids' Scooter and Shell

Thanks to a unique steering system, this scooter from Decathalon encourages learning and steering and is suitable for children ages 2-5. The wheel base and wheel angle offer confidence while riding, and handlebars adjust to 4 different positions to grow with your child.

green scooter

Skidee

$54.99

Kick Scooter

Another ride-on scooter for consideration, KIDEE offers foldable seats that can easily fold up (or be removed) when your child outgrows the need for it. Made with 1-5 year olds in mind, the KIDEE offers a wide footboard, back wheel breaking and a strong and sturdy design with lean-to-turn steering that’s perfect for toddlers learning balance and motor skills. And did we mention wheels that light up?

radio flyer red scooter

Radio Flyer

$68

Scoot 2 Scooter

Normally I wouldn’t mention the same brand twice, but just look at this one! If you want to try your little one on a scooter by 12 months, you’re in luck. First, use as a ride-on toy and scoot from the seated position (and store some toys while you’re at it) then as your child grows, convert to a 4-wheel scooter by flipping the deck (which requires no tools, by the way). The durable 4 wheels will allow your little one to gain confidence and balance so they can scoot on their own. Perfect for age 1-4.

neon scooter

Hiboy

$49.99

Q1 Scooter

Perfect for ages 3-6, the Hiboy Q1 kick scooter is pre-assembled and ready to go out of the package (major check for busy parents). Offering an adjustable height that allows the scooter to grow with your child, the Hiboy is also lightweight and foldable for easy storage. And here’s to those fun light up wheels!

3-wheel scooter

Svolta

$108

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

I must admit the look and style of this award-winning scooter is what first turned my head (check out that lighting bolt). But, then I read about the adjustable handle bar and seat heights on this ride-on scooter (the seat folds up and out of the way when your child no longer needs it). Recommended for ages 1-5, a stylish choice for your consideration.

3-wheel scooters

GOMO

$59.99

Kids scooter

GOMO stands for “get out more often”, which is always good advice (especially when the weather’s nice!). This 3-wheel scooter features “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.

And check out Motherly’s Digital Classes.

mom laughing with toddler
$109

The everything toddler class

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.