BIKES

Ella has had a bike for a LONG time. She had a tricycle before she really had the motor skills to ride it. She then had a bike with training wheels and was good. Then the summer before we moved to Poland, we got her a bike for her birthday without training wheels and with handle bar breaks so she would learn everything all at once. We got it a little bigger than she needed so that she could ride it for a long time. Well that was about 2 years ago. She could not ride that bike. She is very timid when trying new things...plus I think it was just too big. We had her bike boxed and shipped to us but it didn't come until last October so we are just now having a chance to use it. Macie rode the tricycle some when she was little but she has never had a bike. Last year someone gave us a hand me down bike for Macie, but we never pumped up the tires and took her out on it. It has no training wheels, just the bike. I must say, this is a much better way to teach a kid to ride a bike. Forget the training wheels and go straight for learning to balance the bike. Macie is a bit timid, however, she is independent and likes to do things for herself.

Today we took the girls out into our courtyard and within 15 minutes, both girls were riding alone...maybe a bit wobbly, but riding none-the-less. By the end of an hour or so, they were doing great. Both girls are able to get themselves started alone. Braking is a bit more of a challenge but they had a blast. I am so proud of them!!! Here are some fun videos.

Macie when she first started

After she got better

Ella first starting

And she's off!!

Today was a successful day on the bikes. I am looking forward to future family bike rides together!!!