A trike, or tricycle, is a three-wheeled ride-on toy designed for young children to develop balance, coordination, gross motor skills, and confidence through pedaling, steering, and outdoor play. Trikes are suitable for children from approximately 10-12 months onwards with parent-controlled push trikes featuring steering handles allowing adults to guide and control the trike whilst baby sits securely with harness support. Around 18-24 months, toddlers can begin learning to pedal with assistance using convertible trikes that transition from push mode to independent pedaling. By 2-3 years, most children can pedal independently on traditional tricycles with three-wheel stability providing confidence. Always choose age-appropriate models, ensure proper safety features like harnesses for younger children, supervise outdoor play, and use helmets for safety regardless of age or skill level.

Yes, trikes are specifically designed with safety in mind for toddlers and young children, featuring stable three-wheel construction preventing tipping and providing secure balance, sturdy frames made from durable materials supporting children's weight safely, safety harnesses or 5-point restraints keeping younger children securely seated, secure footrests preventing feet from getting caught in wheels, parent-controlled push handles allowing adults to steer and control speed for younger riders, and rounded edges with no sharp parts preventing injuries. For maximum safety, always ensure your child wears a properly fitted helmet during trike use, supervise children during outdoor play especially near roads or slopes, use trikes on safe, flat surfaces away from traffic and hazards, check that the trike is age-appropriate and properly assembled, and teach children safe riding practices including stopping, steering, and awareness of surroundings.

Trikes come in several types for different ages and needs including push trikes designed for younger toddlers (10 months to 2 years) featuring parental push handles for steering and control, safety harnesses, and footrests for babies learning to ride. Pedal trikes are for older toddlers and preschoolers (2-5 years) who can pedal independently, offering traditional tricycle design with handlebars, pedals, and three-wheel stability. Convertible or grow-with-me trikes transition from parent-controlled push mode to independent pedaling as children develop, offering long-term value from toddler to preschool years. Foldable trikes provide compact storage and portability perfect for travel, holidays, and small spaces with easy folding mechanisms. Balance trikes without pedals help younger children develop balance and coordination before transitioning to pedal bikes. Choose based on your child's age, developmental stage, and your needs for portability and longevity.