Ride-on toys can range from bikes, scooters, cars, and more. Choosing which type of toy can be difficult since the best one is highly individual and will largely depend on their age and developmental level, such as if a child can ride a bike. According to Kristen Morency Goldman, senior communications specialist at The Toy Association, you should follow manufacturer-specified age recommendations for ride-on toys. “This safety guidance is based on the developmental abilities of children at a given age, and the specific features of a toy,” she says. " When a toddler uses a ride-on or another toy that is meant for older kids, they risk getting hurt or getting frustrated and discouraged. We evaluated ride-on toys for children as young as one year old for safety and, perhaps more importantly, age-appropriate fun that will stand the test of time. Based on our research, these are the best ride-on toys for children of any age. Recommend for kids ages 5 and up, these classic and affordable scooters are tons of fun. It’s made of high-quality aluminum and urethane wheels, so it’s lightweight but durable enough to withstand the outdoors and any rough handling it may face over the years. On the personalization side of things, it comes in various colors, so you can choose a color tailored to your child’s preferences. It also has adjustable handlebars, so it can be adjusted to your child’s height and grow with them as they become bigger. We also love that it has an easy folding mechanism, making it easy to transport or store the scooter when needed. Kids will gain balance skills and independence, all while scooting through their neighborhood or local park. Price at time of publication: $49 The extra big pedals make it easy for little riders to get rolling and easy-grip handlebars are perfect for little hands. Rugged, durable tires help your biker roll from adventures on sidewalks, park paths, and grass, and a secret storage compartment under the seat stashes snacks. Price at time of publication: $40 The tractor moves at two speeds—2.5 or 5 miles per hour (plus reverse). Don’t worry about your child zooming full speed before they’re ready as the parental controls can block the faster speed. A rechargeable 12-volt battery is required and included, along with a charger. Weighing in at 43 pounds, this is a large toy that requires outdoor space for storage. Price at time of publication: $299 Made for indoor use, the rubber wheels are crafted to last as well as protect your floors. While this toy rides like a dream on wooden or smooth floors, it’s important to note that it is not compatible with carpets and rugs. Price at time of publication: $62 Safe for children up to 50 pounds, the car has some new upgrades that your kids will love. Wheels spin 360-degrees, the gas cap opens and closes, there’s a moving and clicking ignition, and with a high back seat and cup holders, your child will ride in style. Price at time of publication: $55 Price at time of publication: $148 The maximum weight capacity is 65 pounds so your big kid will ride with an adjustable seat belt, bright LED lights, and a 12-volt motor with three-speed options. Max speed is 3.7 miles per hour and the big car comes with a charger and rechargeable battery. Price at time of publication: $340 With a max speed of 1.2 miles per hour, your tot will feel like they are in a high-speed chase. The well-designed motorcycle rests on two back wheels for stability and includes a storage space for snacks or toys. Price at time of publication: $70 Made with a sturdy steel frame, the racer drives 2.5 and 5 miles per hour forward and 2.5 miles per hour in reverse. The parent-controlled high-speed lockout keeps younger kids safe. A hidden storage compartment under the hood stores all your dune racer accessories! Price at time of publication: $279
Push toys: Parents push the kids on the ride-onFoot to Floor: Using their feet, children move the vehicle (and themselves) forwardPedal Power: A more advanced stage, kids use pedals to propel forwardMotorized: Made for older kids that can handle this more advanced toy
Indoors Vs. Outdoors
Some toys, especially those made for younger kids, are best used indoors while others are only appropriate for the outdoors. Choose what’s best for your child’s age and stage as well as your space. If you have the backyard or neighborhood space to accommodate an outdoor ride-on toy, then that is the best option.
Longevity
Kids grow quickly. Check the age range, ask friends, and read reviews of the ride-on toy you’re considering buying. Some are big and expensive, so be sure your kid can use it for a while (or pass it on to a sibling), especially if it’s pricey and takes up a lot of space.
Why Trust Verywell Family?
Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year old daughter. With three active kids, her garage is full of ride-on toys, housing a few Cozy Coupes, multiple scooters, bikes, trikes, and more. Indoor toys are best left indoors, but you may want to put them in a cabinet or closet when not in use for safety. “Parents want to make sure they properly store ride-ons, especially ones that charge and run on batteries, to prevent damage and to keep kids from wandering around potentially dangerous situations,” says Maddie Michalik, senior editor at The Toy Insider. Kristin Morency Goldman, senior communications specialist at The Toy Association, recommends always following the manufacturer’s age-grading on products, “this safety guidance is based on the developmental abilities of children at a given age, and the specific features of the toy. When a toddler uses a ride-on or another toy that is meant for older kids, they risk getting hurt or getting frustrated and discouraged.”
More Toys for Kids
When it comes to toys for kids, our team has you covered. The Verywell Family team of editors (who are parents or have nieces and nephews of their own) have tested, gifted, and personally recommend every item we feature. Find more of our top toy picks for every developmental stage and personality phase here:
The Best Christmas Gifts for Kids The Best Developmental Toys for Babies The Best Tummy Time Toys The Best Active Toys for Toddlers The Best Outdoor Toys for Toddlers The Best Toys for Toddlers The Best Educational Toys for Toddlers The Best Phonics Toys for Preschoolers The Best Toys for Learning Letters and Numbers The Best Construction and Building Block Toys The Best Musical Toys for Children of All Ages The Best Montessori Toys to Encourage Thoughtful Play The Best Sesame Street Toys The Best Outdoor Toys for Kids of All Ages The Best Dinosaur Toys The Best Toys for Fine Motor Skills Development The Best Toys for Independent Play The Best Indoor Toys and Games for Active Play The Best Snow Toys for Kids The Best STEM Toys for Kids Best Laptop Toys for Kids The Best Social Emotional Learning Toys The Best Robot Toys The Best Cleaning Toy Sets The Black-Owned Gift Guide
