2. Workshop Structure and Curriculum
, by Matt Tanner, 4 min reading time
Detailed Breakdown of Each Workshop Level
The Learn2Ride program is meticulously designed to help children progress through four levels of learning to ride a bike confidently and safely. The curriculum uses fun, easy-to-understand terms and focuses on making the learning process engaging and enjoyable for both children and instructors. Our program boasts an 89% success rate, reflecting our effective methods and dedication.
Level 1: The Flamingo
Objective: Help children feel comfortable with the bike's side-to-side leaning motion, which is crucial for balance.
- Understanding Leaning: The Flamingo helps children, especially those accustomed to training wheels, to feel the bike lean side to side. Training wheels keep the bike upright, so when riders lean, the bike "pushes back." Learning to feel comfortable with this leaning motion is the main objective of the Flamingo.
- Practical Exercise: With the right foot on the ground and the bike leaning to the right, the foot acts as the training wheel. When you push with that leg, the bike stands back up. The same applies when pedaling; if the bike leans to the right and you push down on the right pedal, the bike will return upright.
Level 2: The Frog Hop
Objective: Teach children to propel the bike forward, preparing them for gliding.
- Getting Moving: The goal is to get the bike moving forward. Some children hop and naturally glide, while others might fall to the side or stand up and start running or skipping on their feet.
- Sitting While Hopping: Ensure the child is comfortable sitting on the seat while hopping and can make long strides.
- Reinforcement: It’s essential to send kids back to practice this step more if they struggle with the Glide 15 (Level 3).
Level 3: Glide 15
Objective: Achieve a 15-second glide without putting feet on the ground.
- Using a Slight Hill: Utilize an area with a slight hill to help achieve this.
- Counting and Encouragement: Engage all children in counting and cheering for their classmates. Children who hear the counting tend to go longer on their glide.
- Incremental Goals: Start with a goal of 5 seconds and gradually build up to 15 seconds.
- Time Investment: This step is the most challenging and can take a long time to master. Typically, 45 minutes to an hour is spent on this step during workshops.
- Count Fast: Counting in seconds can be a bit too long for some kids to see progress. Speed up your count to encourage them with improvement. Completion of even the fastest 15 count, will be adequate for the next level.
Level 4: Find Your Pedals
Objective: Combine all learned skills to start pedaling and riding independently.
- Safety Talk: Discuss the potential for hitting shins with pedals and demonstrate how to Hero Hop with a wider stance to avoid injuries.
- Looking Forward: Emphasize the importance of looking forward, not down, to find the pedals. Practice finding pedals without looking before the real run.
- Continuous Pedaling: Explain that staying upright and moving depends on continuous pedaling. Practice pedaling while holding the handlebars to ensure understanding.
- Additional Coaching: Some kids may take more time to understand the concept of pedaling, especially if transitioning from a strider bike. Ensure these children get the extra attention they need.
Teaching Methodologies and Strategies
Our teaching approach is centered on patience, encouragement, and positive reinforcement. Here are some key strategies:
- Modeling: Demonstrate each skill before asking children to try it.
- Breakdown: Divide complex skills into smaller, manageable steps.
- Repetition: Encourage practice to build muscle memory and confidence.
- Positive Feedback: Celebrate small victories and provide constructive feedback.
Age-Appropriate Teaching Techniques
While our workshops cater to children aged 6 and up, it's important to tailor your teaching techniques to the individual needs of each child. Younger children may need more hands-on guidance and encouragement, while older children might benefit from more detailed explanations and challenges.
Handling Different Learning Paces and Styles
Every child learns at their own pace, and it's essential to be adaptable. Some children may quickly grasp the skills, while others may need more time and practice. Be patient, offer encouragement, and provide additional support as needed. Remember, the goal is to make learning to ride a bike a positive and rewarding experience for every child.
- Modeling and Demonstration: Ask for volunteers to demonstrate for the class.
- Managing Different Learning Paces: Divide the class into groups working on different steps if you have volunteers. One group can work on Glide 15, while another practices the Hero Hop.
Woom Training Video
Many find this video helpful in grasping some of the concepts we teach at Learn2Ride. Please watch to see some of our steps in action.