Healthy Active Habits from a Young Age

In teaching the next generation to be active and sustainable, we invite you to discover new ways to travel with your child.

Walking is free, great for mental health and physical health, and a great way to spend time together.

But we know mornings can be a rush, and the car can seem like the easiest option – but going by bike can take a similar amount of time, while benefitting your mind, body and wallet. Try switching out the nursery/childcare/school run one day a week, and see how it changes your morning.

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How to Travel by Bike with Children

A range of options are available for cycling with babies, toddlers and children, including front or rear bike seats, trailers, tag-alongs, and longtail or cargo bikes with child seats. It is important to ensure that the style of seat you choose will fit your bike. Advice on this can be sought from bike retailers, websites like CyclingUK or there are Family Cycling groups online that are full of advice from other parents and carers, and the search function means you should find an answer to your question.

E-Bikes

Children add weight to your bike, so why not explore electric bikes? An e-bike is a regular bike with the addition of a motor to assist in pedalling – meaning the bike doesn’t feel heavy, and the hills become manageable without breaking a sweat. An e-bike is not the same as a moped as you must pedal to receive assistance from the motor, they do not require a licence, tax, or insurance to ride. There is an age limit of 14 or over to be able to use a e-bike.

You can find out more information on e-bikes from Home Energy Scotland.

Locally, e-bikes are available to hire out:

Aberdeen: Voi | Aberdeen, your e-bikes are here

Aberdeenshire: Ebike Aberdeenshire - Hire an e-bike and explore Aberdeenshire

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Affordability

Affordability can be a barrier for families looking to start travelling by bike, but local organisations can provide support. If your workplace supports a Cycle To Work scheme, this can make it much more affordable.

Second-hand bikes

Alternatively, the below all help people access affordable second-hand bicycles, cycling equipment, and advice, making active travel more accessible for everyone:

Online marketplaces are another great place to look for a second-hand bike or child bike accessories. If you are buying second-hand, it's a good idea to undertake a safety check before you take your new bike for a spin. Walk Wheel Cycle Trust's guide to doing an 'M check' will help you find out if your bike is safe to ride. You may also want to have a second-hand bike serviced too, to ensure your bike is in best working condition.

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Route Planning

If you are cycling with children for the first time, it’s a good idea to plan your route. Look at traffic free or quiet routes, choose a quieter junction, and think about where you might secure your bike at your destination.

Think about practical things like how you get a child on and off a bike seat – whether you need to be leaning your bike against a wall or not to do that, for example. Before long it’ll become second nature, especially if it’s a routine trip to nursery, the shops or the park.

CycleStreets is a great tool for planning cycle journeys, making use of pathways and finding cycle parking.

We also have local maps available:

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Confidence

For those who would like to build confidence before travelling independently, local community groups and family-friendly cycling activities can offer support and encouragement.

The Aberdeenshire Bothy and other local organisations regularly share opportunities for people to connect with others and gain experience travelling actively.

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Benefits

Whether travelling by bike, walking, wheeling or scooting, there are many ways for families to make everyday journeys more active, affordable, and fun. Try travelling actively to nursery or school, visiting the park, travelling to activities, or picking up some groceries.

Travelling by bike with children can help build confidence, independence, and road awareness while creating opportunities for families to spend time together outdoors. It is excellent for mental and physical health, cheaper than a private car, and better for our environment.

And, it doesn’t need to be all-or-nothing – try a day a week and see how you get on. With the right equipment, route planning, and support, cycling with children can be a realistic option for day-to-day journeys.