Skateboarding for Kids
Skateboard can be really fun for your kids!
Skateboarding ? riding a skateboard and performing stunts or tricks is very popular with kids and teenagers and has formed a whole subculture in South Africa.
As well as a social experience, skateboarding can be a great way to keep fit!
A video of Skateboarding for Kids
Information on Skateboarding for Kids in South Africa
Will your kids enjoy skateboarding?
Do your kids want to improve their balance, get fit and make new friends?
Why not try skateboarding?
Skateboarding is not just very popular with young people, it’s a great kids activity for a number of reasons including:
- Versatile: It can be done anywhere there is a flat surface
- Skateboard doubles up as a useful form of transportation in towns and cities
- Builds discipline as it takes practise and patience to learn
- Social
- Improves co-ordination
- Relatively cheap, and doesn’t require a lot of equipment or expensive lessons
Skateboarding requires a certain amount of confidence and is probably best suited to adventurous kids who like to be active and don’t mind getting a few bumps and bruises. Timid children might find skateboarding more nerve wracking but it could also be a good way to build their confidence.
Children can start to learn to ride a skateboard at around 6 years of age with close adult supervision. Make sure they wear long sleeved shirts and pants and have the right footwear. Safety gear is also a must.
How can you organise skateboarding lessons and activities for your kids?
Not sure how to get your kids started with skateboarding?
You can find skateboard instruction and kids’ holiday programs online and at local skateboard clubs and shops which can teach the basics as well as more complicated moves for more experienced skateboarders. Skateboard lessons usually start at around R200 for a two hour session one on one, and less for group lessons. If you don’t have protective gear you can usually hire it at a small cost. Safety gear includes:
- Helmet
- Knee and elbow pads
- Gloves
- Chin guard
Your child will need appropriate footwear, either trainers or skate shoes. Boards can be rented or bought from your local skate shop. Beginners typically start with a basic skateboard and once they get more experience can investigate other options such as a longboard. Lessons for beginners provide the basics of how to push off, ride and maintain a good stance on the board, then progress to ramps, games and tricks.
For a kids’ activity that combines fitness, fun and practicality, why not give skateboarding a go?