As parents, we are constantly on the lookout for activities that not only engage and entertain our children but also promote their physical well-being. One such activity that has gained immense popularity in recent years is skateboarding. And when it comes to skateboards, the compact and colorful penny boards seem to stand out. But before we jump on the bandwagon, it’s important to consider whether penny boards are truly suitable for our little ones. In this blog post, we delve into this question, unraveling the pros and cons, and offering helpful insights and recommendations to assist you in making an informed decision. So, let’s lace up our shoes and embark on this journey together, exploring the world of penny boards for children.
What are Penny Boards?
Penny boards have gained popularity in recent years as a stylish and compact alternative to traditional skateboards. These small, lightweight boards have become a favorite among riders of all ages, offering a fun and convenient way to cruise around town or perform tricks at the skatepark. In this blog section, we will delve into what penny boards are, their origin, and highlight their key features and components.
A Brief History
Penny boards originated in the 1970s in Australia, where they were created by Ben Mackay and his father in their backyard shed. The original idea behind the penny board was to provide a small plastic skateboard that would be more portable and maneuverable than traditional wooden boards. The Mackay family initially used plastic injection molding techniques to create these boards, making them durable and lightweight.
The popularity of penny boards soared in the 2010s when they were rebranded and reintroduced to the market by the Australian company, Penny Skateboards. Since then, penny boards have become a global phenomenon, loved by riders for their portability, vibrant designs, and smooth cruising experience.
Key Features and Components
Penny boards are known for their unique features and components that contribute to their distinct riding experience. Here are the key aspects to consider:
1. Size and Shape
- Penny boards are typically smaller in size compared to traditional skateboards, measuring around 22 to 27 inches in length. This compact size makes them highly portable and easy to carry around.
- The boards have a distinctive cruiser shape, with a wide and curved deck that offers stability and control while riding.
2. Deck Material
- Penny boards are made from high-quality plastic, known as Penny’s secret plastic formula. This proprietary plastic material provides durability, flexibility, and a lightweight feel, ensuring a smooth ride.
3. Wheels
- Penny boards come with soft and grippy wheels that are designed for cruising on various surfaces. These wheels offer a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing most of the impact from rough terrains.
- The wheels typically have a diameter of 59mm, providing a good balance between speed and maneuverability.
4. Trucks
- Penny boards feature high-quality trucks that connect the wheels to the deck. These trucks are made from aluminum, providing strength and stability while riding.
- The trucks are designed to be responsive, allowing riders to make quick turns and execute tricks with ease.
5. Bearings
- Penny boards are equipped with ABEC-7 bearings, known for their smoothness and durability. These bearings ensure a fast and effortless ride, reducing friction and allowing for longer glides.
Benefits and Comparison
Here’s a quick comparison of the benefits of riding a penny board:
| Benefit | Penny Board | Traditional Skateboard |
|---|---|---|
| Portability | Lightweight and compact for easy transportation | Bulkier and less convenient to carry |
| Maneuverability | Easy to make tight turns and navigate tight spaces | Less agile and limited in tight spots |
| Smooth Ride | Soft wheels and flexible deck for a comfortable ride | Harder wheels and stiffer deck can be less forgiving |
| Versatility | Suitable for cruising, tricks, and commuting | Primarily designed for tricks and skatepark use |
Benefits of Penny Boards for Children
Penny boards have become increasingly popular among children and teenagers in recent years. These small, lightweight skateboards offer a range of benefits that not only make them a fun and enjoyable activity but also contribute to the overall development of children. In this blog section, we will explore the advantages of penny boards for children, including improved balance and coordination, increased physical activity, and the promotion of outdoor play.
Improved Balance and Coordination
One of the key benefits of penny boards for children is the improvement in balance and coordination skills. Riding a penny board requires maintaining balance while maneuvering the board with precision. This helps children develop a strong sense of balance and enhances their overall coordination.
- Riding a penny board can improve a child’s ability to maintain balance, which is essential for many physical activities and sports.
- It enhances the development of coordination skills as children learn to control their movements while riding the board.
- The constant adjustments required for balance and coordination help children improve their fine motor skills.
Increased Physical Activity
In today’s digital age, it is crucial to encourage children to engage in physical activities. Penny boards provide an excellent opportunity for children to get moving and enjoy the outdoors.
- Riding a penny board is a low-impact form of exercise that engages various muscle groups, including the legs, core, and arms.
- It promotes cardiovascular health as children engage in a moderate-intensity physical activity while riding the board.
- Penny boards allow children to explore their neighborhoods, parks, or skate parks, providing an enjoyable way to stay active.
Promotion of Outdoor Play
With the increasing reliance on technology, outdoor play has become essential for children’s overall development. Penny boards offer a fun and exciting way to encourage children to spend more time outdoors.
- Riding a penny board encourages children to explore their surroundings, promoting a sense of adventure and curiosity.
- It provides an alternative to sedentary activities and screen time, helping children stay active and engaged.
- Penny boards can be used in various outdoor settings, such as skate parks or smooth pavements, making them versatile for different play environments.
Safety Considerations
When engaging children in activities such as penny boarding, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some key safety considerations:
- Ensure children wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads, to protect against potential injuries.
- Supervise children while they are using penny boards, especially when they are starting out or riding in unfamiliar areas.
- Teach children about road and pedestrian safety, emphasizing the importance of obeying traffic rules and being aware of their surroundings.
Safety Considerations
When it comes to penny boards, safety should always be a top priority. These compact and lightweight skateboards are popular among children, but it’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure their well-being while using them. In this blog section, we will discuss some key safety considerations and provide tips on how to keep your child safe while riding a penny board.
Wearing Protective Gear
Protective gear plays a crucial role in preventing injuries and minimizing the impact of accidents. Here are some protective gear items your child should wear while riding a penny board:
- Helmet: A properly fitting helmet is a must-have. It protects the head from potential injuries and should meet safety standards such as ASTM or CPSC certifications. Ensure that the helmet is snug and covers the forehead, and that the chin strap is securely fastened.
- Knee and Elbow Pads: These pads protect vulnerable joints from scrapes, cuts, and fractures. They should fit well and be securely fastened to provide optimal protection.
- Wrist Guards: Wrist guards are essential to protect against fractures and sprains. They should be worn snugly, covering the palms and wrists, and offer adequate support during falls.
Choosing the right protective gear for your child is crucial. Ensure that the gear fits properly, is comfortable to wear, and is made from durable materials. Regularly inspect the gear for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary.
Choosing Suitable Riding Environments
The choice of riding environment greatly impacts safety. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a suitable place for your child to ride their penny board:
- Smooth Surfaces: Encourage your child to ride on smooth and even surfaces, such as pavement or skate parks. Avoid rough terrains, uneven sidewalks, or areas with loose gravel, as these can increase the risk of accidents.
- Low-Traffic Areas: Opt for areas with minimal vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Quiet residential streets or designated skate parks are ideal choices to reduce the chances of collisions or accidents.
- Well-Lit Areas: Ensure that the riding area is well-lit, especially if your child intends to ride in the evenings or during low-light conditions. Good visibility is essential for both the rider and other road users.
Supervising Children During Penny Board Activities
Supervision is crucial, especially for younger children who may be less experienced or prone to taking risks. Here are some tips to ensure your child’s safety while riding a penny board:
- Adult Supervision: Always have an adult present to supervise your child’s penny board activities. This ensures immediate assistance in case of emergencies or accidents.
- Establish Rules and Boundaries: Set clear rules and boundaries for your child’s riding activities. Discuss the importance of following traffic rules, riding within designated areas, and avoiding dangerous maneuvers.
- Regular Check-Ins: Regularly check on your child’s progress and riding habits. Address any concerns or issues promptly and reinforce safe riding practices.
By implementing these safety considerations, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries while your child enjoys riding their penny board.
| Safety Considerations | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Wearing Protective Gear | – Prevents head injuries- Minimizes joint injuries- Protects wrists from fractures |
| Choosing Suitable Riding Environments | – Reduces risk of accidents- Minimizes collisions- Ensures good visibility |
| Supervising Children During Penny Board Activities | – Immediate assistance in emergencies- Reinforces safe riding practices- Addresses concerns promptly |
Remember, safety is paramount, and it’s crucial to educate and remind your child about responsible penny board usage. With the right precautions in place, your child can enjoy the thrill of riding a penny board while staying safe.
Age and Skill Considerations
When it comes to introducing children to the exciting world of penny boards, it is important to consider their age and skill level. Starting at the right age and possessing the necessary skills will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for young riders. In this section, we will explore the appropriate age range for children to start using penny boards and the skills they should possess.
Age Range
Determining the right age for children to start using penny boards is essential for their safety and success. While every child is different, there are some general age ranges that can be considered:
- 6 to 8 years old: At this age, children usually have developed enough balance and coordination to begin learning how to ride a penny board. However, parental supervision and guidance are crucial during this stage.
- 9 to 12 years old: Children in this age range tend to have better motor skills, making it easier for them to handle a penny board. They can also understand and follow safety instructions more effectively.
- 13 years old and above: By this age, most children have developed the necessary physical abilities and cognitive skills to ride a penny board confidently. They can also grasp advanced tricks and techniques if they choose to pursue them.
Necessary Skills
Along with the appropriate age range, it is important for children to possess certain skills before they start using penny boards. These skills will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
1. Balance:
- The ability to maintain balance while standing on a moving surface is crucial when riding a penny board.
- Children should be able to stand on one foot for a few seconds without losing balance.
- Practicing balance exercises, such as standing on one foot or using a balance board, can help improve this skill.
2. Coordination:
- Good hand-eye coordination is necessary for steering and controlling the penny board.
- Children should be able to perform simple tasks that require coordination, like catching a ball or tying shoelaces.
3. Safety Awareness:
- Children must be able to understand and follow safety instructions to avoid accidents and injuries.
- They should be aware of the importance of wearing protective gear, such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads.
- Teaching children about the potential risks and dangers associated with penny boarding is crucial.
Comparison Table: Age and Skill Considerations
| Age Range | Necessary Skills |
|---|---|
| 6 to 8 years old | – Basic balance skills |
| – Developing hand-eye coordination | |
| – Following safety instructions | |
| 9 to 12 years old | – Improved balance and coordination |
| – Better understanding of safety measures | |
| 13 years old and above | – Advanced balance and coordination |
| – Strong safety awareness |
By considering the appropriate age range and necessary skills, parents can ensure that their children have a solid foundation for learning and enjoying penny boarding. Remember, safety should always be the top priority, and children should never be pushed beyond their capabilities.
Final thoughts on penny boards for kids
In conclusion, penny boards can be a great choice for children, as long as parents take into account their child’s age, abilities, and safety measures. It is important for parents to evaluate their child’s readiness and provide the necessary supervision and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Greetings! I’m Ava Wilson, an avid adventurer and the driving force behind Outdoors Thrills 360. With a profound love for nature, I’m committed to sharing my experiences and expertise to inspire others to embrace the great outdoors. Join me on a journey to discover the world’s breathtaking landscapes and uncover the best tips and gear for an unforgettable adventure.