Bike Skills for Youth with Diplegia and Hemiplegia

Our friends at Enable Ireland Disability Services have produced helpful videos with physical therapists offering tools to help children and youth with ambulatory CP and hemiplegia learn to ride a bike. The videos highlight the challenges these children face compared to their peers and discusses the significant physical and mental health benefits of cycling.

These videos focus on methods and strategies for children with Cerebral Palsy, specifically hemiplegia and diplegia (GMFCS I and II), allowing them to use two-wheel bikes. It covers the importance of understanding the specific distribution of cerebral palsy to adapt teaching methods and bike adjustments effectively. Tips are provided on selecting the right bike, focusing on weight, handlebar style, and appropriate size to ensure comfort and safety.

The videos offer strategies to encourage positive engagement with bikes, such as incorporating fun activities, it discusses how to progress from a balance bike to a pedal bike as the child gains balance and confidence and provides guidance for parents and caregivers to support their children in gaining independence and enjoying the benefits of cycling.