When Addie’s interest in ride-on toys began, I was supremely dismayed. Most things I found were not made for her- plain and simple, most toys out there do not include children with dwarfism in their test audience. So, we POLP (parents of Little People) often have to ask what’s out there for my child?
After a Facebook thread started, I gathered up information found there, plus a few of my favorite finds and made this list! I hope it helps you! (And I promise, while many things out there are not made for children with Achondroplasia (or any form of dwarfism) there are plenty of items that are perfect nonetheless!
1. Fisher-Price Little People Music Parade Ride On: This has been a favorite since the early days. Both the musical aspect, which can be used before riding, and the size of this toy make it ideal! Addie, at almost 4, still LOVES it!
2. Radio Flyer Fold To Go Trike: This trike is great, adjusts and the price is right!
3. Yvolution Y Glider- check it out. It’s perfect and grows with your child! The seat and size are perfect for children with achondroplasia!
We own a Kettler and added the Avenir Pedal Blocks to make reaching the pedals easier! They are really easy to slide on and take off! The Kettler itself comes with a handle, to help guide your child, and a handbrake that is easy to reach. Addie jumps on and off of her trike easily, and enjoys riding it around the garage when it’s too cold outside!
As a side note: I’ve found my own Bern helmet to fit her well. Mine is a small, and I adjust it all the way down. We are getting her an extra small helmet this summer, perfect because it covers the back of the head and close to the ears, has a built-in visor, and is fully adjustable.
5. Fisher Price Grow With Me Sit-to-Stand Scooter: Everyone loves this one… and it’s perfect to share with baby sister! The rear-wheels give extra stability and the easily adjustable handle bar makes sharing perfect- even when friends are over! We have this one AND the Radio Flyer My First Scooter, both of which offer 3 wheels for better balance and adjustable handle bars!
6. Plasma Car: We actually got Addie one of these (because she loves to ride them at her friends’ houses… but we have yet to give it to her because her birthday isn’t for another month! It’s awesome because kids can sit and steer with their arms- no need to pedal. It is easy to balance and, again, works for all children!
7. Scuttle Bug Ride On: Every time I see one of these, I want one! The design is adorable, it’s light weight and perfect to grow with your child!
9. Kinderfeets Wooden Balance Bike: I love the idea of a balance bike, but they can be hard to find in smaller sizes. I love this bike because it is smaller AND offers a tricycle design- for better balance and stabilization for “achon” children with hypotonia.
10. Nathan Hooper: If you can, have Nathan build you a bike! While this is not for us quite yet, I cannot wait to get Addie a custom bike when she’s older… something she picks just for her. Sometimes having something built for you is totally worth the cost and time- Nathan Hooper’s attention to detail, love of his craft, and the many people who sing his praises is a true testament to that!
After those 10 suggestions, what are some that I forgot!? I would love to add to this list! What has worked for your child with dwarfism?
I am so glad there are toys out there for everyone. What a sweet little girl too.
Me too! And thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…New Traditions and Non-Candy Easter Baskets
Happy early birthday to Adelaide! I hope she really enjoys her scooter. I am very happy that you are able to find some things that work for her. I have pituitary dwarfism and stopped growing when I was 10. I understand how difficult it is to find things that fit right. Everything from clothes to seat belts – and helmets.
Alicia Taylor recently posted…How to make homemade vegetable broth
It really can be so hard!!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…New Traditions and Non-Candy Easter Baskets
I am so happy to see that there are toys for her, and she can really enjoy the outdoors and do things that other children can enjoy. I wish you the best and she is beautiful.
Thank you so much!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…New Traditions and Non-Candy Easter Baskets
Your sweet pea is just so adorable. I smile everytime I see her picture in one of your posts.
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Awe- thank you!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…New Traditions and Non-Candy Easter Baskets