Have you been dreaming of getting your kid on a skateboard since the day they were born?
Whether that’s the case or it’s a brand new idea, it’s an exciting one!
Skating is an extremely fun sport and a great workout to share with your kids.
What Is A Good Age For Kids To Start Skateboarding?
In general, doctors say five years old is a safe age to start introducing skateboarding to your kid.
Depending on the child, they may be able to grasp it at this age or may not.
You’ll likely find it much easier to teach your kid to skate once they are between the ages of 6 to 10.
The stronger motor skills and muscles developed with age will make it easier for them.
There are definitely exceptions where kids younger than five excel at skating.
But, be aware your kid will be at more risk of getting injured at that age.
Because they are young, it’s important to not only watch them at all times but stay close to help them.
Make sure they wear their protective gear each time they skate, too—more on that below.
How to Choose the Right Board
You don’t want to go out and pick just any skateboard for your kid.
It’s best to buy them one of decent quality that will be comfortable for them to ride.
Get familiar with the best construction, size, price point, and safety gear to invest in to set them up for success.
Do I Need to Get a Kid-Sized Board?
This depends on the size of your kid.
If you have a board you’re thinking they can ride, have them stand on it with their legs spread.
If they can touch both the front bolts and the back of the skateboard, they are cleared to ride it.
If they can’t reach these points or have to go into a split position to do so, a kid-sized board will help them out.
Size Chart for Kid-Sized Boards
Check out this size chart for more specific guidance on the size of the skateboard you get for your child.
| Rider Age | Rider Height | Rider Shoe Size | Skateboard Width |
| ≤ 5 years | 3 foot 4 inches or under | 3 or smaller | 7-7.5 inches |
| 6-8 years | 3’5”-4’4” | 4-6 | 7.5-7.75 inches |
| 8 years and up | 4’5”-5’2” | 7-8 | 7.75-8.25 inches |
Where Should I Buy a Board for My Kid?
When buying a skateboard for your kid, don’t visit your local toy store.
Skateboards sold at stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon are constructed of cheap materials.
Because of this, they break easily and aren’t great for safety.
The best place to shop is your local skate shop or its online store.
They sell boards constructed with more care and quality that will last much longer.
What Kind of Skateboard Should I Get?
The best quality skateboard for your child will be composed of a maple or bamboo deck, performance bearings and soft wheels, and lightweight trucks with soft bushings.
Soft wheels are great because they are more forgiving and less likely to get stopped by rocks or cracks in the ground.
They can also make the skateboard easier to maneuver on a wide variety of riding surfaces.
Many manufacturers create boards for kids.
Shop through those with the above measurements handy. Don’t be afraid to ask skate shop employees questions about which option is best suited for your child.
How Much Should I Spend on My Kid’s Skateboard?
A decent quality skateboard for your kid that also won’t break the bank will generally cost about $80-$90.
While there are cheaper novelty options on the market, it’s worth getting them one that will keep them safe, last longer, and made of higher quality materials and components.
What Safety Gear Should I Get?
Don’t let your kid step foot on their skateboard without proper safety gear.
They should always be wearing a certified helmet.
One made for a bike or scooter will be fine as long it will protect all sides of their head should they fall.
You should also purchase pads for their wrists, knees, and elbows.
These are all areas that are prone to get hurt in the early stages of learning how to skate, as beginners often fall forward onto their knees or reach out with their hands and arms to try to catch themselves.