Kids Riding for
Positive Mental Health
Unstructured, play-based bike sessions that boost confidence, resilience and joy –
for kids of all abilities.
Delivered by Addventageous | Parramatta Bike Hub in collaboration with the BE UNSTOPPABLE FOUNDATION funded by Parramatta ClubGrants. Our kids’ program blends fun on wheels with simple wellbeing tools to help children feel calmer, braver and more connected.
What is Kids Riding for Positive Mental Health?
Kids Riding for Positive Mental Health is a School Holiday Program held at Parramatta Bike Hub – Wilson Park River Walk, where children can explore movement, mindset and nature through bikes.
Instead of rigid lessons, we create a play-based, unstructured space where kids can:
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move their bodies in a way that feels safe and fun
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build riding skills at their own pace
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practice simple mental health strategies
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connect with others in a supportive, welcoming environment
Whether your child is just learning to ride or already confident on two wheels, they’ll be encouraged to join in, have fun and experience the wellbeing benefits of moving outdoors.
For Every Stage of Learning – Walk, Scoot, Push, Ride
We welcome all ability levels and celebrate progress at every stage. Children can choose how they move and shift between modes as their confidence grows.
1️⃣ Walk the Bike
(Seated Walk)
Children sit on the saddle with both feet on the ground, moving in a gentle walking motion. This builds confidence, balance and steering control in a safe, grounded way.
2️⃣ Scooting
Still seated, kids use longer push strokes with their feet to move forward. Scooting helps them learn to control speed, steer and feel comfortable with a little more momentum.
3️⃣ Power Push
(Glide Push)
Children use a strong push from one foot, then glide. As their balance improves, the glides get longer and feet come off the ground. This is the key step before independent riding.
4️⃣ Pedal Riding
Once ready, kids practice starting, stopping and riding at slow speeds, learning how to ride in a group, navigate obstacles and share the space safely.
✨ There’s no pressure to “keep up” – we meet every child where they’re at.
What Happens in a Session?
Each session runs for around 90 minutes and follows a gentle rhythm:
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1. Arrival & Feelings Check-In
Kids sign in, meet the instructors and share how they’re feeling using simple colour or emoji check-ins. -
2. Free-Movement Warm-Up
Children choose their mode: walk, scoot, power push or ride. This helps them settle in, warm up and feel where their body is at that day. -
3. Play-Based Skill Stations
Unstructured stations are set up so kids can move between:-
seated walking circuits
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scooting and weaving
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power push & glide zones
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slow-riding loops and mini obstacle courses
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4. Nature-Based Mini Adventure
A short, safe loop on the shared path or in the park where we notice our surroundings – the river, trees, birds, wind – and practise calm, mindful riding. -
5. Reflection Circle
We finish with a quick group chat:-
What felt fun?
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What felt easier this time?
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Who helped you today?
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These reflections tie movement to mental health, gratitude and self-awareness in a kid-friendly way.
Building Positive Mental Health on Two Wheels
The program is grounded in three simple pillars that run through all Addventageous | Parramatta Bike Hub programs:
Respect for Equipment
Learning to care for bikes and helmets – simple safety checks, gentle handling, sharing resources.
Respect for the Environment
Noticing the river, trees and wildlife, keeping paths clear, and understanding that we’re part of the place we ride in.
Respect for Each Other
Taking turns, using kind words, giving space, encouraging nervous riders and celebrating each other’s wins.
Through these pillars, kids learn:
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confidence and self-belief
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emotional regulation and calm
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social skills and teamwork
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resilience and problem-solving
All while having fun outside.
Who Is This Program For?
This program is ideal for:
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Children aged 5–14 years
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Kids who are learning to ride or building confidence
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Confident riders who enjoy group rides and playful challenges
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Children who benefit from gentle, structured support for confidence and wellbeing
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Families who want screen-free, outdoor, active school holiday experiences
We welcome children from diverse backgrounds and abilities. If you’re unsure whether this program is right for your child, please contact us – we’re happy to chat.
Program Details
FREE
Location
Parramatta Bike Hub
Wilson Park River Walk, Parramatta
Session Length
Four 1-hour sessions
Dates & Times
👉 Starting first week January 2026, 9.30am -10.30.am Taking expression of interest for week day /end
Age Group
5–14years (flexible by discussion)
Bikes & Gear
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You can bring your own bike and helmet
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Or borrow from our Community Bike Library (sizes for kids and adults)
Ratios & Safety
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Small group sizes
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Qualified, experienced bike educators and support staff
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Clear safety zones and progressive skill areas
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Child-safe and risk-managed program aligned with outdoor activity good practice guidelines
Cost FREE!
👉 Funded by BE UNSTOPPABLE FOUNDATION and Parramatta ClubGrant
If your child has additional needs, anxiety or support requirements, please let us know in advance so we can work with you to create a positive experience.
What to Bring
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Comfortable clothing suitable for active play
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Enclosed shoes (no sandals or thongs)
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Water bottle
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Hat & sunscreen (applied before arrival)
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Snack (if appropriate for session time)
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Any personal medication (e.g. asthma puffers)
If bringing your own bike:
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Bike in safe working condition
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Correctly sized helmet (we can assist with fit on arrival)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. My child can’t ride a bike yet – is this still suitable?
Absolutely. The program is designed to support kids from seated walking on the bike all the way through to independent riding. There is no pressure to rush their progress.
Q2. What if my child feels nervous or anxious?
We offer a gentle start with seated walking and scooting, plus simple emotional check-ins. Kids can choose how they participate and we’ll support them to feel safe.
Q3. Do you provide bikes and helmets?
Yes. We have a range of bikes and helmets available through the Community Bike Library. You are also welcome to bring your own equipment.
Q4. Are parents required to stay?
Yes. Parents are encouraged to join in the fun!
Q5. What happens if it’s raining or very hot?
We monitor weather closely using our extreme weather guidelines. If we need to cancel or modify a session, we will contact you with updated arrangements or an alternative date.
