The world of pedal car or soapbox racing is the perfect way to introduce your child to racing in an age-appropriate and relatively safe manner. Pedal cars are often recommended for the youngest racers, while soapbox races take place at higher speeds, and are not recommended for young toddlers, but they are perfect for children just a few years older.

When racing these pedal style cars, you need not worry about your child racing down a track at breakneck speeds in a car they can’t control. Soapbox cars coast down the track, while pedal cars can only go as fast as your child’s feet can pedal them. Though modern, well-constructed cars may hit top speeds of 30 miles per hour when going downhill, many cars stay at speeds much lower than this.

The youngest children, or those under about 5 years old, can get involved in the exciting world of racing in pedal cars. Tracks for these cars are generally constructed to be much flatter than those used by soapbox cars, which rely on gravity for propulsion. On this level track, your young child will learn how to steer the car, how to follow the instructions of a race official, and other important details that will be invaluable later on, whether they move up the levels of racing into actual cars with engines or end up leaving the racing world after their pedaling days are over.

If you and your child decide to become involved in this exciting pastime, your first step is to learn the location of your local competitions and the rules for getting involved. Many competitions outline specifications for the car itself, in addition to the rider, the safety equipment worn, and other considerations. Vintage-styled pedal vehicles, with shiny paint and racing stripes, remain a perennial favorite regardless of the underlying design requirements for the race. As the parent, it is your responsibility to help your child follow these rules. If you fail to follow them, your child may receive the upsetting news that they have been disqualified. Some cars must be built by the rider (and supervised by the parents, of course), while other competitions do allow store-bought cars.

When getting involved in racing, try not to be too competitive. Let these young children have fun, and don’t push them to continue on in the racing world as they grow older (unless they want to, of course!). Pedal car racing is a fun adventure whether they continue on to racing powered cars or not. It is also a valuable lesson in sportsmanship that is best taught to your children while they are as young as possible.

The pedal car racing world is focused mainly on local or regional races which can draw dozens or even hundreds of youngsters. The frequency of these races depends on the interest in pedal toy racing in your area. Some are held as children’s activities at larger racing shows or competitions.

Although pedal toy racing might seem like an American pastime, in reality there are racing groups for kids all over the world. Though there are more competitions in some areas than others, no matter where you are in the world you can get your kids involved in regional races. Your children will love their new car, with its shiny racing stripes and aerodynamic styling, both on the race course and off.

Author Bio: Classic Pedal Cars has a full range of metal pedal cars for the best present a child could wish for! Also check for Bright Red Fire Engine Pedal Cars

Category: Automotive
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