A mother asks at which age she can expect her child to pedal and steer a tricycle. This gross motor milestone requires coordinated reciprocal pedalling and steering. At what age is riding a tricycle normally achieved?
- A 18 months
- B 3 years ✓
- C 2 years
- D 5 years
Correct answer: B. 3 years
Explanation
Riding a tricycle is achieved at about 3 years, reflecting maturation of balance, bilateral leg coordination and steering. At 2 years the child runs and kicks a ball but pedals poorly, and at 18 months walking is just becoming steady. Riding a two-wheeled bicycle is the corresponding milestone at about 5 years. This progression makes the tricycle a standard anchor point in gross motor assessment at the 3-year visit.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
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