Learn How to Use Heelys or Wheeled Trainers

by Lucy Yates on November 19, 2024

Helping A Child Learn to Use Heelys or Wheeled Trainers: A Parent’s Guide

Heelys, also known as wheeled trainers, are a fun and exciting way for kids to combine walking and skating.

If your child has been asking for a pair or has just received them, you might wonder how to help them learn to use these popular, rolling shoes safely and confidently. Here's a step-by-step guide for parents and carers to support a child in mastering Heelys while keeping things safe and fun.

 

Step 1: Start with the Basics

Girls pink Heely trainers

Before your child takes their first roll, it's essential to make sure they are properly equipped.

Safety First:
- Equip your child with safety gear, including a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. This helps protect them from bumps and scrapes during the learning process.
- Choose a smooth, flat surface free of obstacles for their first attempts, such as a driveway, a quiet pavement, or a park path.

Check the Fit:
- Ensure the Heelys fit snugly but comfortably. Shoes that are too loose can make balancing harder.
- Confirm that the wheels are securely attached to the shoe for safety.

 

Step 2: Practice the Stance

Balancing is key when learning to use Heelys. Here’s how your child can start:

young boy wearing heely shoes

Learn to Stand:
- Ask your child to stand on their Heelys with one foot in front of the other, as though they’re about to walk.
- Encourage them to keep their knees slightly bent to maintain balance.

Weight Distribution:
- Teach them to shift their weight onto their back foot, which will rest on the wheel. Their front foot acts as a stabiliser.

 

Step 3: Start Rolling

Now that they can stand confidently, it’s time to roll:

Push Off Gently:
- Show them how to push off with their back foot to start rolling, keeping their weight on the wheel.
- The front foot should stay flat for balance until they get used to the movement.

Use a Support:
- Hold their hand or let them steady themselves on a wall or railing for the first few tries.
- Gradually encourage them to roll short distances independently.

 

Step 4: Stopping Safely 

young girl using heelys in urban setting

Toe Stops:
- Teach your child to gently tilt their back foot forward, allowing the heel to lift and the sole of the shoe to make contact with the ground. This acts as a brake.
- Practice stopping multiple times so they feel confident and in control.
- Learning to stop is just as important as rolling.

 

Step 5: Build Confidence Gradually: 

- Start with short sessions to prevent fatigue and frustration.
- Every child learns at their own pace, so patience is key.
- Celebrate small victories, whether it’s a smooth roll or a successful stop.
 
Troubleshooting Tips

Wobbles or Falls: Reassure your child that it’s okay to fall. Make sure they wear their protective gear, and encourage them to get up and try again.
Fear of Rolling: Some kids feel nervous at first. Practice just standing and balancing on the wheels until they feel more confident.
Indoor Practice: On rainy days, they can practice balance and stance indoors on carpeted floors without the wheels rolling.

 

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Final Thoughts


Heelys can provide hours of active fun while helping your child develop balance and coordination. By taking the time to guide them through the learning process and emphasising safety, you’re setting them up for success.

Ready to get started? Remember, every wobbly start leads to smooth gliding with a little practice and patience. Before you know it, your child will be zipping around with confidence - and a big smile! 😊



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