Recommended Training Scooter for all kids.
At Round 7, we do not recommend that children on the autism spectrum begin with scooters that use a rear foot brake or small wheels. Once a child has developed basic balance and riding skills on a bicycle, we recommend purchasing an outdoor scooter with large wheels and bicycle-style handlebar hand brakes.
A scooter with hand brakes serves as an excellent supplement to bike training by allowing the rider to practice and master braking techniques that transfer directly between both platforms—bike riding and scootering. This cross-training helps develop better control, confidence, and braking habits in real-world riding situations.
We also recommend choosing a scooter with the largest deck (foot platform) possible. A wider deck provides greater stability and allows riders to transfer propulsion, balance, and foot placement skills to other platforms, particularly skateboarding.
Parents who have enough room in their vehicle should consider keeping a scooter with them whenever possible. This allows the rider to continue practicing handlebar control, braking control, balance, and coordination during trips to parks, trails, and other outdoor locations.
Recommended Scooter Features
For the best learning experience, we recommend scooters with the following features:
- Large pneumatic (air-filled) tires for both outdoor and indoor terrain.
- Bicycle-style handlebars with a comfortable riding position.
- Hand-operated brake system, preferably with both front and rear brakes.
- A wide, stable deck for improved balance and foot placement.
- A low deck height to make pushing and stopping easier for beginner riders.
These features allow autistic riders to practice skills that directly reinforce bicycle riding while providing a smooth, predictable, and confidence-building experience.
Speed Management
Speed Management is an integrated Round 7 training program in which riders use both the bicycle and scooter to learn how to safely regulate speed on different types of terrain. Rather than teaching braking as an isolated skill, riders develop this ability naturally through repeated exposure to hills, slopes, turns, and varying trail conditions.
Children who live in flat coastal communities may rarely need to use their brakes because of the gentle terrain. In contrast, riders living near mountainous areas, such as the Shenandoah region, will use braking much more frequently when navigating downhill sections and rolling terrain. As riders gain experience, speed management becomes an instinctive skill that improves safety and confidence on both bikes and scooters.
Below is our list of recommended scooter models.
| Type | Brand / Model | Tested by Round 7 | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor | RazorRazor Flashback Kick Scooter | Yes – Riders age 7 -12 years old | $149.99 | Budget-friendly. Meets board and wheels requirements, Excellent board design to allow the rider to stand on skateboard stand. |
| Outdoor | JOYSTAR Kick Scooter | No -but meet our criteria for younger riders age 5-8 years old | $105.00 | Meets board and wheels requirements, |