There are loads of great electric scooters for kids out there. It’s a fun hobby, and teaches them important skills like riding safely, following rules… lots of good stuff.

Are you thinking about getting your child their first electric scooter? Or perhaps they’ve outgrown their current one and you want to upgrade? If so, we’ve come up with things to know and consider before you part with your cash.

How do kids electric scooters work?

Kids’ electric scooters are pretty straightforward. They use a rechargeable battery to power a small motor, so your child doesn’t have to push with their feet. Here's how it works:

• Throttle control: The scooter moves when your child presses the throttle on the handlebars. The more they press, the faster they go.

• Brakes: Most scooters have either hand brakes or foot brakes to help slow down or stop safely.

• Charging: After a ride, just plug the scooter in. A full charge usually lasts between 40 minutes and 2 hours.

• Maintenance: Keep an eye on the battery, brakes, and wheels to ensure everything’s working properly.

What's the difference between regular electric scooters and kids electric scooters?

Electric scooters come in all shapes and sizes, but kids' scooters are designed with younger riders in mind. Here’s how they differ from regular electric scooters:

• Size & weight: Kids’ scooters are smaller and lighter, making them easier for younger riders to control.

• Speed & power: Regular scooters can go much faster because they have more powerful motors. Kids' scooters are slower to keep things safe.

• Safety features: Kids' scooters often have extra safety features, like speed limiters, lower deck heights, and simpler controls to make them easier to ride.

• Fun designs: Bright colours, fun accessories, and cool features like LED lights make kids' scooters extra exciting for young riders.

So, when choosing the right scooter, be sure to pick one that’s made for your child’s size and safety.

5 things to think about if you’re buying an electric scooter for a child

When you’re starting your search for your child’s next electric scooter, bear these five questions in mind. They’ll help you make the right choice…

1. How fast can the scooter go?

Some electric scooters can go fast. Really fast. Models with big motors can easily speed along at 15mph, and even 20mph isn’t unheard of. If your child is 8 years or younger, or not an experienced electric scooter whizz-kid, these top speeds are way too fast.

For smaller kids a top speed of 5mph is absolutely fine. That’s fast enough to give them a feeling that they’re speeding along, and it’s slow enough for them to stop safely when they need to. When they build up their confidence and decide that speeding around on an electric scooter is the life for them, 10mph is a perfectly acceptable top speed.

2. How much weight can the scooter carry?

Next up, you’ll need to make sure the electric scooter can carry the weight of your child safely. So check that the manufacturer’s maximum weight recommendation matches up.

You should even do a bit of crystal-ball gazing, and pick a scooter your child won’t be too big for when they’re two or three years older.

If anyone rides an electric scooter they’re too heavy for, it really affects its performance. It probably won’t get snapped or broken, but it definitely won’t go as fast or as far.

3. What age is the scooter suitable for?

The recommended minimum age for riding an electric scooter is 8 years old. If your child is under 8 years of age, you should think carefully about whether they’re ready to handle a powered scooter. It’s a good idea to see how well they can ride a manual scooter before you decide.

You should easily be able to find the manufacturer’s recommended age range for any electric scooter you’re interested in. So, just like the weight recommendation above, make sure it matches up to your child’s age.

And remember, electric scooters aren’t allowed on public roads, pavements or cycle-paths. In fact, they that it can only be used on private land with the owner’s consent – so taking it on the school run is a no-no!

4. What kind of brakes are on the electric scooter?

The brake for your electric scooter will be on the front or rear wheel – or on both wheels. All options are absolutely fine, but rear brakes are best for younger kids as they give a more gradual and controlled stop. Electric scooters with front bakes stop a little more abruptly, and this can sometimes take inexperienced riders by surprise the first few times it happens. Once they get used to it, they’ll be fine.

5. How powerful is the motor?

The motor of an electric scooter powers the wheels, and the more powerful motors help the scooter go faster and carry more weight. The drawback is that powerful motors make the scooter heavier, which isn’t great for younger kids. And because electric scooters with powerful motors can go at faster speeds, they’re more suited for the teenagers in your family.

FAQs

Are kids' electric scooters legal in the UK?

It’s perfectly legal to buy and ride an electric scooter on private property in the UK. But riding one on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes? That’s a no-go.

Each local council might have slightly different takes, so it’s worth checking their rules. And while there’s talk of changing the laws in the future, nothing’s official just yet. For now, keep the scooting fun where it’s safe and allowed!

Where can kids ride electric scooters?

The safest places for kids to ride their electric scooters? Private driveways, large gardens, quiet private roads, or open areas where permission’s been granted. Some parks may allow it too — just check ahead with your local council.

Stay away from public roads, pavements, and busy places — it’s not only risky, it’s also against the law. Stick to safe, open areas, and make it a supervised adventure, especially for little riders just starting out.

Are kids' electric scooters allowed on cycle lanes or paths?

Tempting as it is, kids’ electric scooters aren’t allowed in cycle lanes or on shared-use paths in most of the UK. They’re classed as motorised vehicles — and that means they’re only legal on private property.

Even in areas where rental scooters are being trialled, those rules don’t apply to privately owned ones. Stick to private spaces, ride smart, and always be considerate if you’re near others in shared outdoor areas.

How long does it take to charge a kids’ electric scooter?

Charging time depends on the scooter, but most kids’ models take about 3 to 6 hours to fully charge — great for an overnight plug-in or a break between play sessions.

Once fully juiced, your child can typically scoot around for 5 to 15 miles, depending on the terrain, rider’s weight, and scooter model. Want to keep that battery healthy? Don’t overcharge, unplug when full, and store the scooter somewhere cool and dry when not in use.

Are kids’ electric scooters safe?

They absolutely can be — with the right gear and guidance! Most kids’ scooters come with helpful safety features like speed limiters, sturdy brakes, grippy footrests, and strong frames made to handle a few knocks.

And here are some even better safety features - parental supervision and good habits! Make sure your child always wears a helmet (non-negotiable!), plus knee and elbow pads. And of course, choose a scooter that fits their age, size, and skill level — a perfect match makes all the difference.

A few final words…

Electric scooters are motorised vehicles, not toys. So your child needs to be responsible and always be thinking about safety first.

Make sure they’ve got the correct safety gear, and they’re always wearing a helmet. Supervise them while they learn how to ride their electric scooter, and make them aware of where they can (and can’t) ride it. Then they should be ready to scoot off safely!

Feeling like you could use some more advice? Feel free to chat with our experts on ShopLive!