Inclusive Cycling: Celebrating Children’s Mental Health Week 2025

To mark Children’s Mental Health Week, our partner Tomcat has shared some of the incredible benefits of cycling, especially for children with learning and sensory impairments.

Cycling is a transformative activity that fosters confidence, independence and a sense of achievement. Yet for many, it can feel like an unattainable goal due to physical or sensory challenges.

In this post below, Tomcat explores the powerful connection between cycling, mental well-being and skill development, and how they’re helping children with additional needs to thrive.

Empowering cycling confidence

Cycling is more than a means of transport; it’s a life skill that unlocks freedom, independence and a profound sense of achievement. For those with learning or sensory impairments, however, accessing the joy of cycling can be a daunting challenge. That’s where Tomcat trikes comes into play, bridging gaps and enabling everyone to participate in the life-changing benefits of cycling.

The importance of learning to cycle

Bikeability’s mission to provide cycling proficiency training for all ages is rooted in more than just teaching a skill. It’s about fostering confidence, promoting physical health and encouraging social interaction. These benefits are amplified for individuals with learning or sensory impairments, where cycling can offer a unique sense of control and empowerment in an often-challenging world.

But learning to ride isn’t always a straightforward process. Barriers such as balance issues, motor skill challenges or lack of confidence can stand in the way.

Inclusive cycling with Tomcat

Tomcat has spent over 25 years perfecting trikes that meet the unique needs of riders with disabilities. Designed with adaptability and ease of use in mind, Tomcat trikes are tailored to suit individuals of all ages and abilities. Whether it’s our foot-propelled trikes for those with strength in their legs or hand-propelled models for those requiring upper-body focus, our engineering ensures that every rider feels secure, supported, and most importantly, included.

For example, our innovative Carer Control system allows a parent, carer or trainer to take control when needed, offering peace of mind while the rider builds confidence. This adaptability aligns perfectly with Bikeability’s inclusive training ethos, providing the tools and opportunities to learn, thrive and enjoy cycling safely.

The link between exercise and skill development

Cycling is a holistic activity that combines physical, mental and emotional benefits. Pedalling strengthens muscles, improves coordination and provides aerobic exercise – all while enhancing concentration and focus. For those with learning or sensory impairments, this physical activity is also a powerful tool for developing motor skills, self-discipline and resilience.

At Tomcat, we’ve seen first-hand how individuals flourish when given the chance to learn and cycle at their own pace. The act of pedalling a trike opens the door to a world of possibility, giving riders a sense of achievement and pride in mastering a skill that previously seemed out of reach.

Stories that inspire

One shining example of the transformative power of inclusive cycling is Josh, a young boy from Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. Josh has a range of mobility and sensory impairments that made using a traditional bike impossible. Thanks to the efforts of his local community, funds were raised to provide him with a Tomcat trike tailored to his specific needs.

With the trike, Josh was able to join a Bikeability training session at school, where he learned not just how to cycle but also how to navigate safely in his environment. The training, combined with the stability and adaptability of his Tomcat trike, gave Josh the freedom to cycle alongside his peers.

Seeing Josh smile as he pedalled independently for the first time was a powerful reminder of the impact that inclusive cycling can have. It’s not just about the physical act of riding – it’s about confidence, connection and a sense of belonging.

Building inclusive communities through cycling

Tomcat and Bikeability share a common vision: to make cycling accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. By working together, we can ensure that individuals with learning or sensory impairments are not only included but empowered to take an active role in their communities through cycling.

Every turn of the pedal represents a step forward – not just in learning a skill but in fostering independence, improving physical health and building confidence. With Tomcat’s bespoke trikes and Bikeability’s inclusive training programs, we are proud to help create a world where everyone can experience the joy and freedom of cycling.

For more information about Tomcat and trikes for children, you can visit their website here. To learn more about inclusive cycling, you can find more information here.