How to teach a child to ride a bike
Let me start out by saying that I was not taught this way, but I wish I was. I was taught in a community college parking lot by my parents, and while there are many things I thank them for -- teaching me to ride was certainly one of the most memorable.
At the same time, the way I learned was more of a crash course.= The best way to teach a child to ride a bike, is to take off their pedals. Have them "walk it" around and after a couple weeks they will have gained the necessary balance. After all the first bicycles didn't have pedals. Once they are ready put their pedals back on.
If you really love your child, get them a helmet -- how is that for guilt? If that doesn't work, consider the fact it is illegal in most places for them not to have a helmet and you will pay the fine!