Ride on cars first appeared in around 1890, with the production of Daimlers, but became very popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Right when I was growing up in fact.

In those days we like to think we made the cars ourselves, but Dad probably did most of the work! And for well-off kids – well their parents probably bought them ready made from the shop. The cars were made from wood or metal and they were generally copies of the “real thing”. Since they generally used lead paint they probably weren’t safe as modern ride on cars.

Why would you buy a ride on car these days? Is there any educational benefit, for instance? Well there probably is. As children grow up, learning is going on all the time, and zipping along in a ride on car is providing both mental and physical stimulation at the same time. Ride on cars are great for eye-hand coordination, and help to prepare kids for their later driving experiences.

Have to pay attention to the safety aspects of ride on cars too. Children don’t usually think of consequences like adults (are supposed to) do, and they are only interested in the thrill of the moment.One major no-no is for grown ups to push the car along with the kid inside. They’ll invariably push too hard and fast (because they get caught up in the fun too), and that will only end in tears!

Some other safety factors to think about:

* Make sure your child uses the ride on car on a hard, level surface, away from any open water (for instance an unfenced pool)

* Look after your child’s feet, since most ride on cars have no floor. Make sure they’re wearing the right shoes with laces tied, and also make sure their clothes can’t get caught up in the moving parts.

If you’re happy to let your child overdose on TV and become a slob, that’s a shame. Why not get them their own ride on car, so they can spend the day in the fresh air getting exercise and mental stimulation?

We all know how important exercise is, and we know very well that most kids simply don’t get enough these days. Fix it now!

Most people don’t know that there are loads more ride on toys than just cars. You can find tanks and bikes, trikes and tow trucks, airplanes and bulldozers.

Do it now – get one of these great healthy toys for your child!