Hobby horses for ages 2 and up: What to look for when buying

A hobby horse is one of the oldest toys in existence, yet it remains a favorite for many children. It requires no batteries and no instructions, just space to ride. Read on to find out what you should look for when buying a hobby horse for children aged 2 and up.

At what age is a hobby horse suitable?

Most hobby horses are designed for children aged 2 and up. At this age, children are walking confidently, love to run, and are starting to engage in their first role-playing games. The hobby horse then becomes a horse, a unicorn, or a stagecoach, depending on their mood for the day.

The manufacturer's age recommendation is important. It relates to length, weight, and small parts. The bieco hobby horse, for example, is tested for children from 24 months old.

What to look for when buying

1. The right length

A hobby horse must be long enough for your child to hold between their legs without tripping over it. The bieco hobby horse measures 100 × 24 × 27 cm. This makes it a great fit for toddlers and still long enough for preschoolers.

2. With or without wheels?

Classic hobby horses drag the end of the stick across the floor. This is noisy and causes scratches. A hobby horse with wheels rolls more quietly and protects parquet and tile floors. The bieco hobby horse features two wheels at the end of the wooden stick.

3. Soft head

Small children fall down, and the hobby horse falls with them. A head made of soft fabric is more pleasant than a hard wooden head. It is also perfect for cuddling when the horse joins your child in their room at night.

4. Handles for holding on

Side handles on the head help small hands guide the horse safely. This keeps the stick straight and gives the child better control.

5. Tested safety

Look for the European toy standard EN 71. The bieco hobby horse is tested according to EN 71-1, -2, and -3, with the Brownie version additionally tested to EN 71-9. According to the manufacturer, the fabrics have been tested for harmful substances.

Wood, fabric, or plush?

For hobby horses, many manufacturers combine a wooden stick with a fabric head. The wooden stick is sturdy and durable, while the fabric head is light and soft. In the bieco hobby horse, the head is made of polyester and the stick of wood.

Horse or unicorn?

That is usually up to your child. bieco offers three versions: the horses Brownie and Ginger, and the unicorn Magic. If siblings have to share a horse, sometimes a second one is worth it—it means fewer arguments and more races.

Play ideas for the hobby horse

• Riding course: Pillows as obstacles, a rope as a finish line. Indoors or outdoors.
• Pony farm: The horse is fed, groomed, and taken to the "stable" under the table.
• Stagecoach: Your child delivers letters and packages to all family members.
• Hobby horsing for little ones: Jumping over a low bar. For two-year-olds, a rope on the floor is sufficient.

Care and safety

Clean the head with a damp cloth. Do not submerge in water; let it air dry. Check from time to time that screws and wooden parts are secure. According to the manufacturer, the hobby horse should only be used under adult supervision. It should not be used outdoors on stairs or near roads.

You can find more play ideas for indoors and outdoors under toys and outdoor toys, and more from bieco under bieco.

Frequently asked questions

At what age is a hobby horse suitable?

Most models are designed for ages 2 and up. The bieco hobby horse is tested for children aged 24 months and older.

How long should a hobby horse be?

Long enough that your child can hold it between their legs without tripping. The bieco hobby horse is 100 cm long and fits both toddlers and preschoolers.

What are the benefits of wheels on a hobby horse?

The end of the stick does not drag across the floor. This is quieter and protects parquet and tile floors.

How do I clean a hobby horse?

Wipe with a damp cloth, do not submerge in water, and let it air dry.

Is a hobby horse a good gift for a 2nd birthday?

Yes. It encourages physical activity and role-play, and it grows with the child into their preschool years.