As a dry wind blew on Saturday morning in the Kandank Jurank Doank park and nature school in Ciputat, South Tangerang, the wheels of push-bikes could be heard rolling on the pavement while children squealed gleefully.

Some toddlers clung to their parents. Some cavorted in the playground while others played with their friends.

Participants in the Back to Nature: Pop-Up D’Jungle Race, a pushbike race held by a bike producer, pushed their bikes along, some faster than others.

Push-bikes, which do not have pedals like regular bicycles, are said to help develop children’s balance and motor skills.

Approximately 100 children between 2 and 5 years old participated in the race. They were divided into several categories by age, each year in a different race.

Windi Ayu Diningsari, 28, a representative of the event’s organizing committee, said this was the second year they had held the event.

“We decided pick a jungle theme, since it fits this venue,” she said.

“The race is intended to introduce children to outdoor activities and to educate them about nature,” she said.

“These kids are still in their golden age, that perfect period when they can learn and develop skills easily. Usually, toddlers under 4 years old are not able to ride actual two-wheeled bikes. Push-bikes help them develop a sense of balance so they can get an early start riding a bicycle without training wheels,” Windy explained.

She said that due to the dearth of open spaces, parents often opted to stroll in shopping malls as “outdoor activities”.

“Sure, walking around malls may add to your daily steps, but it’s still an indoor activity. We want to change mindsets because we still have access to nature. There are trees, grass and even animals. We shouldn’t forget to introduce children to nature.”

Windy said the event not only aimed to develop children’s appreciation for nature, it also aimed to cultivate competitiveness and motivation.

“The most important thing is their social interaction. We have 115 participants from many different cities. There are people from Jakarta, Bekasi, Tangerang, Bandung and even Jogjakarta. The turnout is honestly beyond our expectations. It has exceeded our target so we have to limit admission before we reach the maximum capacity of the venue.”

As an active mother, Windy lets her sons compete in these types of events. Her eldest joined the 5-year-old race, while her youngest joined in the 2-year-old race.

“Both my sons have high amounts of energy, so I thought, ‘Outdoor events like this are the perfect opportunities to channel their energy into something positive.’”

Getting the kids to cooperate is not always easy, Windy said. “Keanu, the little one, is a bit moody. I have to be patient at times. I even have to coax him with the sweets he likes so he will go for it.”

Tutur, 29, from Ciputat, uses the same trick with Alesha, his daughter. “Sometimes, sweets, biscuits and little treats get my daughter’s attention. It’s up to them, really, what they want to do. Kids aren’t really concerned about winning. They just want to have fun. As long as there are gifts and toys to play with, they’ll be happy.”

Tutur said the race was a good distraction from all things digital.

“Physical activities are good for them. My daughter doesn’t use gadgets that often, but she likes to watch cartoons on television. It’s better if I give her some alternatives. Races like these train her mind. She may be doing well at home, but in social situations, she has to learn to adapt,” he said.

“Fortunately, I like outdoor activities. My wife likes to get out of the house too.”

Windy said the event was more than just an outing for the little ones. Parents could relax and enjoy themselves too.

“Parents need to unwind too, after all. Work and parenting can be overwhelming,” she said.

— The writer is an intern at The Jakarta Post.

Popular

Java airports grounded by low demand, poor planning

Rethinking ocean finance

'Dialogue' must be at heart of China, Australia ties, PM tells Xi