Daily Halacha: Shabbat and Kids: Bicycles, Scooters and Halacha

Is it permitted to allow a minor to perform an action that is disputed among authorities?

When there’s a disagreement among halachic (Jewish legal) authorities about a certain action even if the main ruling follows those who forbid it, it’s still allowed to be lenient when it comes to a child doing that action. The father or parent does not need to protest or stop them.

If the prohibition is only rabbinic (meaning it's not from the Torah but from the Sages), then it’s even permitted for an adult to tell a child to do the action, even from the start.

Is it permitted to ride a bicycle on Shabbat?

Riding a bicycle on Shabbat is not allowed. It is considered a weekday-type activity, which doesn’t fit the spirit or honor of Shabbat. The same goes for things like skates and scooters, which are also viewed as activities that take away from the peaceful and special feeling of the day.

However, when it comes to very young children who don’t yet understand, one may be lenient and allow them to ride indoors.
(Based on Chazon Ovadia)

Ach Tov VaChesed – Daily Halacha