Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Long Beach, CA

Was there a new set of wheels under the tree this year? Riding a tricycle, bike, or scooter can help preschoolers develop large motor skills and get a little exercise at the same time. My daughter couldn't wait to try out the new big-girl bike Santa brought, so Friday we put it in the trunk and headed off to ride the trails.

Here are some paths around Long Beach where kids can take the new wheels for a spin:

At El Dorado Park, kids can ride on a long, paved path shaded by evergreens. The vehicle entry fee is $5.00 on weekdays, and $7.00 on weekends.

Cerritos Regional Park is a sunny, wide-open space where kids can scoot down paved paths, past a duck pond and fountain. If they still need to burn off some energy after the ride, head to the playgrounds on either side of the park. Parking is free.

To ride the bike trails at Heartwell Park, enter and park on Carson between Bellflower and Woodruff. The trail runs along the soccer fields.

At the waterfront bike path near Shoreline Village, scenery includes sailboats and cranes, not to mention the Queen Mary. Parking at the Shoreline Village lot is $1.00 for two hours, when you make a purchase at one of the shops.

If you want to venture a little further out, drive down to Bolsa Chica State Beach, between Sunset Beach and Huntington Beach. Park at the lot for $10.00, then enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean as you ride along the waterfront.