Age alone doesn’t tell you which electric scooter your child needs. A confident 9-year-old who’s been riding kick scooters since age 5 needs something completely different than a cautious 9-year-old getting their first scooter. This guide segments by both age and skill level, which matters more than most parents realize when they’re looking at a wall of scooters that all claim to be “for ages 8 and up.”
We cover ages 5 through 14, electric models only, from absolute beginners through experienced riders who need real range and speed. You’ll get a skill level breakdown first, then age-by-age recommendations with specific product picks, and a speed and safety section that explains what’s actually appropriate at each stage. And the battery section addresses what “40 minutes of continuous use” really means when your kid is riding at full speed up a slight incline.
By the end, you’ll know which scooter matches where your child is today. Not where they might be in six months.
Summary of Our Top Picks
| Scooter | Age Range | Skill Level | Top Speed | Real-World Range | Brake Type | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gotrax GKS | 5-7 | Absolute beginner | 7.5 mph | 3-3.5 miles | Foot brake | Best first electric scooter; genuinely age-appropriate speed |
| Razor E100 | 6-9 | Confident beginner | 10 mph | 30-35 min | Foot brake | Solid first upgrade; slightly fast for true beginners |
| Razor E200 | 8-12 | Confident beginner to intermediate | 12 mph | 35-40 min | Hand brake | Best overall for this age bracket; proper step-up without intimidating speeds |
| Segway Ninebot E10 | 8-11 | Confident beginner | 10 mph | 4-5 miles | Electronic + mechanical | Best premium pick; app speed limiter genuinely useful for cautious parents |
| Hiboy S2 Lite | 9-14 | Intermediate | 13 mph | 7-8 miles | Dual brake (electronic front + disc rear) | Best for intermediate riders; real range, proper brakes |
| Razor E300 | 12-17 | Intermediate to experienced | 15 mph | 35-40 min | Hand brake | Best step-up for teens; large deck, 15 mph is genuinely fast |
Table note: Real-world range reflects typical use (moderate speed, 60-80 lb rider, mixed terrain). Manufacturer claims often exceed these figures under ideal conditions.
What Skill Level Does Your Child Need?
Skill level matters more than age when you’re picking an electric scooter. A 10-year-old who’s never been on anything with wheels needs a completely different scooter than a 10-year-old who’s been riding kick scooters for years. Here’s how to think about the four skill tiers and what each one means for scooter choice.
Absolute Beginner
This is a child who’s never ridden electric, and might still be building balance confidence on a kick scooter. They need maximum speed no higher than 8 mph, a foot brake or electronic brake (hand brakes require more grip strength than most beginners have), and ideally a parent remote if one’s available at this price point. Deck geometry should be stable. No aggressive lean is required for steering.
The Gotrax GKS and Razor E100 are the only models in this guide that fit this tier, and the Gotrax is the safer starting point for most kids under 7. The E100 pushes 10 mph, which is manageable for a confident 7-year-old but too fast for a true beginner who’s 5 or 6.
Confident Beginner
A child who’s comfortable on a kick scooter and ready for their first electric upgrade. They understand braking distance. They can balance while looking ahead instead of staring at the deck. They need speeds up to 10-12 mph, a reliable hand brake (most kids by age 7-8 have sufficient hand strength), and deck geometry that doesn’t punish minor weight shifts.
Razor E100, Razor E200, and Segway Ninebot E10 all work here. The E200 is the best overall pick at this level because it gives them room to grow without overwhelming them on day one.
Intermediate
This is a child who’s been riding an electric scooter for a while. They’re confident cornering at speed, they understand how to brake progressively instead of grabbing hard at the last second, and they’re ready for longer neighborhood rides. They need 12-15 mph, a proper hand brake or dual brake system, and enough range that they’re not constantly running out of battery mid-ride.
Razor E300 and Hiboy S2 Lite fit this tier. The Hiboy is the better choice if range matters. The E300 is the better choice if they’re at the upper end of the age range and need the larger deck and weight capacity.
Experienced
A confident rider who wants more range and performance. This tier starts overlapping with adult commuter scooters, so you need to verify that the model you’re looking at is actually age-appropriate and complies with local regulations. Most experienced young riders are 13-15+. They need 15+ mph capability, dual brakes, and at least 10 miles of real-world range if they’re using this for actual transportation and not just recreation.
The Razor E300 sits at the entry point of this tier. Most other models that fit the performance profile are technically adult scooters. If your teen is in this category, start with the E300 and verify local laws on electric scooters before going faster.
Best Electric Scooters for Kids Ages 5-7
What Matters Most at Ages 5-7
Speed is the number one concern. Maximum speed should not exceed 8 mph for this age range, and even that’s fast for a true beginner who’s 5. Most 5-7 year olds don’t yet have the hand strength for reliable hand braking, which means you need either a foot brake or an electronic brake. The scooter should be lightweight enough that the child can actually pick it up, and the deck needs to be proportionate to small feet. A child this age standing on an adult-sized deck looks like they’re balancing on a surfboard.
Weight capacity matters less here than at older ages. Most models rated for 44-120 lbs work fine. What you’re really checking is minimum rider weight, because some electric scooters require a certain amount of weight on the deck to activate the motor properly.
Top Picks for Ages 5-7
Gotrax GKS Electric Scooter
Key specs: 7.5 mph maximum speed | 4-mile advertised range | 44-154 lb weight capacity | Foot brake | 33 lbs minimum rider weight | Height-adjustable handlebar (26-30 inches)
This is the best first electric scooter for this age range, and it’s one of the few models that gets the speed right for true beginners. The 7.5 mph max is slow enough that most parents feel comfortable, and fast enough that kids don’t feel like they’re crawling. Real-world range is closer to 3-3.5 miles under normal riding conditions. The foot brake is simple and intuitive for kids who aren’t ready for hand braking yet.
The deck is sized appropriately for smaller feet. A 5-year-old doesn’t look awkward on this. The minimum 33 lb rider weight means very small 5-year-olds might not activate the motor consistently, but most kids hit that threshold by their 5th birthday.
Assembly is minimal. Handlebar attachment and you’re done. Build quality is adequate for the price point. This isn’t a premium scooter, but it’s durable enough to last through a year or two of regular use before the child outgrows it.
Verdict: The safest starting point for ages 5-7. If your child has never ridden an electric and you want to start conservatively, this is the pick.
Razor E100
Key specs: 10 mph maximum speed | 40 minutes continuous use | 120 lb weight capacity | Kick-start motor | Foot-operated rear brake | Steel frame and fork
The Razor E100 has been around for years, and it’s still one of the most common first electric scooters. The 10 mph top speed is faster than the Gotrax, which makes this a better choice for confident 7-year-olds but a riskier choice for true beginners who are 5 or 6. Real-world ride time is 30-35 minutes at moderate speed with a 60 lb rider.
The kick-start motor is a safety feature that prevents accidental throttle activation when the scooter is stationary. The child has to kick to 3 mph before the motor engages, which means they can’t accidentally launch themselves from a standstill. The foot brake is rear-mounted and works reliably on pavement.
Weight capacity is 120 lbs, which gives this scooter a longer useful lifespan than the Gotrax. A child who starts riding this at 6 or 7 can keep using it until they’re 9 or 10, assuming they don’t outgrow the speed first.
Verdict: Fine for confident 7-year-olds. Slightly fast for true beginners. If your child has been riding a kick scooter confidently for a year or more, the E100 is a reasonable first electric. If they’re just learning to balance, start with the Gotrax.
Safety Note for Ages 5-7
Helmet required on every ride. This is non-negotiable. Look for helmets certified to ASTM F1492 (skateboard and scooter standard) or CPSC bicycle helmet standard. Wrist guards and knee pads are strongly recommended. Most scooter falls at this age are hands-first, and wrist injuries are the most common outcome.
The maximum recommended riding environment is flat pavement, driveways, and paved bike paths. No roads. No hills. Supervision is required on every ride until the child demonstrates consistent braking and obstacle awareness.
Want more details on choosing the right scooter for this specific age? Read our full guide on the best electric scooter for a 6-year-old.
Best Electric Scooters for Kids Ages 8-11
What Changes at Age 8
Hand brake strength becomes sufficient for most riders by age 8. This opens up scooters with hand-operated rear brakes, which stop more reliably than foot brakes at speeds above 10 mph. The appropriate top speed range expands to 10-12 mph for confident riders in this bracket.
Range starts mattering more because kids this age want longer neighborhood rides. A scooter that runs out of battery after 20 minutes becomes frustrating fast. Real-world range of 35-40 minutes is the minimum you want for this age group if they’re riding regularly.
Weight capacity needs to accommodate growth. A scooter rated for 154+ lbs gives you two to three years of use before the child outgrows it.
Top Picks for Ages 8-11
Razor E200
Key specs: 12 mph maximum speed | 40 minutes continuous use | 154 lb weight capacity | Hand-operated rear brake | High-torque chain-driven motor | 8-inch pneumatic front tire
This is the best overall pick for ages 8-11. The 12 mph top speed is a meaningful step up from the E100 without jumping into intimidating territory. Real-world ride time is 35-40 minutes with a 70-80 lb rider at moderate speed. The hand brake provides reliable stopping power, and most 8-year-olds have enough grip strength to use it effectively.
The 8-inch pneumatic front tire smooths out rough pavement better than the smaller solid tires on cheaper scooters. The high-torque motor handles gentle inclines without bogging down noticeably. The weight capacity of 154 lbs means this scooter works for kids from about 60 lbs up through early teens.
The chain-driven motor is louder than a belt drive, but it’s also more durable. Expect occasional chain lubrication as part of maintenance. Assembly is straightforward. Handlebar attachment and front wheel installation. Budget about 20 minutes.
Verdict: This is the scooter most kids in this age range should get. It balances speed, range, and build quality without costing premium-tier money. If your child is 8-11 and ready for an electric scooter, start here.
Hiboy S2 Lite
Key specs: 13 mph maximum speed | 10.6-mile advertised range | 132 lb weight capacity | Dual brake system (electronic front, disc rear) | 8-inch solid tires | App connectivity
The Hiboy S2 Lite is the best choice if range is your priority. Real-world range is 7-8 miles under typical conditions (moderate speed, 70 lb rider, mostly flat terrain). That’s enough for meaningful neighborhood exploration without the constant anxiety of running out of battery halfway through a ride. The 13 mph top speed is appropriate for intermediate riders in this age bracket, but it’s too fast for absolute beginners.
The dual brake system is legitimately good. The electronic front brake provides smooth progressive stopping, and the rear disc brake works as a backup or for emergency stops. This is better braking than you get on most scooters in this price range.
The 8-inch solid tires are puncture-proof but provide less cushioning than pneumatic tires. Expect more vibration on rough pavement. App connectivity lets you monitor battery level and odometer, and technically, you can adjust speed settings through the app, though this feature is less useful than it sounds in practice.
Verdict: Best for confident intermediate riders at this age who want real range. If your 10-year-old is already comfortable on an electric and you’re tired of the scooter dying after 30 minutes, this is the upgrade.
Segway Ninebot E10
Key specs: 10 mph maximum speed | 6.2-mile advertised range | 132 lb weight capacity | Electronic + mechanical braking | App-controlled speed limiter | 7.5-inch pneumatic front tire
The Segway Ninebot E10 is the best premium pick for the cautious parent. The app-controlled speed limiter is the standout feature here. You can cap the scooter at 5, 7, or 10 mph through the Segway app, which means you can start a new rider at a conservative speed and increase it as they gain confidence. This is hardware-level control, not just parental preference, and it works reliably.
Real-world range is 4-5 miles under normal conditions. The combination of electronic and mechanical braking provides good stopping power. Build quality is noticeably better than the Razor models. Assembly is minimal.
The price is higher than the Razor E200, and you’re paying for the app features and the Segway brand. For most families, the Razor E200 is the better value. But if you want that speed limiter control and don’t mind paying for it, the E10 delivers.
Verdict: Best premium option for this age. The app speed limiter is genuinely useful if you’re starting a new ride and want hardware-enforced speed control. Not a substitute for supervision, but a legitimate safety feature.
The App Speed Limiter Argument
Is an app-controlled speed limiter worth paying extra for? For some families, yes. If you’re starting an 8-year-old on their first electric scooter and you want the ability to cap speed at 5 mph for the first week, then 7 mph for the next month, and eventually unlock full speed when you’re confident they’re ready, the Segway E10’s limiter does exactly that. It’s not a substitute for supervision on the first dozen rides, but it removes the temptation for the child to just pin the throttle and see what happens.
For families who don’t need that level of control, the Razor E200 at a lower price point is the better call.
Safety Note for Ages 8-11
Helmet required on every ride. Wrist guards are strongly recommended. Most kids this age are starting to ride faster and farther, which means higher consequences if they fall.
Introduce hand braking deliberately. Have them practice stopping from slow speeds before riding at full speed. Most kids figure out progressive braking within a few sessions, but the first few rides should include explicit braking practice in a safe area.
Want age-specific recommendations? See our detailed guide on the best electric scooter for an 8-year-old.
Best Electric Scooters for Kids Ages 12-14
What Changes at Age 12
Adult-scale scooters become relevant. Verify weight capacity because some models rated “for kids” top out at 132 lbs, which a 13-year-old might already exceed. The appropriate top speed for experienced riders expands to 15 mph, though that’s genuinely fast and requires an intermediate or better skill level.
Range and commute capability start mattering. Some 12-14-year-olds are using scooters for short trips to friends’ houses or school routes. You need a real-world range of at least 5-7 miles if transportation is part of the use case.
Top Picks for Ages 12-14
Razor E300
Key specs: 15 mph maximum speed | 40 minutes continuous use | 220 lb weight capacity | Extra-large deck | Hand-operated rear brake | 9-inch pneumatic front tire | 250W high-torque motor
The Razor E300 is the best step-up for teens. The 15 mph top speed is a significant jump from the 10-12 mph scooters aimed at younger kids, and it’s fast enough to feel meaningful without entering full adult commuter scooter territory. Real-world ride time is 35-40 minutes with a 100 lb rider at moderate speed.
The extra-large deck is the defining feature here. A 13 or 14-year-old with size 8 or 9 shoes doesn’t look cramped on this. The 220 lb weight capacity gives this scooter a long, useful lifespan. Even if the child outgrows the speed by age 16, the scooter will still physically accommodate them.
The 250W motor has enough torque to handle gentle hills without slowing to a crawl. The 9-inch pneumatic front tire provides decent cushioning on rough pavement. The hand brake is adequate but not exceptional. It works fine for controlled stops, but don’t expect instant lockup in an emergency.
Verdict: Best step-up scooter for teens. The large deck and 15 mph speed are appropriate for this age range, but skill level must be intermediate or above. This is too fast for a cautious beginner regardless of age.
Segway Ninebot E22
Key specs: 12.4 mph maximum speed | 13.7-mile advertised range | 220 lb weight capacity | Dual brake system (electronic front + rear fender) | 9-inch pneumatic tires | Portable folding design
The Segway Ninebot E22 is best for 12-14-year-olds who prioritize range over maximum speed. Real-world range is 9-11 miles under typical conditions, which is enough for actual transportation use. The 12.4 mph top speed is slower than the Razor E300, but it’s still appropriate for confident riders in this age bracket.
The dual brake system (electronic front plus rear fender brake) provides good stopping power. Build quality is noticeably better than the Razor. The folding mechanism is solid, and the scooter is portable enough to carry short distances or store in a car trunk. App connectivity provides battery monitoring and ride statistics.
The price is considerably higher than the Razor E300. You’re paying for the range, the build quality, and the Segway brand. For most families, the E300 is a better value unless range is a specific priority.
Verdict: Best for teens focused on range over speed. If your 13-year-old wants to use this for 3-4 mile trips to friends’ houses and you don’t want them running out of battery halfway there, the E22 delivers. If speed matters more, get the E300.
Safety Note for Ages 12-14
Full-face helmet recommended at 15 mph. The consequences of a fall at this speed are significantly higher than at 8-10 mph. A standard bicycle helmet provides adequate protection for slower speeds, but a full-face or, at a minimum, a BMX-style helmet with better jaw coverage is worth considering once you’re riding at 15 mph regularly.
Local regulations on electric scooters vary by region. Many US states prohibit riders under 16 on roads without a specific license class. Default to bike paths, sidewalks (where legal), and driveways unless you’ve verified local laws. Some municipalities have banned electric scooters entirely on public property.
For more detailed guidance on this age range, see our guide on the best electric scooter for a 10-year-old.
Electric Scooter Speed and Safety: What’s Right for Your Child?
Speed by Age Bracket
Speed matters more than most parents realize when they’re picking a scooter. A 5-year-old on a scooter that tops out at 15 mph is genuinely dangerous, not because the child will intentionally ride that fast, but because they don’t yet have the reaction time or judgment to handle it when they accidentally do. Here’s what’s actually appropriate.
| Age Range | Maximum Appropriate Speed | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 5-7 | 8 mph max | Reaction time and braking judgment still developing |
| 8-11 | 10-12 mph | Hand brake strength sufficient; can handle moderate speeds |
| 12-14 (intermediate skill) | 12-15 mph | Experienced riders ready for higher speeds |
| 14+ (experienced) | 15+ mph | Check local laws; most higher speeds fall under adult scooter regulations |
The myth that needs busting is that you should buy the fastest scooter your child’s age range allows, so they don’t outgrow it quickly. That’s backward. You match speed to current skill level, not projected skill level six months from now. An 8-year-old who’s never ridden an electric scooter doesn’t need a 15 mph scooter just because they’ll eventually be 12.
Brake Types Explained
Foot brake: Simplest system. The rider presses down on the rear fender, which creates friction against the wheel. Works adequately at low speeds (under 8 mph), but the stopping distance increases significantly above that. Most common on entry-level scooters aimed at young kids. The least reliable type at speed, but requires no hand strength.
Hand brake: Hand-operated calliper brake, usually on the rear wheel. Provides reliable stopping power and works well at speeds up to 15 mph. Requires sufficient grip strength to activate, which most kids develop by age 7-8. This is the standard on mid-range scooters.
Electronic brake (regenerative): Motor-based braking that slows the scooter by reversing current through the motor. Provides smooth, progressive stopping and the most consistent stopping distance across different speeds. Found on premium models. Some systems also feed power back into the battery during braking, though the recovered energy is minimal.
Disc brake: Mechanical disc brake, similar to what you’d find on a bicycle. Provides the strongest stopping power in dry conditions. Usually found on higher-end models or as part of a dual-brake system. Requires more maintenance than other brake types.
Most scooters in the 8-14 age range use either a hand brake or a combination of electronic and mechanical braking. Single-brake systems are adequate if the brake is well-designed. Dual-brake systems provide redundancy and better control.
The Gear Requirement
Helmet: every ride, every age. This is non-negotiable regardless of speed or skill level. Look for helmets certified to ASTM F1492 (skateboard and scooter standard) or the CPSC bicycle helmet standard. The CPSC bicycle and scooter helmet safety guidance provides detailed information on proper fit and certification standards. The American Academy of Pediatrics scooter safety recommendations specifically call out helmets as essential for all scooter riding.
Wrist guards: highest-value gear after the helmet. Most scooter falls are hands-first. Wrist injuries are the most common outcome after head injuries, and a $20 – $30 pair of wrist guards prevents most of them. If you’re only buying two pieces of safety gear, make it a helmet and wrist guards.
Knee pads: recommended for beginners at any age. Useful for kids who are still building confidence and are more likely to fall. Less critical for experienced riders, but still worth having.
Elbow pads: optional for most riders. Provide protection, but are less commonly injured in scooter falls compared to wrists and knees.
For comprehensive safety guidance, see our full kids electric scooter safety guide.
Battery and Real-World Range
Manufacturer range claims are made under ideal conditions. Low speed, light rider, flat terrain, brand-new battery. Real-world range is lower, and understanding the gap helps set expectations before your child runs out of battery a mile from home.
Real-world rule of thumb: Expect 60-70% of the claimed range under normal conditions. A scooter advertised at 6 miles of range will realistically deliver 4-4.5 miles with a 70 lb rider at moderate speed on mostly flat terrain. Hills, higher speeds, and heavier riders all reduce range further.
Here’s what you can realistically expect from the scooters in this guide:
- Razor E100: Advertised 40 minutes of continuous use. Real-world: 30-35 minutes at moderate speed with a 60 lb rider.
- Razor E200: Advertised 40 minutes. Real-world: 35-40 minutes with a 70-80 lb rider.
- Razor E300: Advertised 40 minutes. Real-world: 35-40 minutes with a 100 lb rider.
- Gotrax GKS: Advertised 4 miles. Real-world: 3-3.5 miles typical.
- Hiboy S2 Lite: Advertised 10.6 miles. Real-world: 7-8 miles typical.
- Segway Ninebot E10: Advertised 6.2 miles. Real-world: 4-5 miles typical.
- Segway Ninebot E22: Advertised 13.7 miles. Real-world: 9-11 miles typical.
Charge time: Plan for overnight charging. Most scooters in this range take 8-12 hours for a full charge from empty. Some models charge faster (4-6 hours), but the standard expectation is that you plug it in at night, and it’s ready the next day. Don’t expect to quick-charge between rides.
Battery lifespan degrades over time. After 200-300 charge cycles (roughly one to two years of regular use), you’ll notice reduced range. This is normal for all lithium-ion batteries and not a defect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can kids start riding electric scooters?
Age 5 with supervision on an age-appropriate model like the Gotrax GKS or similar scooters with maximum speeds under 8 mph. Most children are ready for independent riding (still supervised, but without an adult literally standing next to them the entire time) by age 7-8, assuming they’ve demonstrated consistent braking awareness and basic traffic sense on previous rides.
Age alone doesn’t determine readiness. A confident 6-year-old who’s been riding kick scooters since age 4 might be ready sooner. An anxious 8-year-old who’s new to scooters might need more time.
Do kids need a helmet for an electric scooter?
Yes, every ride. The ASTM F1492 scooter helmet standard or CPSC bicycle helmet certification are the two standards to look for when buying. Helmets need to fit properly. Too loose and they shift on impact. Too tight and kids won’t wear them. Measure head circumference and match to manufacturer sizing charts. Replace helmets after any significant impact even if there’s no visible damage.
Wrist guards are strongly recommended as the second piece of safety gear. Most scooter falls are hands-first, and wrist injuries are preventable with proper guards.
What is the weight limit on kids electric scooters?
Weight limits are model-specific. The scooters in this guide range from 120 lbs (Razor E100) up to 220 lbs (Razor E300, Segway Ninebot E22). Check the manufacturer specification before purchase and compare it to your child’s current weight plus expected growth over the next year or two.
Exceeding weight limits affects performance (reduced speed, shorter range) and safety (longer braking distances, potential structural stress on the frame). If your child is close to the upper limit, size up to the next model.
How fast do kids electric scooters go?
Speed varies by model. The scooters covered in this guide range from 7.5 mph (Gotrax GKS) up to 15 mph (Razor E300). Refer to the comparison table at the top of this guide for specific speeds per model.
The key is matching speed to skill level, not just age. A 9-year-old beginner needs a different max speed than a 9-year-old who’s been riding for two years. See the “What Skill Level Does Your Child Need?” section earlier in this guide for detailed guidance.
Can kids ride electric scooters on the road?
This is jurisdiction-dependent. Most US states prohibit riders under 16 on roads without a specific vehicle or scooter license class. Some municipalities have banned electric scooters entirely on public property, including sidewalks and bike paths.
Default to driveways, private property, and designated bike paths unless you’ve verified local laws in your specific area. Even where legal, roads with vehicle traffic are not recommended for riders under 14 due to the speed differential and traffic complexity.
How long does the battery last?
Real-world battery life is 60-70% of manufacturer claims under normal conditions. See the “Battery and Real-World Range” section above for specific estimates per model.
Battery lifespan (how long before the battery degrades and holds less charge) is typically 200-300 full charge cycles, which translates to one to two years of regular use. After that point, you’ll notice reduced range. Replacement batteries are available for most models but often cost 30-40% of the original scooter price.
Conclusion
The best electric scooter for your child is the one that matches their current skill level and age, not the one that matches where they might be in a year. Speed is the most important spec to get right. Too slow and they’ll be frustrated within weeks. Too fast, and they’re riding something they can’t handle safely.
Two rules matter more than anything else. Never buy faster than the child can handle today. And never skip the helmet, regardless of how confident they are or how short the ride is.
If your child is 5-7 and this is their first electric scooter, start with the Gotrax GKS. If they’re 8-11 and ready for a proper first scooter or an upgrade from a slower model, get the Razor E200. If they’re 12-14 and experienced enough for higher speeds, the Razor E300 is the right step-up.
For age-specific guidance beyond what’s covered here, see our dedicated pages on best electric scooters for 5-7 year olds, best electric scooters for 8-12 year olds, and best electric scooters for teens.
The best scooter is the one that matches where the child is today. Not where they will be in two years.