Children's bicycle sizes are categorized by wheel diameter, unlike adult bikes which measure the size of the frame. A child's age can be a good indicator of what size bike would be best, but measuring her inseam will be more accurate. Ultimately your child should try out several bikes to find which is the most comfortable.
By Age
According to the International Bicycle Fund, children between the ages of 2 and 4 would be most comfortable on a bike that has 12-inch wheels. Keep in mind that bicycles geared toward very young children will have removable training wheels as well. Between the ages of 4 and 6, a 14-inch wheel would be best, though this size is not as readily available as others. Between 5 and 8, try a 16-inch wheel; 18-inch wheels are also not often marketed, so your 6-9 year old should try 16 inches or 20 inches, the 20 inch being ideal for children 7-10 years old. Many children over 9 may find 24-inch wheels the most suitable, and wheels 26 inches or above are considered adult sized.
By Inseam
While a child's age may give an indication of the bike size needed, measuring your child's inseam will be more accurate. An inseam between 14 and 16 inches would probably match well with a 12-inch wheel diameter; 16 to 20 inches to a 14-inch diameter, 18 to 22 inches to a 16-inch diameter, 20 to 24 inches to an 18-inch diameter, 22 to 25 inches to a 20-inch diameter, and 24 to 28 inches to a 24-inch diameter. Keep in mind though that the only truly accurate way to get your child an appropriately sized bike is to have him try it out.
Proper Fit
When shopping for a new bike, there are several things that would indicate a proper fit. Your child's feet should comfortably touch the ground when he is straddling the seat. When he is peddling, make sure that his knees are not coming up too high. Also, make sure that he can easily reach the handlebars without having to strain. Conversely, the handlebars should not be so close that his elbows are overly bent.
Safety
Most children's bicycles have several safety features that you should look for before purchasing. For younger children, it is best to buy a bike that has a chain cover, which prevents pants or shoelaces from being caught in the moving chain. Also, if your child is not yet confident with bike riding, look for a bike with removable training wheels. Most children find coaster brakes (brakes that stop the bike when it is pedaled backwards) easier than handbrakes to start with, as some may not have the hand strength or dexterity to reliably manipulate handbrakes. Finally, be sure to purchase your child a safe and well-fitting helmet.
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