Children Climbing Up The Wall

For many children, the idea of climbing a vertical climbing wall seems totally impossible and dreadfully scary.  However, getting children to try climbing walls and physical apparatus is a great way to boost their confidence, as well as help with hand-eye co-ordination and concentration.  This doesn't mean to say you should rush out to your nearest climbing wall and get them heading into the sky.  Instead, try out a few climbing activities at home and see how they get on.

Stepping stones at the park are a great way to start off if you have any near your home.  If not, make a few using sheets of paper on your lawn!

Climbing a tree is fun and even getting a little height by themselves (or a little help) can be very rewarding for the children, make sure the child is supervised at all times to avoid danger.

Walking along a low wall is great for balance and gross motor skills.

Stepping over huge tree roots can be tricky and a good practice activity for balance and concentration.

Traversing walls have become more popular recently and many children's centres and community centres have low, easily accesses climbing holes and stones so children can move along the wall from right to left rather than climb upwards.  This is ideal for little ones scared of being too high off the floor.

It's all good physical practice and great fun for all ages children.  Just take care not to believe those who think they can do it alone until you see it for yourself so stay close by!