Climbing with children: key tips

They pull themselves up on the edge of the table, clamber onto the sofa, and later climb up trees like little monkeys: lots of children enjoy climbing from a young age. That means climbing and bouldering, as sports, are also perfect for kids. They’re often better at climbing than adults, learn amazingly quickly and are really in tune with their body.

Climbing challenges their body and mind alike: just trying to hoist yourself up doesn’t work. More energetic children, in particular, try to climb very quickly at the start. Soon, they notice that their friends making deliberate movements are just as quick – if not quicker – and they might even have more stamina as well. Children watch each other and learn from each other.

An easy start with bouldering

As with all sports, it’s important that children can learn and practice without feeling under pressure. So, if a child is on the wall and wants to get down, you should let them. This helps them trust the process. It’s helpful to set small goals rather than wanting to get to the end of the route from the off. Bouldering is a great way for little ones to get started with climbing. It’s often easier for children to feel brave enough to take the first steps when they’re not dealing with a rope, harness or safety device. When they’re older, they can learn to take responsibility when doing sport climbing with a rope.

Courses and equipment for children

Climbing is a controlled sport where children are safe: the right equipment minimises the risk of injury. It’s important that children receive professional training by taking the relevant courses; this is recommended even if their parents are experienced climbers.

Most climbing gyms offer specific services for families and children, ranging from taster sessions to children’s courses through to regular training slots for advanced children.

More information can be found here:

For indoor climbing, children only need a suitable climbing harness and – as bare feet are banned in the gyms – a pair of shoes, like children’s climbing shoes. They don’t have much pretension and are designed to grow one to two sizes with the child’s foot. To start with, though, normal indoor trainers are fine.