Climbing and clambering – it supports your toddler's balance

What to try 

• Give your toddler plenty of opportunities to practise climbing when you’re at a park, soft play area, or even on playthings at home.  
• Check the area around where they are climbing for safety before they set off.  
• Stay close to offer reassurance and encouragement.  
• Try to resist the temptation to lift your toddler or hold them to help them climb. They might stay close to the ground at first climbing without your help; this will develop strength, control and their awareness of their capabilities which will help them decide which challenges are safe for them.  

Good to know 

Your toddler can build up their core stability and strength via pulling, climbing and clambering. So, if you can see an opportunity for climbing, take it. Always remember to introduce your toddler to climbing equipment that is suitable for their stage of development. Let them take it at their own pace to help build their confidence.