Have you ever witnessed a toddler who didn’t attempt to scale their crib rails or surprise their parents by climbing the living room furniture? Climbing is an inherent trait in a toddler’s DNA, so the real question isn’t whether they can climb but rather if they have the opportunity to explore this natural ability.

Multiple factors outside parental control can impact a toddler’s ability to rock climb.

The most common limitation is commercial gym insurance policies and corresponding gym rules. Most facilities have a minimum age and weight requirement. While it will vary by facility, the minimum age is generally 4 or 5 years. The weight requirement applies if a facility has auto-belay systems requiring a minimum weight for user safety.

There are exceptions. ABC Kids Climbing in Boulder, CO, offers climbing programs for kids as young as 2.5. While they were one of the first gyms to offer programs for toddlers, the sport’s growth has led to other climbing gym companies offering similar programs. Like most toddler sports programs, they often require adult participation or supervision. Offerings of unstructured climbing for toddlers are generally limited.

If you find a facility that allows your toddler to climb with your supervision or are an avid climber willing to venture outdoors with little ones, there are a few essential things to focus on. These can also apply to 4-and 5-year-old rock climbers once they are old enough to participate.

What to Know When You Take a Toddler Rock Climbing

Prioritize safety.

They’re kids. You can tell them the rules 100 times, and they’ll still forget them in seconds. To keep them and other climbers safe, always keep your eye on them, enforce the no running rule, and take the time to explain other safety rules (i.e., remind them to look and make sure no one is climbing above when walking under a climbing wall).

Additionally, always have them wear a helmet when climbing outdoors. Even if they sit near the rock while another person is climbing, have them keep their helmets on. There’s no need to risk a brain injury from falling rock pieces. This is just one example of the many safety measures that should be in place when climbing outdoors.

They are good at knowing their limits.

Respect their limits. Toddlers are incredibly intuitive and adept at expressing their needs. If a toddler indicates that they don’t want to climb further or higher, it’s crucial not to push them. Similarly, if they desire to climb more or higher, encourage their exploration (within reason). As long as you’re vigilant and can assist them in descending safely, it’s perfectly safe for them to climb to the top of the wall.

Keep it fun.

Toddlers have their whole lives ahead of them. If they want to pursue climbing at a competitive level as they grow up, that’s fine. When they are young and just starting, make sure they have fun. Don’t pressure them to stick to one color climb or a specific path if climbing outside. The odds are that they can’t reach all the holds anyway. Focusing on helping them use the holds they can reach and climbing only as high as they wish.

Don’t bother investing in climbing shoes.

While climbing shoes are an option, toddlers often find their sneakers more comfortable. Additionally, their feet grow rapidly. Climbing shoes can be expensive, so waiting until they’re older is advisable. If you believe climbing shoes would benefit them, consider purchasing a used pair or investing in regular shoes with grippy soles to save some money.

Use a kid’s full-body harness.

Toddlers are tiny humans. When climbing ropes, opt for a kid’s full-body harness. Most gyms have a few available to rent, or you can invest in your own. This harness type will fit their small frame and ensure their safety.

Toddlers are capable rock climbers. It’s just a matter of finding a facility that allows them to participate and ensuring you always supervise them. Rock climbing is a low-risk sport everyone can enjoy when you take appropriate safety measures, but it can be dangerous without adherence to safety protocols. When it’s time to take your toddler climbing, remember to trust that they know their limits and focus on keeping it fun. If you know of any climbing programs for toddlers near you, please share below to help others find opportunities for their toddler(s) to unleash their inner rock climber!