Why Does Your Toddler Loves Climbing on Everything?

They love to wriggle their tiny bodies around and climb on chairs, sofas, tables and even you! It is like they are trying to scale up a tree. You must be prepared, since out of the blue, they may try to scale you.

It is truly a developmental stage of the brain, where the body tries to coordinate with both the sides of the brain. Toddlers manage to place their hand and foot with an inherent quality to have a connect with body and brain.

When Does a Toddler Begin to Climb?

Around the 18-19 month mark, you may see your toddlers trying to climb. It comes right after they gather mastery over walking. But, you may be surprised to know that the act of trying to ‘climb’ begins once they start to crawl. You may notice them trying to crawl ‘over’ your legs, or on your tummy etc. This is their very first initiation into ‘climbing’.

But the actual climbing starts between the ages of 1-2 years roughly. Some toddlers who start walking early may start climbing by the time they turn 12-13 months of age. But most toddlers master the art of climbing by the time they turn 2. They grasp at doorways, windows and tables, anything you name it, and they use it as a lever to climb.

What Are the Benefits of Climbing For Toddlers?

Climbing works toward development of both the upper and lower body of toddlers. It is good for toddlers to be moving around and climbing as it has many physical and mental benefits for them. Some of the benefits of climbing are-

• It works on the whole body
• Improves dexterity
• Leads to improved grip and grasp in toddlers
• Helps with speed and agility
• Builds physical strength
• Teaches balance and coordination
• Helps overcome fear and builds confidence
• Inculcates problem-solving skills
• It teaches them to assess and take risks
• Aids in development of motor skills

How to Encourage Your Toddler to Climb and Balance?

Climbing and balance go hand-in-hand. To learn one, the other is required too. Here are a few tips you can try to encourage your toddler to learn balance while climbing-

• Practice makes perfect. This adage holds true in this case as well. Make them practice climbing daily and in no time they will learn to do it well
• Make it a fun activity for you and your toddler. Taking the pressure off or trying too hard will help them enjoy and do it at their pace
• Make them walk on different surfaces like- grass, cemented floor, marble floor, tiles, sand, dry leaves etc. This will help them to learn balancing
• Make them try climbing on pillows, mattresses etc.
• Let toddlers know they need to ask for help
• Praise them for safe climbing methods

Tips to Help Your Toddler Climb Better

Toddlers cannot comprehend the severity of a fall, so their approach toward climbing anywhere and everywhere is very naive but brave. However, a toddler loves climbing, and the fear of falling should not come in their way. Here are a few tips you can try to help them climb better-

• Adopt stress free supervision
• Guide them when they climb
• Provide an element of distraction, when climbing seems harmful
• Cheer and encourage them when they fall
• Ensure their self-sufficiency
• Teach the way to climb up and get down as well

[Read : Fall Prevention in Babies by Dr Chetan Ginigeri]

Ways to Stop a Toddler From Climbing on Everything

Part of a developing toddler’s mobility is their natural affinity towards climbing. Consider this a natural part of progression. The trick however, is to let them climb, but find ways and methods to prevent your tiny tot from climbing on anything and everything.

1. Set Rules

Put a set of rules in place on what your toddler is allowed to climb and what is out of bounds for them. Be firm and clear and implement them well.

2. Intervene When Things Get Serious

When your toddler disregards your warnings and climbs on things which are potentially dangerous and a threat to their safety, then you need to intervene and remove them from that place.

3. Mark Safe Areas

Let them know which all areas and things are safe for them to climb. For example, pillows and mattresses, some rides in the park, play gym, step stool etc. are some things which can be a safe outlet for them to climb.

4. Be Vigilant

Be vigilant and on guard when your toddler is climbing. Prepare yourself to be the official catcher when they fumble or take a tumble.

5. Avoid Accidents

Many dangerous and potential accidents can be avoided if you prepare well in advance and remove anything which may cause injury.

How to Keep a Toddler Safe While Climbing?

There is no harm in winning a few bruises while learning to climb. But, you should not let a few falls discourage your toddler from climbing. Instead, find ways to keep them safe, like-

• Inculcating discipline
• Provide safe climbing options
• Set up climb-proof facilities
• Teach them to climb down
• Secure heavy furniture like bookcases, open shelf cupboards etc.
• Keep furniture away from windows and railings
• Secure drawers and cabinets with latches
• Block top and bottom entrances to staircases
• Keep ladders and other wobbly furniture away

What if Your Toddler is Not Able to Climb?

Generally, toddlers start to climb at various ages, and some are late bloomers. But, around two and a half years of age, if you notice that your toddler is having any restricted mobility or an inability to jump, then consult your doctor and physical therapists. They will ascertain the toddler’s balance and strength and check if any physical therapy is required.

Once they realize the scope of their mobility, toddlers embark on an adventure of their own. Climbing is one such activity which helps develop their gross motor skills. So, however much it may make your heart flutter with anxiety when your little one attempts climbing, the key is to remain cool, watchful, and encourage them.

[Read : When Do Toddlers Start Climbing Stairs?]

FAQ’s

1. Is Toddler Climbing a Milestone?

Yes, climbing is a milestone. Climbing develops alongside other milestones like crawling, standing, and walking. For example, a toddler who learns to crawl may soon try to ‘climb’ by crawling over the objects. Climbing in itself is an impressive act and is termed as a nerve-wracking milestone.

2. Why Are Toddlers so Good at Climbing?

Curiosity to explore and the fun element tempts toddlers to climb everywhere. The reason they are so good at it is because they are not afraid of anything. So, in the process of exploring and trying to climb, they actually become adept at climbing.

3. How do I Get my 2-Year-Old to Stop Climbing on Everything?

When you feel that your toddler is climbing on anything and everything, including things which could lead to potential injuries, it’s best to remove them from the scene. Take them for a walk, or distract them by indulging in some other activity, or by showing something outside the window etc. It is better to stop them from climbing on potentially dangerous stuff rather than regret later.

Read Also: Why Do Toddlers Throw Things and Tips to Help Them?