The Child That Climbs EVERYTHING
Do you have a child that climbs everything?
I had one of those – a crazy toddler climber.
Shes now 9 and she’s settled down. Well, not really. She has stopped the death defying stunts.
Instead, she dies constant cartwheels and handstands – Which is awesome. I certainly don’t miss her climbing the outside of stairs, on the kitchen benches, up on the draws.
You might think “well that is just crazy, how is your child getting up there in the first place?”
I have those meta-human children that come complete with soundproof invisibility cloaks.
The little buggers just sneak right past me while I’m cooking a 3-course meal, feeding the goldfish, washing lunch time dishes, folding the washing…….I just don’t know how they get past me???
Some Statistics:
Statistical data compiled by the ACCC website indicated that at least 14 children under nine years old died in Australia during 2000-2015 after domestic furniture fell on them. -www.finance.nsw.gov.au
It’s important we practice safety around the home
- Reinforce Furniture
- Keep Furniture and Large toys away from windows
- Keep Doors to outside staircases locked
- Use door chimes as a backup in case doors are left unlocked
I don’t believe you should discourage your child from climbing completely. Climbing is a great physical activity and promotes awesome gross motor skills.
There are things you can do for the Child That Climbs EVERYTHING
- Climb Safely – Not on Furniture or Staircases for e.g.
- Teach Them To Get Down Safely
- Teach Them To Stay Calm If They Get In Trouble – Call Out For Help
- As a parent – keep calm if you find your child in a predicament.
If your child is old enough to comprehend a rewards system you can explain to them if they stop climbing the furniture and every other thing in sight you will take them outdoors to climb.
Some children LOVE to climb.
- Find some climbing trees in your area
- Consider purchasing a climbing frame or slackline
- Set up an obstacle course in the yard
- Replace climbing with other activities via distraction
Some Other activities which promote gross motor skills are:
- Crawling
- Bending & Stretching
- Running & Skipping
- Hopping & Bat to ball games
These are just my opinions on how I feel about being blessed with a child that loves to climb on everything. I don’t claim to be a parenting expert.
I think physical activity isn’t encouraged enough among our children.
I figure you can fight against it or you can promote climbing, SAFELY.
There was once a time where my daughter climbing everything had me in a bit of a state – I did not know what to do with the monkey toddler climber – Arghhh!
It didn’t take long to realise she just wanted to challenge herself. She is now 9 years old and loves weekly gymnastics, swimming, cycling, running and does drum lessons.
She also challenges my sanity as well.