‘It’s not the mountain we conquer but ourselves’
– (Sir Edmund Hilary)
Children have a natural urge to climb. They are naturally curious and by climbing they can look out at the world below them and begin to make sense of it. A toddler, barely able to walk, will often seek out high points in the home, from clambering on the sofa to climbing to the top of the stairs.
Children have to think on their feet about the best way to reach the top and overcome the physical and mental challenge to get there. Physical skill is required as children develop coordination and strength. Climbing also promotes the ability to make decisions, supports concentration and builds self-confidence as children feel a sense of achievement for reaching the top.