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It doesn’t matter if it’s the couch, the kitchen counter, or the refrigerator: Toddlers will climb on anything. This is because climbing is inherently good for children’s cognitive development, spatial awareness, muscle strengthening, and problem-solving skills (and it’s just plain fun!). Of course, you want to make sure your toddler is exploring these skills safely—that’s where climbing toys come into play. Climbing toys for toddlers are any type of soft or hard structure designed to give your child a creative and safe space to climb and explore. Choosing the type of climbing toy can be difficult since it’s an individualized decision based on your child’s age, interests, and the space you have in your home. According to Kimber Kurr, PT, DPT, PCS, a registered physical therapist, the most important factors to consider are the stability of the climbing toy and its surrounding environment. To select the best climbing toys for toddlers, we spoke with a physical therapist and play specialist and reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on climbing structure safety. Next, we studied the designs and features of dozens of top-rated climbing toys for toddlers on the market. We carefully considered safety, durability, material, age recommendations, design, size, and value when reviewing products. Lastly, a pediatrician on our Review Board reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity surrounding play and climbing safety. Our Top Picks Best Versatility: Avenlur Walnut 9-in-1 Swedish Ladder Wall Gym at Amazon ($549) Best for Outdoors: Best for Indoors: Best for Small Spaces: Best for Montessori: Best Pikler Triangle: In This Article Our Picks How We Selected Our Experts What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Pros Multifunctional activities High maximum weight Can be used indoors and outdoors Cons Tricky assembly Playtime can last for hours with this decked-out climbing gym from Costway. Constructed with an 8-in-1 design, it has a number of fun features, including a slide, two ladders, a swing, a climbing net, an abacus, a drawing board, monkey bars, and a rock wall. It’s recommended for children ages 3 and up, but the variety of activities means older kids can enjoy it, too. Built with birch and beech wood, this sturdy structure can hold up to 110 pounds, which means it’s plenty strong enough to hold your toddler and a friend or two. Plus, the smooth surface protects your kiddo from any accidental scratches, and the edges are round for added safety. Since the climbing gym is waterproof, it can be used inside or outside. Pros Budget-friendly Soft enough for younger toddlers BPA-free plastic Cons Not as durable as other constructions If you’ve got a crawler or early walker in your house, the soft and forgiving nature of these inflatable blocks is your best bet. Since each piece is filled with air, you won’t need to worry about your toddler crashing into sharp edges or exposed nails with this climbing toy. Plus, the colorful blocks are patterned after sweet treats—birthday cake, candy bar, egg roll cake, cheese block, and matcha cake—so it makes an adorable addition to the playroom. The plastic material may not last as long as a wooden structure, but it is BPA-free. Bonus: The blocks can be deflated for easy storage when not in use. Pros Solid wood frame 9 activities in one design Holds multiple children Cons Time-consuming assembly Takes up a lot of height space The Avenlur Walnut is impressively versatile with nine activities for children to enjoy, including a trapeze swing, rock wall, rope ladder, rope wall, rock ramp climber, pull-up bar, slide, ladder, and swing. We appreciate the sturdy construction of the solid wood design, which holds up to 500 pounds total (220 per child), so even an adult can get in on the fun. While the Avenlur Walnut is tall and wide, it doesn’t take up much space other than against a wall. Pros Double-walled construction Basketball hoop Cons Low maximum weight Host your toddler’s next playdate at your house with this sturdy sports-themed climber from Step2. The plastic gym is double-walled—meaning it’s less likely to snap or crack in colder weather—to keep your kiddo safe while climbing up the ladder or scooting down the slide. Sporty kiddos will enjoy the basketball hoop and crawl-through tunnel, which can double as a soccer goal. Since the maximum weight is fairly low at 44 pounds, it’s best for younger or smaller toddlers. Pros High maximum weight Adjustability for older children Cons Detailed assembly Specialists like Kurr encourage free play, which kiddos can explore with this triangle climber. Younger toddlers can work on the basics: climbing the ladder and sliding down. For older children, the ladder and slide can be adjusted to make the slide steeper or to create more space to build a fort. The birchwood material and wide base are stable enough to prevent rocking and can hold up to 132 pounds. Pros Fits in smaller corners Encourages free play Double-sided design Cons Small size Parents looking for a smaller climbing toy to fit in their child’s bedroom will love the adorable, compact Rainbow Rocker by Labebe. It’s made from solid hardwood, so it’s built to last even with small toddlers climbing all over it. Plus, the smooth surface makes this toy easy to clean: Simply grab a rag and wipe it down to keep public areas looking tidy. There are lots of options for imaginative play thanks to the double-sided design: Children can flip it onto one side to turn it into a rocking horse and then the other to morph into a climbing structure, chair, or imaginary playhouse. Pros Birchwood construction for durability Nontoxic with environmentally-friendly materials Cons Delivery may take awhile Montessori learning encourages child-directed play and independence, and this indoor climbing gym allows them to explore and guide their own play. The climbing set includes three features for free play versatility: an arch, a ramp, and a triangle climber that can be folded up when not in use. Each part can be played with on its own, or children can mix and match them to create new challenges. Plus, this climber is made from durable birchwood with a water-based, environmentally-friendly varnish, so it doesn’t emit odors and is safe for little ones. The Best Montessori Toys to Encourage Thoughtful Play Pros Easy-to-clean vinyl Individual pieces for unlimited configurations Soft and cushiony Cons Seams may wear after repeated use This five-piece climbing kit fits the bill for babies just starting to toddle around. Made from vinyl-wrapped foam, the blocks are shaped like a small rectangle, cylinder, triangle, large rectangle, and half moon. Caregivers can move and adjust each piece to accommodate a new challenge for their growing child. The foam is soft enough to cushion falls but keep in mind that the vinyl covers may wear faster than traditional wooden options. Pros Folds flat for storage Double-sided ramp Locking mechanism Cons Fewer features than other climbers This Pikler Triangle is a good match for parents who don’t want to leave it in the living room all day. Once your kiddo is done climbing, the toy folds flat for easy storage inside a closet or beneath a bed, and a locking mechanism keeps it securely shut. And since it’s relatively lightweight, you can even pack it inside the car for a holiday road trip. The climber also comes with a double-sided ramp that functions as a slide and a rock wall. Pros High-quality wood construction Smooth, splinter-free surface Cons Paint may chip If you prefer the design of a wooden climber, opt for this high-quality birchwood arch rocker. The smooth surface is a double win: Not only is it easy to clean with a sponge, but it also prohibits any splinters from finding their way into little hands. The colorful paint is made from non-toxic ingredients, though it may occasionally chip. Still, the base on this rocker is quite stable and can support up to 110 pounds no matter the configuration, whether your kiddo is using it as a rocker, climber, bridge, or otherwise. Helpfully, the structure has several strategically-placed grips for kids to grasp. Pros Large enough for multiple kids Versatile features Easy to clean Cons Assembly required Forget the park—this Step2 Clubhouse Climber Playset brings all of the fun of the playground to your own backyard. It has ample features: two slides, a bridge, a steering wheel, a crawl-through tunnel, and a skylight. Kids can also get creative by turning the lower section into a secluded fort or a lair for hide-and-seek. The Clubhouse boasts a hefty weight limit, making it great for playdates or playing with siblings, and the plastic is easy to wipe down if snacks get spilled. Note that assembly is required. Pros Has a climbing wall and a ramp 10 configurations Cons Heavy Made from smooth, polished wood, this climber features a 47-inch slide with guard rails to prevent tumbles and an adjustable connection point so you can make the angle steeper or more gradual, depending on your child’s age and height. When your kid is tired of sliding, simply flip it over to find a climbing wall with eight handholds of varying shapes and sizes. Even better: The Pikler Triangle is adjustable and can be reconfigured in up to 10 different forms, including a house and a cube. While the structure is foldable, it is heavy, so it’s not the most portable option. Pros Can accomodate several kids at once Plastic material won’t rust Cons Large Once your kiddo is ready to move beyond a basic ladder climber, an outdoor dome climber is an exciting next step. This climber can hold up to 150 pounds, so multiple kiddos can play together, and since it’s made from plastic, it won’t corrode, fade, or rust. On top of the 5.5-foot dome are tubes that can be used as monkey bars for older kids that want to put their agility to the test. To assemble, simply pop the plastic tubes and connectors together. Each connector has double self-locking springs, so you can rest assured it’ll stay in place. Plus, thanks to the wide, no-tip base, no anchors are necessary. Pros Variable terrain for mental stimulation Fits several children at one time Cons Low maximum weight capacity This Climber Play Tent pulls double duty as a climbing wall and a playhouse. On the outside, one wall features a handful of climbing holds so children can strategize new routes on the way to the summit. Once they’re done scaling the walls, kids can duck beneath the triangle as it morphs into a cozy and private playhouse, fit for friendly chats or quiet time with a book. The second triangle wall even boasts a window to inspire imaginative play. Pros Easy to clean Versatility in configurations Cons Lightweight and easily moveable Open-ended play just got even better for babes who are still crawling. This kit comes with five polyurethane foam shapes that parents can move, tilt, or remove depending on their needs and the child’s interests. Each block is covered with a phthalate-free vinyl, and the foam has met several industry safety standards, so they’re safe for kiddos to play on. Thanks to the foam, each piece is super lightweight, making it easy for toddlers to practice fine and gross motor skills like stacking and carrying. However, since they are so lightweight, they may still slide around despite the nonslip material on the bottom. Pros Environmentally-friendly foam Colorful Six pieces Cons Pieces don't velcro together Babies can’t walk, but crawling over foam structures is like climbing for toddlers: mentally stimulating and physically strengthening. Covered with leather-like polyurethane material, these blocks are stuffed with safe, low-emission foam. There are six pieces in this set—a square, half moon, arch, cylinder, triangle, and foldable circle—available in several colorful packs. Each piece can be rearranged to accommodate a new pattern for your baby to enjoy. Pros Unique safari-themed design Fits multiple children Fun design inspires imaginative play Cons Parts come in separate boxes Kids can go on a safari from the comfort of their own backyard with this unique climber. The shape of this outdoor structure itself inspires imaginative play as kids turn the steering wheel, peer through the swiveling pretend binoculars, and clamber about the truck, creating fantasy worlds and adventures. Thanks to oversized tires and three entry points into the truck, there are multiple routes to climb, and a fun slide makes exiting the truck exciting. The top platform can handle up to three children—with a maximum weight of 60 pounds each—and there’s ample room to crawl under the truck, too. Assembly is required, and the truck comes in multiple boxes, so prepare for some work. Pros Can be combined with additional playsets Made and manufactured in the USA Double-wall plastic construction Cons Crawl-through tunnels are small For outdoor climbing fun, you’ll need a structure that can stand up to the elements. The Simplay 3 Young Explorers Adventure Climber is made with double-wall plastic construction that’s durable enough to withstand inclement weather, yet it’s light enough that adults can easily move it around as needed. The playset includes a wide slide, various climbing walls, and a series of crawl-through tunnels that run beneath the toy. (The tunnels are a bit narrow, so they may be a bit tough for older kiddos to shimmy through.) Pros Can hold multiple kids at once Safe blower Storage area Cons May need additional anchor points There are few things kids love more than a bouncy house. Anchored to the ground with stakes, the Little Tikes Jump ‘n Slide offers just over 100 square feet of bouncing area, plenty of space for three kiddos to enjoy at the same time. Mesh walls keep the bouncing kids safely contained, and there’s a storage area on the side for shoes. The heavy-duty blower comes with a fault interrupter outlet to prevent shocks and electrical shortages. Bonus: The entire house inflates and deflates in a matter of minutes. Pros Lots of features Made from industrial grade pine wood Cons Heavy An indoor jungle gym is a great solution for getting little ones’ wiggles out when it’s rainy or chilly outside. Constructed from industrial-grade pine wood, the Avenlur Indoor Playground Jungle Gym has lots of fun features, including a mini rock climbing wall, adjustable slide, monkey bars, rope ladder, swing, and a wooden ladder. It’s designed for toddlers as young as 2 and kiddos up to 6 years old. The gym does take up a lot of space and weighs close to 100 pounds, so plan accordingly. In order to select the best climbing toys for toddlers, we researched the designs and features of dozens of top-rated toys for toddlers on the market. When reviewing products, we carefully considered design, age recommendations, size, materials, assembly, and value. We also spoke with a physical therapist and a play specialist to discuss what to look for when selecting climbing toys. Moreover, we reviewed guidance from the AAP on climbing structure safety, including how to prevent falls or getting caught or stuck on climbing equipment and toys. These experts discussed the importance of climbing for cognitive and physical development and what parents should look for in a climbing toy. Are wooden climbers safe for toddlers? According to Kurr, wooden climbers are safe for toddlers as long as adult supervision is present at all times (and if they've been safety tested). You want to make sure to use a structure with sturdy, high-quality wood so that it doesn’t crack or splinter beneath your child’s weight. Beyond the weight capacity, Kurr believes that the inherent stability of the stairs is the most important component to consider. If a child happens to climb on the toy in an unintended way, you'll want to ensure it won't fall over, she says. What age is a Pikler Triangle suited for? In general, Pikler triangles are well-suited for toddlers and preschoolers, with many brands’ age recommendations falling between 6 months old and 5 years old. However, the uses will change as the child gets older. “The Pikler Triangle can be beneficial for kids that are pulling up to stand,” Kurr says, noting that this development typically comes around 8 to 9 months of age. Over time, little ones will focus less on using the triangle for support and more as a climbing toy. “As they’re growing, they’re more focused on climbing to the top and over to the side,” Kurr says. She recommends adult supervision to ensure the child safely climbs on the triangle without stumbling or falling. How much are climbing toys for toddlers? Climbing toys are often large or take up more space than your average toy, so they can be an upfront investment (but with a years-long return). Smaller climbing toys, like the Magifire Playtime Inflatable Blocks, reap a budget-friendly price tag, while other climbing toys made with wood or a large design, like the Avenlur Walnut, are a higher price. Heather Balogh Rochfort is a freelance writer specializing in parenting, fitness, travel, and the outdoors. In 2017, she became a mother and immediately found herself entrenched in the beautiful-yet-demanding world of parenting. Since then, she has broadened her scope to include the gear, products, and experiences that go hand-in-hand with motherhood. She has written for The Washington Post, Outside, Parents, and more.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-best-climbing-toys-for-toddlers-tout-6b891f4a363e432aa48d58d809dd3258.jpg "The Best Climbing Toys for Toddlers To (Safely) Work Out All Their Extra Energy (1)")
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Best Versatility
Avenlur Walnut 9-in-1 Swedish Ladder Wall Gym
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Best for Outdoors
Step2 Game Time Sports Climber
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Best for Montessori
Wood and Hearts Indoor Climbing Gym
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Best Foam
Best Choice Products 5-Piece Climb and Crawl
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Best Multipurpose
Step2 Clubhouse Climber Playset
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Best Dome-Shaped
Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars Climbing Tower
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Best for Older Toddlers
Step2 Safari Truck Climber
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Best Backyard Climbing Structure
Simplay 3 Young Explorers Adventure Climber
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Best Inflatable
Little Tikes Jump 'n Slide Bouncer
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How We Selected the Best Climbing Toys for Toddlers
Our Experts
and clinical assistant professor of physical therapy at Ithaca College What to Look for in Climbing Toys for Toddlers
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Family
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