Bouldering is perfect for active families looking to build resilience in themselves and their children. Lots of kids do it and, as long as you take the time to prepare properly, it can be a very safe hobby that is enjoyed by children from around age 9 and up. This is how to safely get your kids started with bouldering:
Choose the right environment. Various climbing gyms do have their own kids area, with shorter walls and lots of mats on the ground – plus they use kids specific colours for most of these easy to grab holds. They offer young climbers their own space to explore at their leisure. For Bouldering Cheltenham, contact https://www.270climbing.com/
Start with the basics. Start your children off with some basic stretches and an easy climb. Teach them how to assess the mats, spot other climbers and utilise both their hands and feet on the wall.
Supervise and spot. Monitor your child, especially if they are new to climbing. Be close by so you can watch them – modulating their descent and ensuring they always lands on the mats.
Encourage good habits. Encourage them to climb down rather than jump, and rest when they get tired; remind them that there is a difference between being afraid vs listening to your body.
Compliment kids who try to figure things out instead of simply, making it to the top.
Make it fun! If bouldering with kids, turn it into a game. Exercise should give us the confidence to move, and help you learn.
More than just fun for the whole family, bouldering truly does have something to offer all ages and abilities with a focus on safety and support that translates into an ongoing lifelong pursuit – one rock climb at a time.
