Introduction to Montessori Climbing Toys
Montessori climbing toys provide children with the opportunity to engage in physical activity, build strength and coordination, and challenge themselves in a safe and controlled environment. These toys are an important part of the Montessori philosophy, which emphasises the importance of movement and hands-on learning in the development of children.
Just as we have to prepare a special environment for sport, like a tennis court if we are to play tennis, the child must be given the means for the kind of exercise which is necessary for his life. It is essential that the small child has the opportunity for movement.
Maria Montessori
Montessori believed that through movement and physical activity, children are able to develop their muscles and coordination, as well as their concentration and problem-solving skills.
You can also explore how to incorporate Montessori teachings at home. Read our article here.
The importance of movement and hands-on learning in the Montessori philosophy
In the Montessori philosophy, movement and hands-on learning are considered essential for the development of a child’s mind and body. This approach to education recognises that children are naturally curious and want to explore and learn about their environment. Allowing them the freedom to move and engage with materials through their senses helps to foster this natural curiosity and allows them to fully absorb and internalise the knowledge they are gaining.
In addition, movement helps to strengthen a child’s physical coordination and control, which is important for their overall development. By incorporating movement and hands-on learning into the classroom, Montessori educators provide children with the opportunity to engage with the world in a meaningful and engaging way, which helps to lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning and exploration.
The benefits of climbing toys for children’s physical, cognitive, and social development
Climbing toys offer a variety of benefits for children’s physical, cognitive, and social development. On the physical front, climbing helps to improve a child’s balance, coordination, and overall strength.
It also helps to develop gross motor skills, which are important for a child’s overall physical development. In terms of cognitive benefits, climbing can help children to develop problem-solving skills as they navigate the challenges of the climbing structure. It can also foster creativity as children explore different ways to climb and play on the toy.
On a social level, climbing toys provide an opportunity for children to interact with their peers, encouraging teamwork and cooperation as they play together. Overall, climbing toys offer a fun and engaging way for children to develop a range of important skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Benefits of Montessori Climbing Toys
Physical benefits
Montessori climbing toys are a wonderful addition to any Montessori classroom or home environment. These toys provide a range of benefits for children, both physically and cognitively. From a physical standpoint, climbing helps to improve balance, coordination, and overall strength, while also developing gross motor skills.
Cognitive benefits
On a cognitive level, climbing toys encourage problem-solving and creativity as children navigate the challenges of the toy and find new ways to play. In addition to these individual benefits, climbing toys also offer an opportunity for social interaction and teamwork as children play and explore together. Overall, Montessori climbing toys provide a fun and engaging way for children to develop important skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Our favourites montessori Climbing Toys
TP Toys Indoor Wooden Climbing Cube at KIDLY
The TP Climbing Wooden Cube is a versatile wooden toy that encourages active play and helps toddlers build confidence, core strength, and gross motor skills. It is part of the TP Active-Tots Modular range, which includes the Wooden Climbing Triangle, Climbing Bridge and Slide, allowing you to create a complete indoor assault course. The Wooden Cube can be used in multiple ways, such as a tunnel, den, climbing frame, or even a spaceship. It is made from FSC-certified timber, making it environmentally friendly, and comes with a one-year guarantee from TP Toys. This toy is a great gift for toddlers and is sure to provide hours of fun and physical activity.
Sawdust & Rainbows Wee’un Pikler Triangle – THE KID COLLECTIVE
The Wee’UN is an award-winning wooden climbing frame that provides endless fun and development opportunities for children. Designed by influential paediatrician Emmi Pikler, it is suitable for use from birth up to 50kg and can be used to encourage imagination, build confidence, and develop gross motor skills. Children can use it to sit, crawl, stand, and climb, and will love inventing new ways to play with it. We love the Wee’UN because it can be easily folded away for storage when not in use. Its modern design is a refreshing twist on the classic Pikler triangle and is sure to be a hit with kids and parents alike.
Goodevas Montessori Climbing Frame from Etsy
The Goodevas kids climber set is a Montessori-inspired climbing frame designed to help children learn to navigate and explore their own abilities and boundaries. It encourages free movement and play, while also helping to develop gross motor skills, physical strength, and agility. This climbing structure is suitable for use in a Montessori environment and allows children to engage in self-directed play and learning at their own pace. It is a great way for toddlers to have fun while also developing important physical skills.
The Take Away
Montessori climbing frames are a fantastic tool for helping children develop their gross motor skills and physical strength, while also encouraging free movement and play. These climbing structures provide an opportunity for children to learn and explore at their own pace, helping them to build confidence and independence. They can be used in a Montessori environment or at home, and are a great way for children to have fun while also learning and growing. Overall, Montessori climbing frames are a valuable addition to any child’s play space, providing endless opportunities for learning, growth, and fun.
