Kids either take to climbing like a duck to water or not at all. Yet even the most timid of children may eventually overcome the natural fear of leaving the ground, if given a safe and supportive environment in which to do so. Indoor climbing is the ideal way to start small children climbing because you can focus completely on your child without having to worry about outside factors like weather.
Function
Many children are naturally climbers, from the moment they first pull themselves to their feet to scrambling on rocks outside. Indoor rock climbing channels that energy in a safe environment, helping your child stay fit and healthy. At the same time, he can build strength, coordination and problem-solving ability by making his way up the walls.
Considerations
Even the most discerning parents can get more excited about a new hobby for their children than the kids themselves. Take a step back and ask yourself whether your child shows a genuine interest in, or at least seems open to, the idea of indoor climbing or not. If he's not interested, don't push. Wait for him to ask about climbing instead. This makes it more likely that he'll have a pleasant first experience, setting the tone for the rest of his indoor climbing adventures.
Pitfalls
Aside from the big pitfall of accidentally forcing your child into doing something he's not interested in, watch for him to show signs of fear, a natural reaction to the idea of leaving the ground. He may only be comfortable going partway up the wall at first, gradually working up to a full ascent as he builds confidence. Also, check that the gym staff are attentive while belaying or, if you're the belayer, make sure to keep your full attention on what you're doing. Your child's safety is in your hands.
Equipment
Your child should wear a full-body climbing harness until he's too big to fit in one, usually around age 7 or 8. Once your child no longer fits in a full-body harness she can climb in a lower-body-only harness like adults; you can always add a chest harness for extra safety. An adjustable harness that will grow with your child is a worthwhile investment if it looks like he'll continue climbing for a while; it will eventually pay for itself in rental fees saved.
Special sticky rubber-soled climbing shoes will make scaling the walls easier. Because climbing shoes must fit the foot snugly, leaving little room to grow, consider renting climbing shoes from the climbing gym or buying used until your child's feet stop growing so quickly.
Benefits
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children and adolescents should do at least an hour of physical activity every day, including muscle-strengthening activities at least three days per week. Rock climbing not only builds muscle strength, it also encourages coordination, balance and flexibility, and teaches your child how to work as part of a team.
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