Gear

The Best Toddler Climbing Toys And Tumbling Mats

Not only does climbing help kids build strength and motor skills, but it's fun.

by Donna Freydkin
Updated: 
Originally Published: 

No matter where they are, toddlers will find a way to climb: on your bed when your early-morning alarm hasn’t even gone off yet, on the counters when you’re already struggling for space to cook dinner, and on basically any reachable surface within your home that you hopefully have already raided for breakables. That’s why toddler climbing toys are a must-have for parents.

Thankfully, climbing is a natural behavior that has been proven to promote, among other things, strength, confidence, neuromuscular development, motor skills, and creativity. So you can’t really get mad at them when you find them chasing the cat to the top of the bookshelf or using the sofa to practice for the all-around competition at the 2032 Olympics.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has some common-sense advice when letting little kids climb:

  • Help them make a soft landing by providing mats made of safety-tested rubber or rubber-like materials.
  • And while this applies to outdoor climbing, it’s equally on point indoors. If you kid is tearing up stairs, steps and ladder rungs, they should be evenly spaced.
  • Make sure the equipment they use is age-appropriate, and that it’s never overloaded.
  • And supervise them!

What you can and should do is provide an appropriate venue. These toddler climbing toys offer indoor options to nurture your kid’s motor development and sense of exploration — and they’re a reason for you to finally take that plastic wrap off the furniture.

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Jupiduu Slide

Climbing slides are a great activity accessory for any kid who wants to feel like they're climbing Mt. Everest while only remaining a few feet off the ground. Not only is the Jupiduu Slide a safe way for your kid to gain motor skills and get some exercise, but its sleek design and fashionable colors are a stylish addition to any playroom.

$300
Bamboo Climber Pikler Triangle by Lily & River

Turns out you don't need an entire rock-climbing wall to train your toddler to become the next Alex Honnold. When your kid is only up to your knees, and still on all fours, a 3-foot tall climbing wall like this wooden triangle from Lily & River poses a challenging feat that will develop their balance, control, and muscle growth without them even realizing.

$450
Little Gymnast Balance Beam by Lily & River

This durable low beam is the safest, and least rambunctious, way for kids to get exercise while trapped in the house all day. Furniture-grade anti-slip pads ensure that there won't be any injuries even if you take your eyes off for a few moments.

$130
Play & Fold Jr. Slide by Step 2

No need for a playground when you have this perfect kid-sized slide to put in your playroom or living room. Not only does it fold up for easy transport, but it includes large steps and handrails for an easy climb to the top for young toddlers.

$60
Balance Stepping Stones and Obstacle Course by National Geographic
Little Surfer Balance Board by Lily & River

Shakas up! Whether you live by the ocean and can't wait to get your kid to ride some waves when they're a little older, or are simply California dreamin' from a colder temperature, this wooden smart board is a fun way for any toddler to practice their balance and coordination while never even leaving the house.

$130

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