How to Teach a Child to Climb a Tree

Attention all nostalgic parents: Relive your childhood by teaching your youngster to climb a tree.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A strong tree
• An adventurous child
• A clear day
• An encouraging parent

1. Find a sturdy tree with large branches. Make sure it is not located near anything dangerous like power lines or a waterway.

2. Teach your child how to seek out strong branches and climbing routes once she is in the tree. Remind her that branches are strongest near the trunk.

3. Suggest that your child pretends to be a koala or a monkey. This will help him imagine using his arms and legs to climb.

4. Look out for ants, especially near the trunk of the tree.

5. Cheer for your child and reassure her from below.

6. Coach him to climb slowly and carefully until he knows the particular tree well.

7. Ask her how she’s feeling about the height. When she reaches her (or your) comfort level of height, ask her to come back down.

8. To climb down, repeat the same route in reverse. Instruct your child to hold on tight with his hands while he reaches down with his feet to find a branch below.

9. Do not allow your child to jump out of the tree, unless you’ve approved the distance.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to plant a good climbing tree in your yard, consider a mulberry, magnolia or live oak. Consult your local garden nursery for detailed advice.
• If your child loves tree climbing, consider signing her up for rock climbing lessons. She may be a natural climber.
• Do not climb during or after a rain. Only climb when the tree is dry.

[ewmcguire]

on 4/3/2008 Great point about being visually supportive. Sometimes you don't even need to say a word!

[only1special1]

on 4/3/2008 Most of all, stand there and give your child the visual support of seeing you. They may not need you to hold their hand, but they need to know you are there until they are comfortable with doing it alone.