If you're the parent of a little climber, you’ve probably discovered ‘Pikler Triangles’ in your search for safe but stimulating toys. These stylish climbing frames seem to be popping up in every nursery and playroom. But with ladders, gaps, and hard materials, you’d be forgiven for wondering if they’re actually safe for your baby or toddler.
We have good news: They are! But don’t just take our word for it, keep reading to learn all about it! In this guide, we’ll walk you through what Pikler Triangles are, how they work, their benefits for your child’s development, and how to use them safely at home.
Ready to climb the ladder to perfect parenting? Let’s dive in!
What are Pikler Triangles?
Pikler Triangles are wooden climbing frames designed for babies and toddlers. They were invented by Hungarian paediatrician Dr Emmi Pikler, who believed in allowing children to move freely and develop at their own pace.
A typical Pikler Triangle features a triangular frame with rungs that little ones can climb, hang from, or crawl under. Some models also come with add-ons like ramps or slides, making them even more versatile. This unique toy offers a range of ways to play, meaning it entertains and supports the development of kids aged 6 months to 5+ years.
These baby climbing frames are designed to encourage gross motor skills, spatial awareness, problem-solving, and confidence through safe, open-ended play.
Are Pikler Triangles safe?
Yes, Pikler Triangles are completely safe when used correctly. They're intentionally low to the ground, made from sturdy wood, and designed to support young children's natural climbing instincts.
Children develop their climbing abilities naturally, meaning they are unlikely to take risks beyond their skill level. However, you should always supervise play and be prepared to step in, especially with newer climbers.
That said, like any climbing frame or play equipment, there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind. Accidents can happen, but they’re usually preventable with proper supervision and a safe setup.
Common safety concerns
Pikler Triangles aren’t your average kids' toy, so it’s normal to have reservations. Here are some common concerns parents have about these baby climbing frames.
What if my child falls off?
This is probably the number one worry, and we don’t blame you. Ladders, gaps, slides, and mini rock walls might look a lot like tumble risks. But remember, Pikler Triangles are designed for safe climbing.
Most are under a metre tall and placed on the floor, meaning any fall is from a very low height, limiting how badly your toddler could be hurt. However, you can add another layer of safety by placing foam pads or soft gym mats underneath the frame.
Babies and toddlers are naturally cautious (despite what it feels like sometimes!). They tend to explore gradually, build confidence with time, and fall safely. Supervised play on a Pikler Triangle allows them to discover and challenge their limits in a safe setting, teaching them valuable skills that’ll come in handy down the line.
It doesn’t look sturdy enough
A high-quality Pikler Triangle should be extremely stable. Look for one from a reputable brand, such as Rebo.
Our Monteressio climbing frames are made from laminated solid wood with wide bases, secure joints, and smooth edges. Each part of the structure should lock together securely, from the original product to compatible attachments you add on later. If it folds, make sure it has a locking mechanism to prevent it from collapsing during use.
What if they get stuck?
It’s rare for children to get stuck on a Pikler Triangle. Most toddlers quickly learn how to climb up and down confidently and intuitively make moves to suit their ability. If they do get stuck (it happens!), this is a great chance to encourage problem-solving. If your little one appears distressed, offer gentle support and a helping hand before lifting them off too quickly.
It doesn’t look as safe as a soft toy
It’s true – a Pikler Triangle doesn’t have the same cushy feel as a plush teddy or a soft play mat. But while it may look more like a piece of furniture than a cuddly toy, it’s built with safety and development in mind. Pikler Triangles are intentionally made from strong, sturdy wood to support your child’s weight and withstand daily climbing, pulling, and wobbling.
Soft toys are great, but they don’t offer much physical challenge. Pikler Triangles allow children to explore movement, strength, and coordination. With a soft mat underneath and an adult nearby, they can be just as safe as any other toy in your playroom.
How to use a Pikler Triangle safely
Safety should always come first. Here are some practical tips for getting the most out of your Pikler Triangle and creating a secure play environment:
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Supervise at all times: It goes without saying, but never leave your child unattended while they’re using a Pikler Triangle. You’ll need to be on hand to help if your little one gets stuck or takes a tumble.
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Place it on a soft surface: Set your climbing frame on a carpet or rug to create a soft landing spot in case of falls and prevent the structure from slipping. You could even add an extra soft layer using foam pads or gym mats.
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Leave plenty of space: Keep the area around the triangle clear so your child doesn’t fall onto furniture or hard surfaces.
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Check for wear and tear: Wooden toys can loosen or splinter over time. Inspect regularly and tighten any screws if needed.
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Start slow: Pikler Triangles are designed to encourage intuitive climbing. Let your child explore the frame at their own pace. Don’t push them to climb to the top or tackle obstacles they’re not ready for – confidence comes with time.
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Dress appropriately: Bare feet are best for traction. Avoid slippery pyjamas or onesies with feet.
With a high-quality frame and these safety tips, your little one will be climbing confidently and enjoying the benefits of a Pikler Triangle in no time!
The benefits of a Pikler Triangle for toddlers
Pikler Triangles do more than just keep little ones entertained. Designed by esteemed paediatrician Emmi Pikler, these toys offer a whole range of benefits for children’s development. A Pikler Triangle improves:
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Gross motor skills: Climbing, crawling and pulling up all help strengthen muscles and improve coordination and balance.
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Physical activity: Pikler Triangles help to encourage physical activity in kids from a young age, building healthy habits they’ll carry through childhood.
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Confidence and independence: Children feel proud when they master a new movement or reach a new step, and the Pikler Triangle encourages independent discovery.
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Problem-solving: Figuring out how to climb up (and more importantly, down!) is a big mental workout, gently challenging toddlers.
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Imagination: Offering a space for creative roleplay, a Pikler Triangle can become a fort, tunnel, mountain or anything in between.
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Safe risk-taking: Learning to assess and manage physical risks helps build resilience and confidence in a safe setting.
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Muscle memory: Kids will begin to memorise movements and sequences, meaning their muscle memory will develop effectively.
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Focus: Pikler Triangles instil an awareness of cause and effect, prompting children to focus on the task at hand and plan their movements.
The benefits of Pikler Triangles for kids are countless, and for parents? It can mean a few precious minutes with a hot cup of tea while you sit back, watch, and relax. These unique climbing frames are a developmental powerhouse!
Pikler Triangles and more on Outdoor Toys
At Outdoor Toys, we know how important it is to find play equipment that’s fun, safe and supports your child’s development. Our Pikler-style climbing frames tick every box!
Rebo’s Pikler Triangles are made from strong, durable wood and finished with child-safe, non-toxic laminate. Built to grow with your child, these clever frames are compatible with add-on attachments like climbing ramps and climbing ladders for fun that never stops!
Discover best-sellers like the Rebo Pikler Style Climbing Cube and Ramp and the Rebo Montessori Pikler Style Climbing Triangle and Ramp. Explore folding styles like the Rebo Pikler Style Climbing Arch or get them creating as they climb with the Montessori Pikler Style Drawing Set.
Whether you’re shopping for your first baby climbing frame or looking to expand your toddler’s play paradise, we’ve got options for every age and space. Then, when they’re ready to step it up a notch, discover our outdoor climbing frames for kids aged four and over and other garden toys like swings and trampolines.
FAQs
What ages are Pikler Triangles for?
Most are suitable for kids from around 6 months up to five years old. They offer a range of ways to play and let your child explore intuitively, making them an investment that will grow with your child. Always check the age and weight recommendations for your specific frame.
Can I use a Pikler Triangle outdoors?
Most Pikler Triangles are designed for indoor use. However, that’s not to say you can’t take them outside! If you do, make sure the weather is dry and avoid placing them on hard, uneven, or slippery ground.
