Choosing a climbing frame should be child’s play, but there’s more to this than meets the eye! With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to feel like you’re dangling from the top without a safety net.
It might be tempting to think that bigger is better and choose an extravagant frame with all the bells and whistles. However, the best climbing frame is the one that entertains your child and challenges them just enough to build confidence – not bruises!
In this guide, we share what to look for when choosing a frame by age and why, then highlight our favourite climbing frames for each age group. Plus, we’ll explore the other factors to consider before you check out and run through some climbing frame safety tips for all ages.
Ready to climb to the top of that ‘Best Parent Ever’ podium? Keep reading!
Why buying an age-appropriate climbing frame is important
We get it: that massive adventure set with the monkey bars, cargo net and 10ft slide looks incredible. But could your two-year-old even use it? And would it be safe? Probably not.
The benefits of climbing frames for kids are countless, including encouraging physical activity and reducing screen time. However, it’s essential to choose an age-appropriate model to ensure:
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Safety: Fewer bumps and tumbles from advanced features or falls from too-high heights
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Confidence: Your child will feel more comfortable using an age-appropriate climbing frame, so they’ll use it independently with confidence
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Longevity: A climbing frame that suits your child’s current age and ability is good, but one that will keep them entertained for years to come is better
Basically, picking the right frame now saves a lot of “Muuuuum, I can’t reach!” and “Daaaaad, I hurt my knee!” down the line.
The best climbing frames for each age group
Kids of different ages tend to have different skills and abilities, so the best models for each vary. In this section, we’ll explain which climbing frames are best for which age group and why. Plus, we’ll show you some of our favourite styles from quality brands like Rebo and PolarPlay.
Baby climbing frames
Babies are just at the beginning of their developmental journey. At this stage, their play is all about exploration, not height or complexity, so opt for climbing frames that feed their curiosity as they learn to crawl and stand.
Look for baby climbing frames that:
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Have rounded edges and are made from safe materials
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Help develop motor skills
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Encourage hands-on learning
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Have modular designs
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Use indoor-friendly materials (to make supervision easier)
The best baby climbing frames
Tent to fit Rebo Montessori Pikler Style Triangle
Rebo Montessori Pikler Style Climbing Cube
Rebo Montessori Pikler Style Baby Gym
Climbing frames for 2-3 year olds
The toddler years are where climbing becomes really fun. Two-year-olds and three-year-olds will be keen to test their balance, their boundaries, and, most of all, your patience! At this age, they’ll be eager to tackle all sorts of climbing challenges, from furniture to stair gates, as they gain confidence in risk-taking.
Keep an eye out for garden toys with:
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Low platforms
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Gentle ramps and ladders
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Easy-to-grip bars and rails
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Small slides
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A range of ways to play
The best climbing frames for 2-3 year olds
Rebo Montessori Pikler Style Climbing Cube with Ladder Arch & Ramp
Rebo Montessori Pikler Style Climbing Arch & Ramp
Rebo Montessori Pikler Style Foldable Wooden Slide
Climbing frames for 3-6 year olds
Now we’re into the golden age of climbing. Four-year-olds, five-year-olds, and six-year-olds will have started to develop stronger motor skills and a wild imagination to match. One minute, the frame is a pirate ship; the next, a princess tower. Their play becomes more social, too, so toys that encourage sharing, teamwork, and taking turns are a bonus!
Look for climbing frames with:
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Slightly higher platforms
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Easy-to-master features like ladders
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Swings and slides for developing motor skills
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Pretend play spaces like lookout towers and playhouses
The best climbing frames for 3-6 year olds
PolarPlay Balcony Tower Kids Wooden Climbing Frame and Swing
Rebo Modular Wooden Climbing Frame Adventure Playset - M21 with Ramp & Den
Rebo Extended Tower Wooden Climbing Frame with Swings & Slide
PolarPlay Balcony Tower Kids Wooden Climbing Frame
Climbing frames for older children
Got a seven-year-old who’s outgrown the baby stuff? Or a nine-year-old who swears they’re too cool for climbing…until they see a zip line! Older kids still love active, outdoor play; they just need a bigger challenge to stay engaged.
Kids aged seven and up will have well-developed strength, balance, and coordination, meaning they’ll be up to tougher challenges. The way they play socially might shift from imaginative role play to friendly competition with siblings or friends. Look for:
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Taller towers
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Challenging features like climbing walls, monkey bars, and gym rings
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Multiple routes and access points for groups of kids
The best climbing frames for older children
Rebo Adventure Wooden Climbing Frame with Monkey Bar, Swings & Slide
Rebo Modular Wooden Climbing Frame Playset - M27 Double Swing, Monkey Bars & Den
PolarPlay Tower Kids Wooden Climbing Frame - Climb & Swing
Other considerations for buying climbing frames
Age isn’t the only factor to consider when shopping for a shiny new climbing frame. Before you check out, here are a few extra things to keep in mind:
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Space
If you have a huge garden, congrats! You’ll probably have space for a huge frame like the Rebo Double Tower Climbing Frame with Flexible Bridge, Swing & Slide. However, the best climbing frames for small gardens are narrower models like the Rebo Adventure Wooden Climbing Frame, Swing Set, and Slide or compact toys like the Rebo Ninja Climbing Cube.
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Planning permission
Yes, we’re serious! Climbing frames can be classed as ‘outbuildings’, so planning permission guidelines may apply. You’re unlikely to be penalised for most playsets, but it’s a good idea to check with your neighbours and local authority just in case. For a full rundown of the rules, read our guide: Do You Need Planning Permission for a Climbing Frame?
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Ability
While kids often have similar abilities to peers their age, some children may develop faster than others. Carefully consider whether your child has the physical skills to tackle your chosen frame to avoid disappointment.
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Assembly
Most climbing frames come with detailed instructions and equipment for simple (if time-consuming!) at-home assembly. However, if flat-pack furniture isn’t your strong suit, you might need a friend or a professional installer to help out with trickier structures. It’s also worth checking the product description to determine whether additional tools, like screwdrivers or hammers, are required.
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Longevity
Choosing a frame your child loves now is good, but choosing one they’ll keep using for years is far better! Look for options that will grow with your child. Climbing frames which are safe for younger children but have features to entertain older children are perfect. And don’t sleep on climbing frame accessories! Add-ons like trapeze bars and climbing ropes can breathe new life into a playset your child is beginning to tire of.
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Value-for-money
A climbing frame is a big investment, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Choose a quality frame from a trusted manufacturer that uses durable materials. Rebo and PolarPlay are excellent choices. Get the most out of your purchase by maintaining it, preparing your climbing frame for winter and securing the climbing frame correctly.
Climbing frame safety for all ages
You can’t wrap your child up in bubble wrap (though some days, we wish we could)! But you can make sure their climbing frame is a safe space to stretch their skills with minimal cuts and bruises.
Keep kids safe on climbing frames by:
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Supervising at all times
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Setting up your frame according to instructions
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Teaching clear climbing frame rules
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Maintaining your frame regularly and well
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Installing on soft ground
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Using protective bark or rubber matting
Climbing frames and more for all ages on Outdoor Toys
Ready to take your garden to new heights? Choose Outdoor Toys for all your climbing frame needs!
From baby climbing frames for little wobblers to climbing frames with slides and swings for the growing monkey and climbing frames with monkey bars and rock walls for the experienced clamberer, we’ve got you covered!
With safe designs, durable materials, and stylish colourways, our climbing frame collection is second to none. And that’s not all! Check out our playhouses, swings, trampolines, swimming pools, and ride on toys to get your little one moving in all sorts of ways.
With fast, free delivery on all orders over £50, there’s never been a better time to scale up the fun!
FAQs
What age group are climbing frames for?
Climbing frames aren’t for any one age group – there’s something out there for every age and stage. From baby climbing frames for crawling tots to multi-level fortresses with rock walls for tween daredevils, climbing frames can suit children from 6 months right through to 12 years and beyond (depending on the model). Always check the manufacturer’s recommended age range – it’s there for a reason!
When can babies use climbing frames?
If your baby is crawling, cruising or pulling themselves up, they might be ready for their very first climbing adventure – but don’t expect them to tackle a ninja line course just yet! Babies around 6 months can benefit from small structures that help them safely build muscle and coordination.
Are climbing walls safe?
Yes, if they’re designed for kids and used correctly, climbing walls can be super safe and tons of fun. Just make sure the wall is age- and height-appropriate, the handholds are secure and grippy, there’s a soft landing surface underneath, and kids are supervised at all times.