Toddlers love to climb! In fact, toddlers are hard-wired to move their bodies at every opportunity. They are gaining command of their limbs, finding their sense of balance, and gaining more stability. Below find the top toddler climbing toys. I chose these specifically with toddlers in mind, but many of them can be used before and after toddler years, and with siblings or friends! Note that each of these toys require adult supervision.
Specifically, I looked for toddler climbing toys that are:
- Durable (who needs a toddler toy that’s going to break 15 minutes in?)
- Easy to clean (unless you’ve got lots of free time to clean, in which case…tell me your secrets!)
- Sturdy (let’s embrace toddler’s ability to test limits!)
Table of Contents
TL;DR: Top 5 Toddler Climbing Toys!
Why it's wonderful
- This climber is a toddler's dream! It comes with a rock wall, slide, two steering wheels, a ladder, and an open area underneath that can be used as a hideout, fort, sandbox, or toy storage area!
- This beautiful set is a modern twist on a Pickler triangle challenge set. It comes with all three pieces needed to set up a toddler's paradise: a ramp, rainbow climber, and triangle. The triangle can be rotated and used to promote three different climbing skills.
- This ingenious transformable Pickler triangle can be modified to use 20 different ways! Plus, it folds flat for storage.
- These 3 Pickler crawl boxes can be used as a set or individually. Think that your kid won't like playing with just a plain 'ol box? You may be surprised!
- Create your very own toddler obstacle course with this set.These large foam pieces can be assembled many different ways for loads of fun!
Best toddler climbing toys for outdoors
These toddler climbing toys are made to be outdoors- they will stand up to the elements. They can be used in your backyard, front yard, or perhaps even at grandparents’ houses.
Pros
- Can fit two small children comfortably on top (holds up to 60 lbs).
- Easy to clean- just wipe off.
- Made to hold up to the elements outdoors.
Cons
- Great for children from when they begin to walk through age 3, but after that it may not be able to hold their attention for long.
This climber is a toddler’s dream! It comes with a rock wall, slide, two steering wheels, a ladder, and an open area underneath that can be used as a hideout, fort, sandbox, or toy storage area!
Pros
- Comes with many different areas-- rock wall, slide, steering wheels, ladder, and storage ares.
- Perfect for siblings and mixed age groups! Recommended for children 2-10 years old.
- Easy to clean- just wipe off.
- Made to stay outside in the elements.
- Can be used for many years!
Cons
- Large size makes it difficult to move.
- The holes that it comes with aren't quite right. Many reviewers shared that they made the holes again with a drill before screwing in the hardware.
This contraption is sprinkler meets kiddie pool. You can adjust the height of the water being sprayed by decreasing or increasing the pressure of your hose. Toddlers can exercise their climbing muscles when they are getting into and out of this pool. Plus, splashing is great gross motor practice, too!
Pros
- Great for warm weather.
- Can be used for children 1-8 years old.
- Comes with patches in case of leaks (one reviewer recommended putting a tarp underneath during use).
- Big enough for adults to sit in it, too, while they supervise.
Cons
- Takes about 5-8 minutes for the "sprinkler" part to begin working once you attach the hose.
Best toddler climbing toys for indoors
These toddler climbing toys are made for indoor play! Many of these could technically be used in your yard during dry summer months, but shouldn’t be stored outside or used when it’s wet.
This ball pit set includes two tunnels, dart balls, and two separate areas for ball pits, and a mini “basketball” hoop!
Pros
- Has a variety of chambers that highlight different gross motor skills!
- Folds flat for storage.
- Can be used for mixed-age siblings.
This Waldorf Rocker was made with all of the things toddlers love in mind. It can be used as a rocker, or it can be turned over to be used as a “bridge” for children to climb over. This one has a piece that you can move to make a seat on the inside. This piece is perfect for imaginative play! It can be a pretend boat, carrying children to a far away place. It can be a tunnel for cars. The possibilities are endless.
Pros
- Multi-use toy that promots a variety of gross motor skills and muscles.
- Wonderful for imaginative play.
- Available in two colors-- birch and grey rainbow.
- Available in two sizes.
Cons
- None noted.
These large foam pieces can be assembled many different ways for loads of fun!
Pros
- Textured, anti-slip bottom.
- Can be arranged many different ways.
- Easy to clean- just wipe with soap and water.
- Available in 3 different colors.
Cons
- Size could make it difficult to store when not in use.
This indoor slide is sturdy and easy to assemble. Plus, it comes with a basketball hoop and a small ball for added fun!
Pros
- Sturdy.
- Easy to assemble.
- Easy to clean.
- Includes basketball hoop, which increases it's longevity.
- Has a "safety bottom," where it eases into a slope so children don't hit their tailbone on their way down.
- Skid-protection on ladder.
- 120lb weight limit.
Cons
- Not made for outdoor use.
This play set has many stations and provides many options for children 6 months to 2.5 or 3 years old to exercise their gross motor muscles.
Pros
- This play set has a mailbox, telescope, windows that open, mini slide, door, and also multiple fine-motor stations throughout.
- It can be arranged in a few different configurations.
- Easy to clean- just wipe off!
Cons
- Fairly small-- not made for children over the age of 3.
- One station requires 3 AAA batteries, but you could skip them (and that section will just be quiet).
This beautiful set is a modern twist on a Pickler triangle challenge set. It comes with all three pieces needed to set up a toddler’s paradise: a ramp, rainbow climber, and triangle. The triangle can be rotated and used to promote three different climbing skills.
Pros
- Possible to rearrange it into many different challenges!
- Pieces can be used individually or together.
- Made of Baltic birch plywood for durability.
- Easy to assemble.
Cons
- Difficult to store without taking it apart.
This ingenious transformable Pickler triangle can be modified to use 20 different ways! There are many buying options, so you can get the arrangements you want!
Pros
- Can use in 20 differrent ways!
- Folds for compact storage.
- No assembly required.
- Recommended for use up to 110lbs.
Cons
- Takes a while to make-- order ahead!
Forget 24 Hour Fitness…this toddler gym can be open in your house all day, every day! It comes with a variety of obstacles that allow your kiddo to swing, climb, and slide!
Pros
- Includes many obstacles!
- Made from high-quality polished aspen wood and painted with baby-proof eco wax.
- Smells like honey! (Since it's coated in beeswax)
- Contains no harsh chemicals.
- Recommended ages: 6 months through age 8.
- Ramp can be detached and triangle can be folded for storage!
- Gym is CE marked, tested and compliant with the European Union Harmonized Standards for Toy Safety that are internationally accepted (Directive 2009/48 / EC).
Cons
- Assembly required.
This adorable butterfly climber is soft and easy to clean!
Pros
- Soft material is great for emergent and early walkers!
- Has stairs and a small ramp that children can use as a slide.
- Easy to clean.
- No assembly required.
Cons
- Suitable from when a child is crawling through age 3 or so.
These 3 Pickler crawl boxes can be used as a set or individually. Think that your kid won’t like playing with just a plain ‘ol box? You may be surprised! One skeptical reviewer wrote: “I admit I was surprised when my wife wanted to buy this wooden box for our twins. But they love it. They love crawling through it and popping their heads out of the top. They love dropping every single one of their toys down the hole over and over again. They spend way more time playing with it then I imagined they would. Once they go to bed it becomes a nice little side table next to the sofa. Really solid piece of furniture for both me and the kids!”
Pros
- Versitile.
- Made from sturdy birch wood.
- Available in different configurations.
- 2 sizes available.
Cons
- Could tip with rougher play as children get older.
This fabulous set comes with three top Montessori structures included: Pickler ramp, Pickler arch, and the Pickler triangle. The ramp is double sided– it is smooth on one side and rock-wall like handles on the other. The ramp cam be adjusted to be perched on any bar.
Pros
- The triangle folds flat for storage.
- Great for siblings or multiple children! Maximum load: approximately 130lbs.
- Made of birch wood, which is strong, safe, and pliable.
- Recommended for children ages 8 months through 8 years old.
Cons
- While it can be used outside, it should be stored inside. The wood will warp if it gets wet.
- Requires assembly.
Best toddler climbing toys that can be used inside OR outside
These toddler climbing toys are rated for indoor or outdoor use. Many of them are handmade from Etsy sellers, and you can indicate if you would like to use it as an outdoor toy when you purchase it.
This set comes with 12 stepping stones. They are a variety of heights and can be arranged in limitless ways! These are completely open-ended…give them to your child and see what they come up with! Perhaps they’ll set them up and pretend they are helping them step over hot lava. Perhaps they’ll be a rock bridge to a faraway kingdom. The possibilities are endless. And the best part is: they promote gross motor coordination, balance, depth perception, and body awareness.
Note: they are portable (you don’t permanently attach them to the ground), and so they can be used outside. However, they should be stored inside when not in use.
Pros
- Great for siblings!
- Portable and easy to store.
- Have anti-slip, rubber feet on the bottom of each one.
Cons
- One reviewer noted that these can come out, so it could be a good idea to glue them in if you are concerned about them being a choking hazard.
This tower is a great way for young children to practice using their big joints and muscles!
Pros
- Can be used inside or outside.
- Comes with thorough instructions for assembly.
- Sturdy enough for siblings to use together! Age range approximately 3-6 years old.
Cons
- Challenging to disassemble.
- Does not come with flat-head screwdriver, but reviewers noted that using one makes assembly much easier.
- Takes two people to assemble.
This play structure can turn any indoor or outdoor space into an adventure! It includes a ladder, pirate flag, and two decks for playing.
Pros
- Promotes imaginative play!
- Can be used indoors or outdoors.
- Easy to clean- just wipe off.
- Easy to assemble.
- Can be used by multiple children at once-- great for siblings!
Cons
- Indoors, this does best on carpet. On hardwood or tile, it will shift around easily.
Magic Mom Hack
If you’re feeling overwhelmed (#momlife), try reframing the “Terrible Twos” as the “Terrific Twos”!
And, to learn more about the development of kiddos at this age, check out this post for a closer look at the wants and needs of 2(ish) year olds.
This two-sided toy can be used as a boat or a climbing structure!
Pros
- Fits up to 4 children, up to 240 lbs.
- Can be used inside or outside.
- Easy to clean-- just wipe off.
- Great for imaginative play! Children can pretend it is a bridge to a magical kingdom, sailing away to conquer the open seas, and more!
Cons
- The manufacturer states that it can hold four 60lb children. However, reviewers note that 4 children that size don't fit comfortably. The "boat" side is better for older infants through preschoolers- though it can be used as stairs for children as they get older!
This caterpillar can be used for children from when they start crawling through 8 years old! When they are younger, they can use it to pull up and crawl through. When they are out of their toddler years, they’ll likely be ready to climb on the top, as well! It activates the enclosure schema and can lead to endless creative play!
Pros
- Easy to assemble.
- Easy to clean- just use soap and water.
- You can buy extension parts to make it longer.
- The segments and feet can be rearranged!
Cons
- More expensive than other similar products, but this one does not have the problem that others do of the screws coming undone regularly.
This toy will turn your space into an amusement park! Children can ride in the car and go down the ramp, push the car on the ground, or climb on the ramp without the car!
Pros
- This can be used in three different ways, so your child will likely get a lot of use out of it! Can be a ramp (children can roll cars or balls down it), a rollercoaster ride, or the car can be pushed separately on the ground.
- Many reviewers noted that this became the #1 toy used in their home.
- Can be used inside or outside.
- Easy to clean.
- Easy to assemble.
- Encourages turn-taking!
Cons
- Requires a lot of space.
- Young children especially will need lots of adult supervision for this toy.
- Uses 2 AA batteries.
Magic Mom Hack
Active days make for easier bed times! Creating opportunities for movement and play can help kids spend their (seemingly unlimited) energy.
For more ideas about how to promote active play, check out this post on the best outdoor toys for kids.
This is a Pickler triangle gone wild! It has many ladders, a black board, ropes, slide and a rock wall attachment!
Pros
- Many ways to play!
- Can be used inside or outside-- but you must tell the seller if you are going to use it outdoors, so they can treat the wood accordingly.
- Great for siblings or friends.
- Made entirely of wood. Each surface is sanded and painted with 3 layers of paing so there are no splinters.
- Recommended for children from when they can pull up through age 4.
- Customizable colors!
Cons
- Large to store.
Calling all toddlers! This MASSIVE play set has many ways to play.
Pros
- Many ways to play! It includes: wooden ladder, swing, slide, slide platform, climbing net, monkey bars, and wooden gymnastic rings.
- Can be made for indoor or outdoor use.
- Made from high-quality pine cembra and is perfectly polished! This designer only uses natural and hypoallergenic wood.
- Customizable-- you can add other challenges to this set, including a rope ladder, bungee, climbing wall and more.
- Wonderful for siblings and friends. Rated to hold approximately 175lbs.
- Suitable for children 6 months through age 10.
- Easy to assemble-- and this seller has a video instructions in addition to the hard copy.
Cons
- These are handmade, and take a while to arrive once you place your order. However, this seller is highly-rated for customer service and responsiveness.
This large climber is perfect for rainy days indoors, or a a backyard!
Pros
- Many ways to play! Includes tunnels underneath, a slide, latters, and a top "fort" area."
- Can be used inside our outside.
- Large size makes it easy to share with siblings or visiting friends.
- Easy to clean- just wipe off.
- Quick assembly.
- Sturdy, but lightweight enough that you can move it easily (to mow the grass underneath it, perhaps).
Cons
- Size makes this one suitable for larger spaces.
This slide is sturdy and easy to assemble!
Pros
- This slide is longer than other ones for this age group on the market!
- Sturdy.
- Easy to assemble.
- Comes in two colors: pink and "elephant beige" (grey-ish).
Turn your yard, playroom, or even living room into a castle! This slide comes with an anti-slip ladder, telescope, tunnel, and basketball hoop.
Pros
- Strong base at the bottom of slide to keep it from moving or shaking.
- Can be used many ways! Includes ladder, slide, telescope, and basketball hoop.
- Can be used inside or outside.
- Easy to clean- just wipe off.
- Easy to assemble.
Cons
- Does not come with basketball, but one can be purchased separately by clicking here.
- Only one or two children fit comfortably on the top part at a time.
Toddler climbing toys FAQs
What are the benefits of climbing toys for toddlers?
This can be a tricky age for us (the parents). Toddlers aren’t quite steady on their feet, but they’re seeking out independence for the first time. Toddler climbing toys such as the ones above can help children move their bodies and explore their own limits (when safe). Plus, they’re a great way for kiddos to spend their energy. Climbing toys = better sleep, in my experience.
What should I look for when picking out a toddler climbing toy for my toddler?
This depends a lot on your lifestyle and home. In general, I recommend taking the following into consideration to choose one that will work the best for you and your family:
- How much space does it take up when it’s in use?
- Do I need storage space for it long-term?
- How long will my child be able to use it?
- Can it be used with older or younger siblings?
Considerations about toddler climbing toys:
- You’ll need to make sure it has the right surface underneath it. These toys encourage climbing, so you should put something something soft underneath it. We opted for these 1 inch thick mats. If it’s inside, this could look like foam mats or carpet. If it’s outside, this could look like grass. Check the manufacturers instructions for more information.
- Many of these are made for children at a range of ages and weight limits. Take a look at the manufacturers instructions to see if each play-thing is right for your family.
- Many of these require some assembly. I know that’s a deal breaker for some folks. But the good news is– many of these have pretty minimal assembly.
Found a toddler climbing toy that you absolutely love? Find @momjeanmagic on Facebook or Instagram and share a photo!
Happy !
Check these out next
Potty training essentials: for home and on-the-go
No matter what method or tactic you take for potty training, these potty training essentials can help make your journey just a little bit easier (read: cleaner and more enjoyable all around).
Wonderful non-toy gifts for kids, 2020 edition
There is a focus now on consumerism during the holidays, but non-toy gifts can help you celebrate the holidays and birthdays and promote the spirit of giving…without filling up your house with toys that won’t get used much.
The Most Adorable Family Halloween Costumes of 2020
There are only a few years where our kiddos will permit us to rope them into (adorable) family costumes, so we have to take advantage of that while we can. There are an infinite number of costumes on the market for kids, but many of them need to be hand washed.
Raise your hand if you’ve got time to hand wash costumes.
The best scooter for kids (and adults!)
Scooters are great ways to get kids exercising outside. There are so many on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Find the best scooter for your kids here.
The best scooter for toddlers- safety first.
There are a lot of scooters on the market. Many of them have been found to be unsafe, or don’t last long. I scoured the internet for the best scooter for toddlers when my son was ready to ride one.
The best doctor toys for kids
There are some wonderful doctor toys for kids on the market now that can help you bring a doctor’s office right into your home. These toys can help children gain some control by allowing them to take a step into the driver’s seat, so to speak. Plus, they can practice empathy and creativity as well.
