Kids have a ton of energy! Finding the perfect activity for your kids of at any age can be hard. Finding an activity that also fits into your family’s schedule can be even harder.
Climbing aids in children’s mental and physical development, and has been shown to improve creativity, memory, and critical thinking abilities says, Ben Silverman. There are many other benefits that come along with climbing and that’s why it makes for the perfect activity for your kids!
1. Climbing teaches discipline and focus in young kids
Climbing is an excellent way to impart the basics of discipline because it requires focus and discipline to succeed. Self-discipline and focus are two of the greatest traits you could have, especially when applying for a job or even just having focus enough to sit down and finish their multiplication table homework. Self-discipline and focus cannot always be something that is taught, but if your child starts climbing at a young age, they are bound to learn this skill set all on their own. Laser focus on the task at hand and the discipline to see it through is thrust on them from the very moment they plant their first foothold. Beginning this skillset on the wall will transfer into the real world and as they grow older.
2. Plain and Simple: Climbing is fun
Most young children who try climbing are natural climbers. They have flexible bodies, and high strength-to-weight ratio means that this activity comes easily to most children, even if team sports aren’t their thing. 
They will have fun trying it once they get over their fear of heights and Mom and dad can also sit back and relax knowing their child is safely fastened into a harness, resulting in fun for all! Here at First Ascent, all kid’s classes are structured to develop children’s balance, strength, coordination, strategy and confidence.
Along with fun, this sport is affordable for a family to make a day of it!
3. Problem Solving IRL
Rock climbing is more than just trying to make it up the wall with tough routes, but deciding on which route will successfully get you to the top. 
Often times, you have to stop mid-way through a route because you will get stuck and not sure how to move forward. If your kid gets stuck at one point, he or she will figure out a way to get ahead, which will help improve brain function and hence enhance his ability to solve problems. Out on the crag, it’s a constant real-life, real-time lesson in thinking for yourself, reacting quickly, and learning immediately what the consequences are of your decisions.
4. Developing Social Skills and Communication
When kids climb together, they are using the same social and cooperative skills that they will use with friends, in school, and at work later in life. Cooperation builds trust, and trust is at the center of every friendship. 
Rock climbing is a social sport and climbers often talk about different routes, share suggestions to conquer said route, and offer encouragement. Depending on your child’s age, they may begin to get certified with lead rope or top rope, which in either case, you need to find a climbing buddy and communication effectively during the climb. You may have to go out of your comfort zone to open up and find a buddy or learn to speak up so your partner can hear you from the top.
Your child will learn how important communication is and waiting your turn!
Through climbing, youth climbers at First Ascent develop more than just their ability to defy gravity: they cultivate confidence, courage, problem-solving, physical and mental strength, and positive relationships with their peers. Best of all, our expert climbing instructors help kids develop these important character traits and skills while having an absolute blast!
Check out our First Ascent Youth programs and let’s climb!