COFACE member Bewegigshüsli in Switzerland recently put climbing at the centre of one of its playgroup activities, giving young children the opportunity to climb, move and test their abilities in a safe and supportive environment.
For the children taking part, the activity was about much more than simply getting from the ground to the top. As they climbed higher, further and for as long as they could, they were also practising coordination, balance and spatial awareness.
Climbing can also provide valuable opportunities for children to develop confidence and independence. Reaching a new level or completing a challenge can give children a strong sense of achievement and encourage them to think: “I can do it myself!”
The activity also allowed the children to channel their natural need for movement and explore their physical limits. By providing a safe setting in which they can challenge themselves, Bewegigshüsli encourages children to discover what their bodies can do while having fun.
Activities such as this show how everyday movement can become an opportunity for learning and development in early childhood. For the children at Bewegigshüsli, a climbing session was not only a chance to get active, but also to build skills, confidence and a sense of achievement.
Read more about Bewegigshüsli and their work here.
