Climbing up the slide isn't wrong it's play and not just play

If you’ve ever been at the playground, you’ve probably seen children attempting to climb up the slide instead of sliding down. If your local and ever seen me and the chimps at a local park you'll have definitely seen it. Although most trips I see a family or a group with a child embarking on this epic learning to be met with an adult in sheer frustration heard shouting “slides are for sliding down, not climbing up!” But before we redirect them, it’s worth pausing to think: what is the child gaining from this challenge?

From an early years perspective, climbing up a slide can actually offer huge developmental benefits.

💪 Physical Development

• Strength & Coordination: Pulling themselves upwards works a wide range of muscles in their arms, legs, and core.

• Balance & Motor Planning: Children must plan foot and hand placement while shifting their weight — important skills for physical confidence.

• Gross Motor Confidence: Conquering a steep surface builds resilience and a sense of achievement.

🧠 Problem-Solving & Risk Management

• Judging Risk: Children learn to assess whether they can make it to the top, or if they need to try a different approach.

• Persistence & Resilience: It’s not always easy to climb a smooth slope — they may slip and try again, building perseverance.

• Spatial Awareness: Working out how their body moves against gravity deepens their understanding of space and movement.

🌱 Social & Emotional Growth

• Confidence Boost: Reaching the top feels like a victory, strengthening self-esteem.

• Turn-Taking & Negotiation: In busy parks, children often have to negotiate with others who want to slide down, practicing important social skills.

• Creative Play: A slide becomes more than a one-way ride — it turns into a mountain, a challenge, or part of a bigger imaginative game.

👀 Things for Adults to Consider

Of course, safety and respect for others are key. Some children may feel anxious if someone is climbing up while they want to slide down. As adults, we can:

• Supervise closely and encourage children to check if it’s safe before climbing.

• Allow climbing during quieter times, when the slide isn’t busy.

• Support children by spotting them if needed, especially younger ones.

✅ The Takeaway

Climbing up a slide isn’t “wrong play” — it’s an opportunity for physical, cognitive, and social growth. With sensitive supervision and awareness of others, it can be a valuable part of children’s play experience.

So next time you see a child tackling the slide from the “wrong” direction, remember: they’re not just climbing, they’re learning.