Climbing the 'Pretend Tree'

Climbing the 'Pretend Tree'

Motor activity play that practices climbing skills.

  • 1-5 years
  • Group size: 1+
  • Duration: 15 min
  • Alternative physical activities
  • Mountains, forests and fields
  • Gym / Sports hall
  • Indoor
  • Snow / ice
  • Open space
  • Gym Mat

An adult (with a body that can withstand being climbed on) stands like a 'climbing tree,' with feet firmly planted on the ground. Knees should be slightly bent, and feet a little apart, so that the 'tree' stands stably.

The child starts by climbing onto the adult's back. From there, the child should try to climb around the 'tree' without touching the floor, by holding on and clinging as best as possible to the adult. When the child has made it all the way around, or climbed for a while, another child can have a turn.

The 'tree' can help with its hands if it becomes difficult to get around.

Also try letting the child climb up to the 'top of the tree,' meaning onto the shoulders. The children should then hold the adult's hands. Once the child has their feet firmly placed on the shoulders, the adult can hold tightly around the ankles to ensure balance. The child can also sit for a short while on the 'top of the tree' (on the shoulders).

If the adult is on all fours, it's a 'fallen tree.' The children must then climb up by the 'root' (legs) to get onto the 'trunk' (back). If they can stand steadily there, they can try to walk along the 'trunk' and jump down when they reach the shoulders.