8 Best Toddler Climbing Toys for Indoor and Outdoor Play
In a nutshell:
Based on expert interviews and feedback from parents in The Bump community, we chose the Best Choice Products 5-Piece Climb & Crawl Structure Playset as the overall best toddler climbing toy. This set stood out due to its highly durable (yet soft, cushioned) foam construction, its easily adaptable design and how engaging it is for various ages and siblings.
One thing’s for sure: Toddlers have no shortage of energy. Thankfully, toddler climbing toys can help them burn some of it off while also supporting developmental milestones. According to Jana Sarno, BCBA, a board-certified behavior analyst, “climbing toys can provide a variety of benefits for growing babies and toddlers, including both fine and gross motor skills.” As an example, she explains, “a climbing toy may give your baby the opportunity to work on early gross motor skills such as sitting up, sitting up unassisted and pulling themselves to stand.”
Climbing toys for toddlers come in all shapes and sizes, so there are plenty of options to browse. While many can be used indoors or outdoors, you might want to consider adding a small-scale toddler indoor climbing toy to your home—especially if you want to keep your tot from scaling the furniture. Here, find our favorite toddler climbers, as recommended by parents from The Bump community.
For more climbing toys, check out our articles on Pikler triangles and nugget couch dupes.
To help you find the best toddler climber for your family, we conducted extensive market research to identify the most popular and reliable options available. From there:
- We researched what was being said about toddler climbing toys in The Bump community forums to learn how families feel about the most popular brands and designs on the market. For further insights, we also asked our staff to share their firsthand experiences with toddler climbers.
- We interviewed a behavior analyst, a pediatric occupational therapist and a pediatrician to learn what features to look for in toddler climbing toys. Plus, they offered advice on how to safely use these playsets.
- To understand how these toddler climbing sets have worked for families nationwide, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews.
- We looked at a wide range of playsets and considered several factors—like overall size, material and price point—when choosing which options to feature in our article.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.
Overall best toddler climbing toy
- 5-piece set offers endless play opportunities
- Great for siblings, according to The Bump community
- Highly durable yet cushioned material
- Easy to wipe clean
- Some parents wish the set was bigger
According to Abby Carner, a pediatric occupational therapist, foam climbing blocks for toddlers present a different type of challenge compared to other climbers. “As the foam bends under a child’s weight, children need to learn how to weight shift and balance while climbing,” she explains. As a result, toddler climbing toys made out of foam—just like this one from Best Choice Products—can be used by kids of all ages to promote gross skill development. Kathy, mom of 3-year-old twins, has used this playset in her home for years and wholeheartedly agrees. “Pushing the blocks around with no express purpose was great fun for them at first, and then climbing and pushing them together came later and definitely helped with balance and eventually walking,” she shared.
With this set of toddler climbing foam blocks, you’ll receive five fun shapes that can be stacked and arranged to your kiddo’s liking. Each lightweight piece is made from soft, ASTM-certified foam and has an easy-to-wipe vinyl surface. Kathy highly praises this toddler climbing toy’s durability. “This set has stood up to rough play wonderfully. Its foam and the covering is tough but not rough. [My twins] have scratched it, bit it, stabbed it with toys, etc., and there isn't a single tear or seam ripping after almost 3 years of having the set,” she told us.
If that’s not all, the colorful shapes can also be played with in so many different ways. “Use them to provide some support for kiddos learning how to sit upright or build a complex obstacle course for your older kids who have advanced balance and coordination skills,” suggests Carner. Plus, they’re ideal for sibling playtime. “From early on [my twins] loved to push the pieces together and crawl (and eventually run) over them like an obstacle course,” Kathy told us. “It’s so cute to watch one of them walk along the row of blocks while the other holds their hand and helps them balance!” The bottom line: This indoor climbing toy for toddlers is sure to be a hit in your household for years to come.
Dimensions: 8.5" (L) x 8.5" (W) x 16.3" (H) (small rectangle); 24" (L) x 16.3" (W) x 8.5" (H) (triangle); 16.3" (L) x 16.3" (W) x 8.5" (H) (large rectangle); 8" (L) x 17" (H) (cylinder); 16.3" (L) x 16.3" (W) x 8.3" (H) | Product weight: 15 lbs. | Weight capacity: N/A | Age rating: 1+ years
Our community says:
Our kids turn 4 in January, and this is still a staple in our living room. Whether it's to help build blanket forts or create an obstacle course when the weather keeps us inside, I don't see us getting rid of the set anytime soon! – Kathy S., mom of twins
Best outdoor toddler climbing toy
- Lightweight yet sturdy design
- Great for siblings, according to The Bump community
- UV- and rust-resistant material
- Not suitable for younger toddlers
If you’re looking for an outdoor toddler climbing toy, you can’t go wrong with this classic jungle gym. The brightly colored dome has a wide base to keep your little one stable as they climb to their heart’s content—plus, a tower at the top so they can reach new heights as their motor skills improve. Catherine, mom of three, told us that she’s had this playset for almost four years and it’s still a hit with her little ones. “They've used it to climb and get comfortable reaching and jumping but also turned it into imaginative play as a hideout,” she shared. While it’s not intended for younger toddlers, this climbing tower has a wide age range of 3 to 8 years old, so you can count on getting many years out of this playset.
For a simple setup and long-term stability, the Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars Climbing Tower is made from interlocking plastic tubes and connectors with secure double self-locking springs. This clever design ensures everything stays stable as your kiddo plays. The lightweight plastic material is also built with UV and rust protection, so it can endure all four seasons, rain or shine.
Dimensions: 70" (L) x 66" (W) x 47" (H) | Product weight: 22 lbs. | Weight capacity: 150 lbs. | Age rating: 3 to 8 years
Our community says:
We got the Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars Climbing Tower when my second was born 3.5 years ago, and it still gets used all the time by both kids (and all their friends when they come over to play!) – Catherine M., mom of three
Best toddler climbing toy activity center
- Features built-in activities, like a slide
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Parents say it’s easy to put together
- Some say their kids outgrew it quickly
Sarno is a fan of multipurpose toddler climbing toys like the Step2 Game Time Sports Climber. “Small yet versatile activity structures like this can keep [kids] entertained while developing their coordination,” she told us. Designed for ages two and up, this toddler climber has it all. Your little ones can use the easy-climb stairs to reach the main platform, building their strength as they do so. Then, when they’re up at the top, they can go down the slide, a feature which Sarno appreciates. “Toddler slides give kids the chance to try out different climbing methods and gross motor skills,” she explains. Back down on the ground, your toddler can crawl through this playset’s tunnel or score a slam dunk on the basketball hoop.
Parents from The Bump community say that climbing activity centers like these are a big hit with their little ones, whether they’re playing or relaxing. “We have a climber which we had in the house over the winter and now on the deck. [My daughter] still plays on it every day. She'll even take her snack and sit in it like it's her clubhouse or something,” forum member Kaiterz, shared. Similarly, the Step2 Game Time Sports Climber is sturdy enough for outdoor use but compact enough to be set up inside if you have the space. It’s also suitable for ages 2 to 6, so siblings can join in on the fun too.
Dimensions: 62" (L) x 30.5" (W) x 42.5" (H) | Product weight: 24.5 lbs. | Weight capacity: 60 lbs. | Age rating: 2 to 6 years
Best toddler climbing toy for small spaces
- Unique design offers easy storage
- Features built-in activities, like a tunnel
- Great for younger toddlers
- Some parents say the material is thinner than expected
A common pain point for parents is the amount of space indoor toddler climbing toys take up. If you don’t have much room in your living area or you simply don’t want a structure that will dominate your home, this option from Little Tikes will be a winner. The Easy Store Slide & Explore has a unique design that sets it apart. During playtime, your little one can step and climb, crawl through the attached tunnel and (gently) zoom down the slide. Then, when playtime is over, the base turns into a convenient storage container where the accessories can be placed, and the slide transitions into a lid to keep it all secure.
Though this Little Tikes climber has a small footprint compared to others on the market, it’s packed with fun details that your little one will love exploring. A few highlights include the rotating telescope (with zoom functionality), the spinning steering wheel and the clicking bug toys. This playset is suitable for toddlers of all ages (from 1 to 3 years old) and can be used inside and outside for plenty of play opportunities.
Dimensions: 36" (L) x 18.3" (W) x 17" (H) | Product weight: 16.3 lbs. | Weight capacity: 50 lbs. | Age rating: 1 to 3 years
Best budget-friendly toddler climbing toy
- Relatively affordable price point
- 7-piece set offers endless play opportunities
- Soft, machine-washable covers
- 48 hours needed for the set to expand fully
Toddler climbing toys can come at a high price point. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, the Benarita SoftPark Soft Climber and Foam Sofa is a great choice. The seven-piece set includes a variety of shapes that can be configured into endless combinations for open-ended fun. Parents say their kids love moving the set around to create forts, a comfy seat, obstacle courses and plenty of other imaginative setups in between.
No matter how your child plays with this climber, you can ensure it’ll offer a cushioned base. Each block is made from high-quality foam and fitted with cozy covers, creating a soft space for toddlers to climb and explore safely. The zippered covers are also machine-washable, so you can clean them easily when inevitable spills and messes happen. All in all, if you’re searching for a toddler climbing toy that will spark creativity and independent play without breaking the bank, this is the set for you.
Dimensions: 42" (L) x 17" (W) x 18" (H) | Product weight: 10 lbs. | Weight capacity: N/A | Age rating: 0 to 7 years
Best toddler climbing wall toy
- 2-in-1 design doubles as a playhouse
- Narrow fold for simple storage
- Adjustable rock wall pegs
- Some parents say it’s tricky to assemble
Rock walls are a great way to refine hand-eye coordination skills, as kids have to navigate the hand- and foot-holds as they pull themselves up. That said, a full-size rock wall may be too much for your tot to handle, which is why we like this mini version by Little Tikes. The indoor playset features two sides for climbing, and each has 10 pegs that have stainless steel bolts to ensure handholds are secure. To make playtime more dynamic, parents can move the pegs to different spots on the climbing frame. Plus, the structure can be adjusted to several angles so you can make it wider or more narrow when needed.
The best part about the Little Tikes Campin’ & Climb Wall however is its clever 2-in-1 design. The two rock walls form an A-frame tent that little ones can use as a cozy clubhouse between climbs. Each side features striped curtains made of all-weather fabric so you can count on them to withstand daily wear and tear inside and outside. Then, when your child is playing with this climber for the day, it folds up for straightforward storage.
Dimensions: 38.4 to 53.2" (L) x 27.6" (W) x 35.8 to 41.3" (H) | Product weight: N/A | Weight capacity: 60 lbs. | Age rating: 2 to 6 years
Best toddler climbing arch toy
- Highly transitional, stackable design
- Great for creative play, according to parents
- Suitable for infants and young toddlers
- High price point
Gathre is known for their elevated, engaging playthings that strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and practicality—and their Arc Playset is no exception. The unique toddler climbing toy consists of three earth-toned arches that can be stacked together into a rainbow shape, used upside-down as seesawing seats or arranged to create a dynamic obstacle course. No matter how your toddler chooses to use them, the neutral, modern design won’t be an eyesore in your living space.
Made from a cushy foam interior, the set guarantees a soft landing for curious toddlers as they cruise, wobble and climb. Plus, you’ll appreciate that each piece has a water-resistant, 100- percent vegan leather cover that’s a breeze to keep clean. If it gets grubby, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and you’re good to go. Better yet, this toddler climbing toy has no hard surfaces or sharp corners, making it the perfect addition to a playroom.
Dimensions: 22" (L) x 17" (W) x 42" (H) | Product weight: N/A | Weight capacity: 45 lbs. | Age rating: 9 months to 5 years
Best toddler climbing stones
- Versatile design for open-ended play
- Super lightweight with a high weight capacity
- Ideal for a wide range of age groups
- High price point
Not all toddler climbing toys have to be tall to be fun. Case in point: These stepping stones from Stapelstein. While they may be just a few inches off the ground, they still provide a perfect opportunity for toddlers to hone their gross motor skills. This classic set is a fantastic addition to any playspace. Six “stones” feature different heights, which helps kids learn about spatial relationships and balance. The stackable design also offers the opportunity for open-ended play. Whether your little one wants to hop from stone to stone, turn several of them into a climbing tower or even use them as a fun seat, they can do so with ease.
The brightly colored Stapelstein stepping stones are made from eco-friendly EPP (expandable polypropylene), a material that’s lightweight, durable and non-porous. As a result, they’re stain-repellant and incredibly easy to keep clean with just soap and water. The set weighs less than half a pound, but can hold up to almost 400 pounds, making them a versatile addition to any living space; they can truly be used by almost anyone in the family. (In fact, some parents mention they use them as yoga blocks or as stools to reach high places at home.) And when playtime is done for the day, the nesting design makes them simple to stack and store.
Dimensions: 10.8" (L) x 10.8" (W) x 4.7" (H) (per stone) | Product weight: 0.4 lbs. | Weight capacity: 396 lbs. | Age rating: 1+ years
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
There are a few general qualities you should keep in mind as you browse toddler climbing toys. “My recommendation is to look for climbing toys that are safe, well-made and will grow with your child. If the toy can grow in complexity as your child grows, you’ll have many opportunities to foster learning milestones,” Carner says. Here are few features to keep in mind:
- Age rating. To ensure the climbing toy is appropriate for your child, check the manufacturer’s weight and age guidelines. If you have a household with multiple kiddos or if you’re looking for an option your little one can play with for years to come, opt for one that’s suitable for various ages and stages.
- Stability. Look for climbing toys with stable bases to prevent them from tipping over. Sarno recommends placing the climbing frame on a soft surface, like a carpeted floor or a foam mat, to cushion your tot against potential falls.
- Materials. Go for toddler climbing toys made from durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Common options that parents love include foam, plastic and wood. No matter which your toddler climbing toy is made out of, be sure it’s free of sharp edges.
- Easy-clean surfaces. Moreover, you’ll want a toddler climbing toy that’s straightforward to keep clean. Be sure whatever material you choose can be wiped and sanitized easily.
- Size. Toddler climbing toys take up a lot of space and can be awkward to store. If you’re planning on using one indoors or outdoors and don’t have a lot of room, look for a design that can be folded or put away easily when not in use.
Toddler climbing toys can play an important role in promoting your little one’s physical, emotional and social development. Alexis Phillips-Walker, DO, a pediatrician at Memorial Hermann Medical Group Pediatrics in Atascocita, Texas, adds that “climbing is a great way for toddlers to increase muscle strength. This helps children learn to balance which assists in gross motor development.” For example, as your little one scales a jungle gym, they’ll need to concentrate on where to place their hands and feet and use their body strength to make it to the top. These actions promote hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness, all while giving their muscles a gentle workout. “Climbing frames of various shapes, heights, [and] colors help kids use visual and physical skills to maneuver the structure. This helps in the development of hand-eye coordination which can assist in teaching problem-solving skills as children learn how to get from one point to another,” Phillips-Walker adds.
Climbing toys for toddlers don’t only promote “big” muscles and coordination. “Fine motor skills can also be developed like grabbing, reaching, releasing and holding small items attached to the climbing toys,” Sarno explains. She suggests tying different colored scarves to the rungs of the toy’s ladder. This way, your kiddo can have different sensory experiences with touch while exercising their fine motor skills.
Last but not least, toddler climbing toys are fun for little ones, which Sarno highlights as a huge benefit. According to Sarno, this element of play “is especially important for children who may have developmental delays or other challenges and need a little extra encouragement to learn and practice these skills.”
A few falls and scrapes during playtime are inevitable. However, it’s important to supervise your kids as they play on climbing toys at home, in the backyard or at the playground. “Climbing toys, like a lot of toys, should also be enjoyed with supervision. Avoid leaving your baby or toddler to play on toys alone, even for a short period of time,” Sarno advises.
Phillips-Walker recommends that parents “set clear boundaries on where the child is allowed to climb and where the child is not.” This is especially helpful if you’re using indoor climbing frames. At home, Phillips-Walker suggests that parents create safe, secure environments for their little ones to play in by removing “bookshelves that can fall easily if pulled over, wobbly step stools or sitting stools that a toddler can mistake for a climbing apparatus.”
Moreover, Carner adds that toddler climbers can help little ones learn how to move their bodies based on the environment around them, which she calls motor planning. “Parents can help support motor planning development by giving extended amounts of time for your child to problem-solve their movements, of course, always stepping in if safety becomes a concern,” she says. During playtime, she recommends shifting your language to be more specific when coaching your kiddo. For instance, “instead of saying, ‘be careful,’ try saying, ‘it looks like we may need to use two hands to climb this toy’,” Carner explains.
About the writer:
Emma O’Regan-Reidy is a freelance contributor and former editor for The Bump. She specializes in writing e-commerce content and has spent years researching toddler toys for various ages and stages, including climbing sets. Based on her extensive market knowledge, Emma strives to create supportive, informative articles to help new and seasoned parents choose the best play structure for their family’s needs.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Abby Carner is a pediatric occupational therapist at Good Nature Therapy Services in Solon, Ohio. She earned her master’s degree in occupational therapy from Gannon University, and she has experience in school-based practice and outpatient clinic settings.
Alexis Phillips-Walker, DO, is a pediatrician at Memorial Hermann Medical Group Pediatrics in Atascocita, Texas. She earned her medical degree from Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Athens.
Jana Sarno, BCBA, is a board-certified behavior analyst and the chief clinical officer of Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers. She has worked as the vice president of applied behavior analysis at North Shore Pediatric Therapy and as an infant development program administrator at Coyne & Associates Education Corp.
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