Bouldering Gear List for Kids: Everything You Need to Go Bouldering with Kids

Bouldering with kids is more than just a way to burn energy—it’s an adventure, a confidence booster, and an incredible bonding experience for the whole family. Whether you’re heading to a local climbing gym or venturing into the great outdoors, there’s something magical about watching our kids solve problems, overcome fears, and find connection together outdoors -- one climb at a time!

I started Kids Who Explore while I was pregnant with my oldest here and it is amazing to see him find so much joy in nature through many activities like bouldering and climbing.

You don't have to have climbing experience to start bouldering with kids. In fact, bouldering is a great intro to climbing without the need to get as much gear. We are big hikers and have very little climbing exposure. Starting at a gym and indoors with the experts was something that really helped us to learn all the basics. We signed up for the parent and toddler climbing class and watched a lot of knot tying YouTube videos. Bouldering is a lot easier as we don't have to worry about ropes etc. In this blog, I cover everything that we took for a day of bouldering.

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Bouldering with Kids is always an adventure!

Our backcountry getaway to the Purcell's with toddlers and pre-schoolers! We hiked, bouldered, and explored.

But before you chalk up and hit the wall, there are a few things to consider to make your bouldering day fun, safe, and stress-free for everyone involved.

*The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional climbing or safety advice. Bouldering—especially outdoors—carries inherent risks, including the potential for injury. Always supervise children closely, use appropriate safety equipment (such as crash pads and helmets), and ensure your chosen climbing area is suitable for your family's skill level.

Before visiting any location mentioned, confirm current access rules, conditions, and any age-related restrictions. When in doubt, consult with certified climbing professionals or local authorities. Kids Who Explore Ltd. assumes no responsibility or liability for any injuries, losses, or damages incurred while using the information provided in this blog. Stay safe, climb smart, and have fun!

Finding the Right Climbing Spot

The first decision you’ll need to make is whether you’re going bouldering indoors or outdoors. Indoor climbing gyms are usually the best place to start—especially for beginners. Many climbing gyms do not offer baby or toddler programs so keep that in mind. We haved hosted our own Kids Who Explore Learn to Climb events with MEC because we feel that babies can climb too with the help of parents. It is really about just introducing the sport and not forcing anything. Indoor gyms are climate-controlled, enforce safety rules, and are equipped with padded floors. Many gyms have youth-friendly walls or kids’ programs but typically for kids over 4 years old or 40lbs. The indoor gym is a great way to test the waters without committing to gear right away because there are always gear rentals on hand at the gym.

If you’re heading outside, be sure to research family-friendly bouldering areas in your region. Look for locations with easy access, stable landings, and space for breaks. Bonus points if there are picnic areas, shaded spots, or bathrooms nearby. Starting small is so important for small kids so you can even start bouldering in your local park with imagination. My kids naturally love to climb rocks of all sizes. Our toddler-paced hikes can turn into bouldering really quick. My kids have been climbing rocks along the trail since they were able to walk.

Playing with the chalk was just as interesting as the bouldering! A reminder that toddlers will explore on their own terms.

Gearing Up for Bouldering: What Kids Need

The beauty of bouldering with kids is that it requires relatively minimal gear compared to other sports. You don't need all new gear, borrow from friends, join a Kids Who Explore meetup, or find on fb marketplace. I link up all my gear (just click image to shop) that you see over on our social channels. For kids, start with the basics:

• Climbing shoes are a must—they help kids grip the wall and move with more precision. Look for a snug fit, but avoid anything painfully tight. Kids feet grow so quickly and my oldest grew out of his climbing shoes within a couple months. Check marketplace for used climbing gear first. Rent at the gym if you can.

• Chalk and a chalk bag help keep little hands dry for better grip. My boys are obsessed with these little monster chalk bags because they are like toys to them.

• Dress them in comfortable, flexible clothing that doesn’t restrict movement. My go to choices are always either hiking pants or sweat pants.

• If you're bouldering outdoors, crash pads are essential for a safe landing zone. Watch for the sales at your local outdoor shops or check out fb marketplace.

• While not always necessary indoors, a helmet is a smart precaution when climbing on real rock. I always love the idea of helmets on toddlers and babies because they can just bump into things easier it seems.

• Pack a light first-aid kit on the trail with you if you are heading outdoors.

  
  

  

  Our printable resources allow kids to be involved in the bouldering packing adventure. Unlock all of our resources with membership.

Gearing up Parents for bouldering with kids

If you are new to bouldering and climbing too then it can feel like a lot to get all the gear. There are many times that I just focus on the kids and their climbing experience. I don't often gear up but when I do, I will wear my climbing shoes and helmet when bouldering with the kids.

Staying Safe

Safety is everything when it comes to kids and climbing. Always keep a watchful eye on them, especially when they’re on or near the wall. Teach them how to fall safely—encourage them to bend their knees and roll rather than land stiffly. It’s also a good idea to bring along a mini first-aid kit—scraped knees and hands are part of the deal sometimes. All the time in toddlerhood in the outdoors it seems!

Keep It Playful

Kids need fun woven into every part of their outdoor experiences. You can turn bouldering into a game. Time their climbs, make up silly challenges, or celebrate when they try a new hold—even if they don’t make it to the top. Why don't you try it out too! Our kids love to learn along with us and they can actually teach us so much more than we realize.

Encouragement goes a long way. Let your child explore at their own pace and avoid pushing them past their limits. The goal is to make them fall in love with the activity, not fear it.

Snacks, Breaks, and the Power of a Picnic

Climbing is surprisingly draining for kids, so plan for plenty of breaks and lots of water. Pack nutritious, easy-to-eat snacks and more water than you think you’ll need. If you’re outside, a small picnic setup or mat or picnic blanket can give kids a chance to chill between climbs. Bring extra layers for the kids because it can be chilly sitting by rocks.

Teaching Respect and Responsibility

Bouldering is a community-oriented sport, and it’s important to help your kids learn climbing etiquette early on. That means taking turns, not hogging popular routes, and keeping noise levels respectful in busy spaces. Toddlerhood can be challenging with the whole indoor voice concept. It is important to explain to your kids why noise levels need to be lower. Explain the other climbers are trying to focus and climb and hear their spotter below.

If you’re outdoors, teach Leave No Trace principles as always. Pack out everything you brought in—including snack wrappers and chalk. Encourage kids to respect nature, other climbers, and the environment as part of the adventure.

Extra Tips for Parents

Bouldering with kids can be chaotic. If you can, bring another adult to tag-team supervision and give each other a break. Expect shorter sessions, and be flexible with your plans—kids’ attention spans vary wildly from day to day. I bring in my backcountry paint set for the kids to play or their little backcountry cards game. Things like books, magnetic building blocks, and small toys are ideal. My kids may only last an hour because hiking into climb locations can be exhausting by itself.

The Skaha Bluffs "Daycare" Crag is so awesome for kids just learning

Bouldering fun and sparking a love for nature

Introducing your child to bouldering opens the door to an empowering, exciting hobby that can grow with them. It's not about sending them to the top of every wall—it's about showing them how to try, fall, get back up, and keep climbing.

Start small, enjoy the little moments, and most importantly—have fun and pack lots of snacks. You just might discover a fun new way to explore the outdoors without having to "force" another family hike. My kids said they will go climbing anytime!