Updated: April 24, 2016
Originally Published: May 16, 2015
I’ll admit it: I let my kids climb the slide.
Some of you are probably shocked, while others might be indifferent. Recently, I discovered that the Great Slide Controversy is one of those hot-button issues in the parenting world. We’ve all heard the playground adage: go up the stairs and down the slide. Based on reactions to a recent article I came across, you’re either part of the “up-the-stairs, down-the-slide” group or the “go-ahead-and-climb” camp.
The staunch supporters of the up-the-stairs crowd are particularly vocal in their disdain for those who allow climbing. One mom expressed that those who ascend the slide are bullying others, discouraging them from sliding down. Another mentioned how she felt justified in correcting other parents’ kids if they dared to climb. “Ladders are for climbing,” declared one commenter. “It’s about teaching them how to navigate society … that’s fundamental parenting!” Across the board, there’s a shared frustration with parents who overlook basic playground etiquette.
Let me clarify: I do understand the fundamental playground rules. I’ve even instructed my kids to adhere to them on occasion. However, I believe climbing the slide is just as crucial as sliding down. If there’s no one waiting to use the slide, I think kids should have the freedom to explore and climb as they wish. It’s an essential part of their play experience.
Ascending the slide fosters body awareness, engages the vestibular system, and helps children learn how to fall safely. In today’s world, most kids aren’t getting enough physical activity, and climbing helps improve their balance, which can benefit them later in life.
Furthermore, climbing the slide allows my kids to safely test their limits. How high can they climb? Can they make it? When will they slide back down? These trials build both physical and emotional confidence. Even if they don’t succeed (which often happens), there’s a sense of achievement that comes with attempting to conquer the slide. They experiment with different holds and foot placements, enhancing their spatial awareness.
Above all, I want my children to understand that they don’t have to conform to how others dictate their play. If everyone is sliding down, then climbing up becomes an act of creativity. This encourages them to question the norms around them, starting with something as simple as a playground.
I can already hear the up-the-stairs enthusiasts getting riled up. How could I prioritize my children’s exploration over another child’s right to slide down? To clarify, I only permit climbing when no one is waiting to go down. Therefore, I struggle to see how it disrupts anyone’s fun.
I understand that some parents may prefer their children not to climb, and they could perceive my kids as bad role models. This presents a great opportunity to discuss differing parenting styles. I won’t limit my children’s enjoyment because someone else thinks they’re a negative influence. If you don’t want your child to climb, it’s your responsibility to intervene. But please don’t stop my kids, who know their mother has given them the green light to climb when the coast is clear.
My kids are aware that the slide is primarily for sliding down. They know not to climb when there’s a line, and they also understand that if they do, they might get a well-deserved boot in the face. It’s another life lesson learned.
At the end of the day, climbing the slide is simply fun. I did it, you did it; we all remember the thrill of that climb, the careful coordination of feet and hands, and the pride that came with reaching the top—only to slide right back down again. I won’t rob my kids of that joy. If you choose to deny your kids that experience, that’s on you.
So, when you spot us at the park, be prepared. We’ll stay clear when other kids are coming down, but when it’s clear, my kids will have their chance to climb. It’s all part of a healthy childhood, and I’m committed to giving them the freedom to enjoy it.
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Summary
The article discusses the ongoing debate about allowing children to climb up slides in playgrounds. The author believes that climbing is an important part of childhood play, fostering physical skills, confidence, and creative exploration. While acknowledging differing parenting styles, the author stands firm in allowing their children to enjoy this aspect of play as long as it doesn’t interfere with others.