Young children have lots of energy and a desire to explore. I absolutely love giving them opportunities to move and climb indoors – so many behavior problems can be avoided! A foldable pikler triangle provides indoor climbing opportunities and is an essential part of any playroom for kids.
I have had several pikler triangles in classrooms over the years and am here to share some of my favorites.
In this post:
- What is a pikler triangle?
- Benefits of a Pikler Triangle
- Best Foldable Pikler Triangles
- Pikler Triangle Accessories
- Buying Considerations
- FAQs
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What is a pikler triangle?
The pikler triangle, inspired by Hungarian pediatrician Dr. Emmi Pikler, is a climbing structure that engages kids and facilitates their gross motor and cognitive development.
The pikler triangle is characterized by its triangular shape and is made from wood and fitted with rungs or bars. It’s sturdy and incredibly minimalistic. I love that it is battery-free – flashing lights, music, and bright colors overstimulate children in an attempt to entertain them.
Pikler triangles come in various sizes, and some folding versions can be locked into multiple height settings. I always prefer to buy a foldable version of the pikler triangle so that it can folded flat for easy storage.
- Looking for more indoor gross motor toys? Check out all my favorite balance beams for kids!
Benefits of a Pikler Triangle
There are many benefits to the pikler triangle!
- Physical Development: Kids are naturally inclined to climb – anyone else have a little one who loves to scale the forward-facing bookshelf?! The pikler allows them to satisfy this urge in a safe and controlled environment.
Navigating the rungs helps children develop a sense of balance and spatial awareness. The varied climbing movements aid in developing gross and fine motor skills. - Cognitive Skills: Kids learn to negotiate, strategize, and solve problems as they decide how to climb and navigate the triangle. Kids build focus as they pay attention to small details, such as grip strength and foot placement.
They learn to associate actions with consequences, grounding their understanding of cause and effect. - Confidence: Successfully climbing boosts kid’s confidence and shows them how capable they are.
- Risk Assessment: Kids learn to evaluate and take calculated risks, contributing to their decision-making skills.
- Play: The pikler triangle is sturdy, safe, and designed for kids to use independently; thus, it creates a child-centric environment. Play spaces like this encourage lots of independent play since kids don’t need to rely on adults for help.
Best Foldable Pikler Triangles
A foldable pikler triangle is a must! Trust me, there will be times that you’ll want to pack it away to clear up a bit of space.
Here are all my favorites.
1. Best Basic Climbing Triangle: Good Evas Kids Foldable Pikler Triangle
Dimensions: 40.94″ × 23.62″ × 5.51″ (in the folded position)
Age: 6 months to 7 years
Weight Capacity: 220lbs
This amazing pikler triangle can be locked open in 4 positions, making it a climber that grows with your child! On the lowest setting, the peak of the triangle is just 14.9 inches off the ground, while on the tallest setting, it is 35.4 inches. You can raise the triangle as your child builds their climbing skills.
The triangle is made of birch and bio-based plywood glue that is not only safe for kids but also good for the environment. Overall, it is high quality and easy to assemble.
You can purchase just the pikler triangle or make it a set by adding an arch, slide, and rope net. Additional accessories include a pillow for the arch and an art set that turns the triangle into an easel.
What I love:
- folds completely flat for storage
- folds into 4 play positions
- high weight capacity allows multiple children to play
- you have the option to buy a set
- comes in two color options to match any decor
Check out the Good Evas Kids climber.
2. Best Transformable Climbing Triangle: upaFAMILY Transformable Climber
Age: 6 months to 6 years old
Weight Capacity: 110lbs
This transformable climbing triangle truly grows with your child! It consists of four pieces that can be arranged and locked off in whatever position you would like. Pieces can even be taken apart to form two smaller triangles. The triangle is extra tall when all 4 pieces are used, making it fun for older kids to continue exploring.
I love that this triangle is big and can be used as a cozy hideout similar to a Waldorf playstand. Simply drape a sheet or blanket over the top! There’s even enough space under the pikler triangle to add a hammock. And the great thing is kids can still climb when the hammock is up.
The climbing triangle is made from Baltic birch plywood, polished Aspen, and treated with a child-safe oil. It is sturdy and of excellent quality.
You have the option to purchase just the climbing triangle, or you can add a ramp, an arch, and a hammock to make it a set.
What I love:
- can be configured in many different ways
- pieces can be taken apart to form two small triangles
- extra tall when all 4 pieces are used together
- easily folds down for storage
- big enough to play under
Check out the upaFamily climber.
3. Best Small Climbing Triangle: Lily and River Little Climber
Dimensions: 30 x 33 x 23 1/2 inches (open climber)
Age: 6 months to 4 years old
I use the Lily and River triangle with toddlers and have seen little ones as young as 10 and 11 months old cruise up and down the rungs! It’s incredibly sturdy and extra stable – no need to worry about babies and toddlers pulling it over. This triangle is just 23.5 inches high, perfect for small spaces and younger kids. When you need space, simply fold the triangle away for another day.
This high-quality pikler triangle is made of premium hardwoods, and the rungs are made of Birch hardwood. I have seen it stand up to countless hours of use by little ones in a school setting.
The triangle comes in three color options for the rungs: natural, white, or rainbow. You can purchase just the climbing triangle or add a ramp. One ramp features rungs, while the other is a rock wall. Each ramp can also be flipped over to double as a slide.
What I love:
- great for small play spaces – its small footprint takes up less space than some climbers
- perfect size for babies and toddlers
- super high quality – it will last forever!
- easy to fold
Check out the Lily and River Climber.
4. Best Climbing Triangle/Swedish Wall Combo: Tree Sounds Pikler Triangle
Dimensions: 27 x 34 x 31 inches (open climber)
Age: 6 months to 7 years
Weight Capacity: 110lbs
This triangle is truly unique – it comes with the wall attachment and top bar needed to quickly transform it into a Swedish wall! This is perfect for kids as they grow and develop their climbing abilities. You can introduce the triangle to 6-month-old babies as they pull up to stand and still use it years later as they climb and hang on the wall.
The triangle is made of quality Baltic birch plywood and Aspen rungs. It is then covered in an eco-friendly, child-safe, water-based coating that adds durability.
You can purchase just the climbing triangle (this includes the wall attachments needed to hang it), or you can also add a ramp.
What I love:
- so simple to transition between triangle and Swedish wall
- grows with your child
- brightly colored rungs
- high quality
Check out the Tree Sounds climber.
5. Best Bright Climbing Triangle: Baby Street Fun Transformable Climbing Triangle
Dimensions: 43.3 inches (maximum height)
Age: 1 to 8
Weight Capacity: 110lbs
This bright climber consists of six pieces that can be arranged in countless configurations! You can make a house, a cube, a tall triangle, or experiment with your own shapes. Pieces can even be taken apart to create two or three small pikler triangles. I love that it can be arranged low to the grown for babies and transformed as kids grow.
This pikler triangle is made of plywood and coated with child-safe varnish. It is sturdy and made to last.
You have the option to purchase just the transformable climbing triangle or add a ramp and a climbing arch to create a bigger climbing structure.
What I love:
- bright rainbow colors
- 6 pieces that can be taken apart or configured in many ways
- easy to fold down when not in use
- can add additional climbers and ramps to make a larger set
Check out the Baby Street Fun climber.
Pikler Triangle Accessories
You can add accessories to your pikler triangle to increase the play.
Some of my favorites include:
- ramp/slide – many reversible options have climbing holds on one side and are smooth on the other side
- play silks – these are great for turning the triangle into a cozy reading nook or hideout. Sarah’s Silks are my favorite for their beautiful colors and large size
- hammock – kids love to swing in a hammock in the bigger transformable climbing triangles
Your kids will also naturally come up with fun and interesting ways to use the pikler triangle and incorporate their own accessories from around your house. I’ve seen kids add pillows, toys, and blankets in the course of their play.
Foldable Pikler Triangle Buying Considerations
• Size, size, size!
It’s important to pick a foldable pikler triangle that will fit well within your space. Look at the product dimensions carefully to ensure you select the appropriate size. Consider how and where you’ll store it, especially if looking at a larger model or one with multiple attachments.
Also, consider the size of the pikler triangle relative to your child’s age and size. It should be neither too high nor too small. Opt for options that can be configured to grow with your child.
• Safety
Ensure it’s made of high-quality, durable materials that can withstand regular use. The structure should be sturdy and not wobble or tip over when in use. Look for a smooth finish to prevent splinters, and if painted, ensure non-toxic paint is used.
• Additional Features and Accessories
Some triangles have additional features like slides, ramps, or climbing arches to enhance the play experience. These can be worth looking into when making an initial purchase because sometimes a set is cheaper than buying each piece individually. Look for options that can be customized or expanded as your child grows.
• Cost
Yes, pikler triangles can be a bit spendy.
Compare prices across different brands and models to ensure you get the best value for your money. Balance the cost with the quality and features offered. It may be worth investing in a pricier model if it’s safer and more versatile.
You can also find some great deals on used pikler triangles on Facebook marketplace! I have purchased several triangles for classrooms this way.
FAQs
1. What is a pikler triangle?
A Pikler Triangle is a simple, wooden triangular climbing structure that allows children to explore and develop motor skills, balance, and strength at their own pace. It’s sometimes also called a climbing triangle or a Montessori climber.
2. Did Maria Montessori create the pikler triangle?
Nope! While it does align with the Montessori philosophy, the pikler triangle was created based on the principles and ideas of Dr. Emmi Pikler, a renowned Hungarian pediatrician.
Dr. Pikler believed strongly in the benefits of natural learning and movement for children. She advocated for the idea of allowing children to explore and move freely, developing at their own pace without undue intervention from adults. She emphasized the importance of autonomous discovery and play in a loving and supportive environment.
The pikler triangle supports Dr. Pikler’s ideologies by providing children with opportunities for physical development, free movement, and exploration. It aids in developing motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination in a safe and child-centric environment.
3. At what age can my child start using a pikler triangle?
Kids as young as six months can start exploring the pikler triangle, especially for pulling up and standing. However, always ensure close supervision to ensure safety. The triangle can be used by children up to the age of 6 or 7, depending on the child’s size and skill level and the size of the triangle.
4. How can I make my pikler triangle safe for kids to climb on independently?
It’s designed to be stable and safe for children to climb when placed on a flat surface. It is also essential to place the triangle on a play mat or a padded surface to protect kids from injuries related to falls.
Regularly check that all screws and bolts are tight, and inspect for any wear or damage.
5. Can I use a pikler triangle outdoors?
While it’s primarily designed for indoor use, you can use it outdoors in suitable weather conditions – avoid rain, snow, and mud. Make sure to bring the triangle back inside after every use to minimize exposure to excessive moisture, heat, or cold.
6. How do I choose the right size pikler triangle?
Consider your child’s height, skill level, and the available space in your home. There are various sizes available, so choose one that your child can use safely and comfortably.
7. Can the pikler triangle be used by more than one child at a time?
It depends on the size and design of the triangle. Most triangles have weight limits that allow them to accommodate 2 children easily. Always check the weight limit specified by the manufacturer to ensure safety. Supervise children closely when multiple kids are playing to avoid accidents.
8. How can I introduce my child to the pikler triangle?
Babies and toddlers catch on quickly when they see older children climbing the pikler triangle. You can also use a baby doll to model how to climb up the triangle.
But even without any demonstration, kids will begin to explore it at their own pace. Stay close to provide support and encouragement. Babies and toddlers will start climbing and experimenting with different movements as they become familiar with it.
9. Can I make my own pikler triangle?
Yes, if you are handy and enjoy building, you can make your own climbing triangle. You can design it yourself or buy building plans.
Final Thoughts
A foldable pikler triangle is a fantastic addition to any play space or classroom. It gives kids an appropriate place to climb, move, and build coordination indoors. These sturdy yet simple climbers will last forever and are well worth the investment.
- Looking for other wooden gross motor toys? Check out all my favorite wooden balance bikes for kids!
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