For parents who climb, Bouldering is often the easier and less stressful way to pass on their passion to their children – after all, belaying and the fear of heights, which are key factors in rope climbing, simply don’t come into it. Nevertheless, there are a few things to bear in mind.
Text and photos: Matthias Bader
To start with, an indoor climbing centre is the perfect place to begin. Some centres have dedicated children’s areas with Bouldering, holds and even slides suitable for children – a real adventure playground. These areas aren’t very high either, so falling from them is relatively harmless.
There’s no reason why children shouldn’t climb in the main bouldering area too. However, they shouldn’t climb all the way to the top and should always be spot-checked by an adult.
Spotting means providing the child with protection and support so that, should they fall accidentally, they always land with their feet on the mat. You shouldn’t try to catch them – that’s usually impossible anyway.
There are also rules in the bouldering area: running about is dangerous and has already led to some hair-raising incidents. To boulder in the adult area, children need a certain level of understanding and a sense of responsibility – this is where parents have a role to play.
Bouldering on rock is also great fun with children – though the access route and landing area should be suitable for children. Here are four areas where this is the case:
1. Silvapark, Galtür. Deep in the Paznaun Valley above Galtür, this world-famous bouldering area even has its own children’s course. The ideal time of year is mid-summer – thanks to the high altitude, temperatures are pleasant then. You can reach the area by Cable Car or by car; driving up the gravel road to the pay-and-display car park is permitted. The first boulders can be reached after a ten-minute walk, which is suitable for children.
2. Mandlers Boden, Pitztal. Some of the boulders are quite low, making them ideal for children. All the boulders are signposted and are idyllically situated in the woods around a lovely picnic meadow. Access is short.
3. Hualig Almeck, Imst. Boulders made of perfect high-mountain limestone, scattered throughout a beautifully shaded mushroom forest high above Imst. It can be reached in ten minutes from the Middle station of the Imster Uphill Facilities – and, at over 1,400 metres, it’s a pleasant Finishing Point even in the hottest months of the year.
4. Reithle, Imst. Right nearby, this family friendly bouldering area, with boulders up to 15 metres high in the shady woodland, awaits climbers of all ages.
As always, the key is not to overwhelm children or force or pressure them into doing anything. The children should simply have a good day and a great experience – then, sooner or later, their enthusiasm for Bouldering will come naturally.
Tips & Safety
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