Put the Ladder Away (Sort Of)
If your kid keeps climbing the fence like a mini Spiderman, try this: install interesting obstacles inside the yard. Place things like a sandbox, or a mini climbing dome, about five feet from the fence. It gives them a challenge that doesn't end with a trip to the ER.
Understand the Climbers
Kids climb for the thrill, or because they saw Bluey do it once (and if Bluey does it, it must be cool). Fences look like enormous rock walls to them. So, give them something else adventurous. A small treehouse can sometimes do the trick (with stricter safety guidelines, of course).
3 Tips That Actually Work
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Plant some bushes: Tall shrubs can act as a natural barrier. After a few scratches, they might decide the fence isn't worth it.
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Sticky notes: Kids love games. Create a spot-the-sticky-note game on the other side of the yard. They’ll be zig-zagging around, too occupied to climb.
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Conversation starter: "Look, buddy, I get it. You want to be Moana discovering the ocean. But the backyard is our safe island." This makes them feel like they're still on an adventure, just a safer one.
A Personal Tale
Last Saturday, 10 a.m., my four-year-old announced, "I'm going overboard now!" (yes, overboard, his words, not mine) before I could blink he was halfway up. As an impromptu solution, I started a game of tag. Not elegant, but efficient. We were both tired after — he, from running; me, from panic.
Ending On a Realistic Note
These tricks won't keep every kid grounded forever. There's always the persistent climber who sees the bushes as a challenge rather than a deterrent. But, the game of tag will buy you time to think of more creative — or desperate — solutions.