Our Pikler triangle is a versatile toy, designed to provide a wide range of play possibilities for children of all ages. It helps to build strength, coordination, problem-solving skills, and more. It’s a genuinely multifunctional toy that grows with the child!
But with so many options, it can get difficult to decide how to use the toy correctly and get the most out of it. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the GROWGO Pikler triangle and share tips on how to use the toy in different ways to support your child's growth and development at every stage.
The Age Range
The GROWGO Pikler triangle has an age range of 6 months to 7 years old. It's a toy that's perfect for toddlers and young children who are learning to explore their surroundings and build their physical and cognitive abilities. Whether your child is just starting to stand up and walk, or is ready to climb and slide, the GROWGO Pikler triangle has something for everyone.
Of course, every child develops at their own pace, and some may be ready to start using the GROWGO Pikler triangle earlier or continue using it later. That's okay! The age range is simply a guideline to help parents understand when the toy may be most appropriate for their child's needs and abilities. As with any toy, it's important to observe your child's behavior and abilities and use your best judgment when deciding how to use the GROWGO Pikler triangle.
An Overview Of The Features
The Pikler triangle itself is a versatile wooden toy that's perfect for toddlers and young children. Its sturdy frame is designed to help little ones learn to stand up and walk. As children grow, it also provides plenty of opportunities for climbing and exploring.
The ramp that comes with the GROWGO Pikler triangle is double-sided and adds even more fun to playtime. Children can climb up the ramp (the side with climbing rocks), slide down it (the smooth side), or even rock on it when it's placed on the ground.
The three wooden balls included in the set are perfect for playing pinball on the ramp. Children can roll the balls down the ramp and watch as they bounce off the colorful stones.
The cotton tent cover (also included) can be placed on top of the Pikler frame to create a cozy tent that's perfect for imaginative play. Children can use the tent as a private spot for reading or relaxing, or they can pretend they're camping in the great outdoors.
Finally, the packaging box is more than just a box. It can be transformed into a fun and engaging puppet theater, complete with cut-out cardboard puppets for children to play with. This not only encourages creativity and imaginative play but also reduces waste by giving the packaging a second life as a fun craft project.
Years 1-2: Learning How To Walk
During the first 1-2 years of a toddler's life, they are learning how to move and explore their surroundings. The GROWGO Pikler triangle is an excellent tool to aid in this developmental process. At this age, it is recommended to use the Pikler triangle alone, without the ramp or tent cover.
The Pikler triangle frame is perfect for teaching a toddler how to pull themselves up to a standing position and begin walking. The wooden rungs of the triangle provide a stable support system for the toddler's hands and feet. As the toddler grows more confident in standing, they can practice taking small steps while holding onto the rungs. This is an essential step in developing the motor skills needed to walk independently.
P.s. you may find products review guides about it on various blogs like this one.
Years 2-3: Climbing And Building Muscle Strength
During the toddler's 2-3 years of life, they are likely to become more adventurous and start climbing the Pikler triangle. This is a great opportunity for them to develop their muscle strength and flexibility. They can start experimenting with different climbing techniques. As parents, it's essential to let them explore and learn on their own while still keeping a watchful eye.
While it's important to supervise the toddler while they're climbing the triangle, it's also crucial to let them learn at their own pace. This can help promote independence and a sense of accomplishment. Some toddlers may take longer to feel comfortable climbing the Pikler triangle than others, and that's okay. As long as they're interested in exploring and experimenting, they will eventually gain the confidence to climb.
Years 3 to 6: Using The Pikler To Its Full Potential
From 3 years old and up, children can fully enjoy the GROWGO Pikler triangle and explore all of its features, including the ramp, the wooden balls, and the cotton tent cover. At this age, they have developed enough strength, balance, and coordination to climb, slide, and play pinball. Parents can encourage their creativity and imaginative play by helping them with the package box DIY, setting up the tent cover, and letting them explore different scenarios.
How To Use The Ramp With The Pikler
The GROWGO Pikler triangle's ramp is double-sided and has 4 uses. 2 of them are climbing and sliding.
On the climbing side, the ramp features colored wooden climbing rocks with smooth and rounded edges that can be attached to the ramp. By placing the ramp on one of the dowels, you can create a climbing route for kids. The ramp is secured to the dowel with safety strips, and it's recommended to use the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th dowel from the ground, depending on the child's development level.
On the other side, the ramp can be used as a slide. The surface is smooth and soft, ensuring a safe sliding experience. The ramp is also secured to the dowel with safety strips, and parents can choose the best dowel height for their child's age and ability level. With its versatile design, the ramp provides endless opportunities for kids to play and develop their gross motor skills.
The Pinball Game
The 3d use of the ramp is paired with the wooden ball set that comes with the purchase.
Playing with the colorful wooden balls on the ramp is a great way for kids to practice their hand-eye coordination and dexterity. Parents can encourage them to play pinball by rolling the balls down the ramp's side with the colored climbing rocks. Kids can also try to race the balls down the smooth side of the ramp, which is another fun way to play. These activities are not only entertaining for kids, but they also help them develop important physical, cognitive, and social skills, as kids can play together.
Using The Ramp On Its Own
The 4th way to use the ramp is to use it as a rocker. The ramp has curved sides that allow kids to safely rock back and forth, improving their balance and core strength. Just place the ramp on the ground and let them have fun. It's important to note that parents should always be around to supervise and help move the ramp around.
The Tent Cover: Imaginative Play And Private Time
The cotton tent cover that comes with the GROWGO Pikler triangle allows kids to use their imagination and creativity to play various games such as house, camping, or anything else they can come up with. By pretending to be in different scenarios, children can learn about different social situations and improve their problem-solving skills. Playing in the tent also encourages children to think creatively and independently, which helps with their overall cognitive development.
In addition to providing an imaginative play area, the cotton tent cover also offers practical benefits. It can serve as a cozy hideaway or a calming space for a child to retreat to when they need some alone time.
The cotton tent cover is a great way to extend the life of the GROWGO Pikler triangle. As children grow and develop, their interests and play preferences may change, but the tent cover provides a new dimension of play that can keep the triangle engaging and exciting for years to come. It can also be a fun way to involve siblings or friends in playtime, as the tent cover can turn the Pikler triangle into a shared play area for multiple children.
The tent cover can be easily removed and machine washed, making it easy to keep clean and hygienic.
Packaging That's Also A Craft Project: For Increased Creativity And Social Skills
The GROWGO Pikler triangle comes in a sustainable packaging box that doubles as a craft project for kids. The box can be turned into a puppet theater! Parents should help cut out the pieces from the box, and kids can get creative with coloring and assembling the pieces. This feature not only makes the packaging eco-friendly but also provides an additional play option for kids.
Once the puppet theater is assembled, kids can use the included cardboard figurines to create their own stories and plays. This type of imaginative play is essential for developing social skills, problem-solving, and creativity. Parents can also join in on the fun and help bring the stories to life. The puppet theater adds an extra dimension of play to the GROWGO Pikler triangle and provides hours of entertainment for kids and family bonding time.
The Toy That Offers Years Of Value
As parents, it is important to supervise kids while they play, but it is also essential to let them learn at their own pace to promote independence. The GROWGO Pikler triangle is an investment in children's physical and mental development, and it has the potential to be used for years. From learning how to stand up and walk to playing house and socializing with friends, the GROWGO Pikler triangle will grow with your child and provide endless hours of fun and learning.
