Understanding Risky Play: Why We Let Children Climb Higher

At Saplings, we often talk about the value of risky play; the kind of play that might make grown-ups hold their breath: climbing trees, balancing on logs, jumping from rocks, or using sticks in imaginative ways. But what might feel risky to us is often exactly what children need.

This post is here to help you understand what risky play is, why we support it, and how it’s safely encouraged in outdoor learning environments like ours.

What Is Risky Play?

Risky play refers to exciting and challenging forms of play that involve a real possibility of physical injury, but within a managed and age-appropriate context.

Examples include:

• Climbing trees or large rocks

• Balancing on logs or uneven terrain

• Building shelters or using tools

• Rough-and-tumble play (chasing, wrestling)

• Exploring near water (with close supervision)

Rather than eliminating risk, we teach children to assess it.

Why Risky Play Matters

Children learn through experience, and risky play helps build:

• Confidence & Self-Esteem: “I did it!” is a powerful feeling.

• Judgment & Risk Assessment: Learning what feels safe for them.

• Physical Literacy: Strength, balance, coordination.

• Emotional Resilience: Managing fear, frustration, and mistakes.

• Independence: They lead; we support.

When we remove all risk, we also remove opportunities for growth.

“Children need to encounter risks and overcome fears in order to develop the skills they need to keep themselves safe.” — Mariana Brussoni, UBC Professor and Play Researcher

How We Support Risky Play Safely

At Saplings, we don’t just let children climb or explore without thought. Our educators are trained to:

• Conduct site risk assessments and dynamic supervision

• Model safe behavior and scaffold skills

• Set clear boundaries (e.g., tree height limits, stick use zones)

• Use tools and natural materials in age-appropriate, guided ways

• Step back when children are capable and step in when needed

We follow the BC Early Learning Framework and draw from current research on child-led learning and play-based development.

Watch & Learn: Resources for Parents

Here are some excellent articles and videos that explain the research behind risky play:

• “What is Risky Play?” – Outside Play A parent-friendly overview from Canadian researchers, including interactive guidance.

• "The Importance of Risky Play" – Mariana Brussoni (TEDx) A must-watch TEDx talk by UBC professor and play researcher.

• “When Is Risky Play Too Risky?” – CBC News Discusses how playgrounds and outdoor spaces are evolving.

How You Can Support Risky Play at Home

• Allow your child to try before you say “be careful.” Use alternatives like:

  • “Do you feel stable?”

  • “Where will you put your foot next?”

  • “What’s your plan?”

• Avoid rushing in unless there’s a real safety concern. Trust builds when children feel you believe in their abilities.

• Talk about safe risks during walks, park visits, or climbing challenges:

  • “Is that rock stable?”

  • “How high do you feel comfortable going?”

• Reflect afterward: “What felt hard? What felt good? Would you do it again differently?”

Final Thought

Risky play doesn’t mean unsafe play. It means letting children stretch their abilities with the support and safety nets of trusted adults. At Saplings, we believe this kind of play builds children who are more capable, confident, and connected to their world.

We’re always happy to chat with you if you’re unsure about something your child is doing—or if you just want to know more about the “why” behind the tree climbing.