Rope World

We took Spencer to the 6:15 session of Rope World.  If your toddler is willing to try new things, I highly recommend trying out RW.  There are so many things to try, including a zip line, climbing wall, balance beams that can be walked on or slid down, tunnels to crawl through, nets to climb, rope walkways, ropes to climb, foam triangles to roll or somersault down - a ton of stuff. 

Our first time there, Spencer was not yet two, and I was terrified.  He fell flat on his face trying the zip line the first time, with a terrible smacking sound as he hit the mats.  He was unfazed, however, and spent all of his time on the rope swings.  At the playground the next week, his new-found confidence was evident, and so was his new sense of balance.  We went to the 4:15 session that time, and while all the kids were polite and patient, it was a bit crowded.

The next time, we went to the 6:15 session with my husband.  Spence tried the zip line again but couldn't quite manage it - but he didn't fall.  He climbed ladders higher than my husband's head, played on the rope swings a lot, and enjoyed the balance beams.  He did a lot more than I thought he could, and I was impressed.  The next time we went to the playground, Spencer could do all of the slides, climb several of the ladders, and had no fear in tackling nets.  I was amazed.  Every time we go, his confidence in his body and his abilities just skyrockets.

This time, we went to the 6:15 session again.  This is the session I prefer, I think - not crowded at all.  Spence did almost everything except the rope walkway, which I don't think he's quite tall enough for.  He rode the zip line again and again without falling, and was able to follow the proper protocol (dragging the rope back for the next kid in line, waiting for his turn patiently, etc.).  He had a great time and didn't want to leave. 

He looks so tiny climbing ladders, clinging to zip line handles, trying to wrap his legs around the rope swing.  Part of me can't help but worry about his tiny breakable body.  But we are spotting him, and are careful with him, and most of me is proud that he is brave and fearless and happy, and that we are teaching him to be active when he is so small.