TAKE THE LEAP. Kids can get a hands-on, guided learning experience with UWEC's upcoming indoor rock climbing sessions. (Photo via UWEC Climbing Wall Facebook)

Have a kid who’s bouncing off the walls? Get ’em climbing on the walls instead! UW-Eau Claire is hosting its first Youth Indoor Rock Climbing Program this spring.

The program will be facilitated by certified instructors and aims to empower youth in a fun, safe, team-oriented environment. There are two sections available to register for, the first happening Feb. 11-March 10 and the second running April 7-May 5. While the program is open to kids ages 6-14, participants will be grouped by age: ages 6-9 and ages 10-14.

Organizer and regular climber Lily Pereenboom said participants simply need to come prepared to move around and get climbing, so wearing comfortable or athletic clothing will be key. Climbing shoes and harnesses will be available on-site, free of charge. 

“The idea (for this programming) sparked in my head after I was a youth coach in Australia for six months,” Peerenboom said. “I also had a lot of parent interest when I started talking about it!”

Each session offers kids an opportunity to explore climbing movements, with instructors able to adapt to each child’s ability in order to support their learning. Each session is $75 per child, and registration is available online.

Learn more about the climbing walls at UW-Eau Claire online.