How obstacle courses can help kids build confidence
My daughter reached the top of the A-frame the very first time she climbed it, but she didn’t dare cross it because of fear. She stood frozen at the peak, gripping the bars tightly, staring at me intently. No amount of urging from me could make her move one leg across it.
It’s not as if the challenge was physically taxing for her. She was nimble and fast as she scaled the frame with ease, almost like she’d done it before. Clearly, it wasn’t her body that was holding her back.
There was an obstacle that she had to climb that wasn’t made of ropes or bars. I stood at the bottom of the frame, nodding my head whenever she looked at me. When she went down disappointed, I didn’t force the issue.
As it turned out, I didn’t need to do anything.
What finally made the difference was one of the Ninja Monkey coaches when the Strong Kid Camp hosted by Cheez Whiz started. Calm and patient, they met her at the top of the frame and offered their presence. No pressure, no commands. They just gently guided her legs to cross to the other side. They saw her hesitate and they didn’t give time for her self-doubts to settle in her mind. Once she got her bearings, she climbed back down.
“This event reinforces that kids must stay physically active because it builds their muscles, improves coordination, and toughens them overall,” said Ninja Monkeys founder Kaizen Dela Serna.
Small victory
The A-frame became my daughter’s favorite obstacle. She kept coming back to it, climbing faster and more confident. There was an adult version of the A-frame on the side and she climbed it without hesitation. Her progress came very fast.
It was a small moment of victory for us at the Strong Kid Camp. I saw our story being replicated in the kids around us. Kids zipped through the obstacle courses because there were coaches supporting them. It was an empowering experience.
The camp featured seven obstacle courses designed to challenge kids physically and mentally, all while teaching them about the importance of staying healthy. Each station highlighted a specific vitamin or mineral essential for strength and energy—vitamin A for vision, vitamin D for bone strength, phosphorus for endurance, and calcium for muscle movement.
“Drawing upon my experience as an athlete, I’ve learned that when I do more and push through challenges, I consistently build the strength and mindset that empowers me to take on anything. I want today’s kids to experience that same resilience,” said Dela Serna.
It was more than just play. It was a full-body, full-mind experience that reminded kids—and parents like me—what courage can look like in motion. It’s not about getting it right the first time, but the persistence to try again.
