Why is it called a Pikler?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

The reason it is called a Pikler is because it was named after its creator, Dr. Emmi Pikler. She was a Hungarian Pediatrician who had a passion for understanding and promoting the healthy development of children. Dr. Pikler believed that children should be given the opportunity to explore and learn at their own pace, in a safe and supportive environment.

Dr. Pikler noticed that traditional play equipment often limited a child’s movement and didn’t encourage them to develop their gross motor skills. She wanted to create something that would allow children to freely move and explore, while also providing a sense of security. This led her to design and develop the Pikler Triangle.

The Pikler Triangle is a simple yet versatile piece of play equipment that consists of a wooden triangle with rungs or steps. It is designed to encourage children to climb, crawl, and balance, helping them to develop strength, coordination, and body awareness. The triangle can be used in various ways, such as a climbing frame, a slide, or as a support for imaginative play.

Dr. Pikler’s approach to child development emphasized the importance of respecting the child’s autonomy and allowing them to learn through their own experiences. She believed that children should be given the freedom to explore and discover their own abilities, without interference or pressure from adults.

The Pikler Triangle is an embodiment of Dr. Pikler’s philosophy, as it provides a safe and supportive space for children to learn and grow. It allows them to take risks, test their limits, and develop their physical skills in a natural and self-directed manner.

The Pikler Triangle is called a Pikler because it was named after its creator, Dr. Emmi Pikler. Dr. Pikler’s vision and dedication to child development led her to design this innovative play equipment that promotes the healthy growth and development of children’s gross motor skills.