I just dont want to buy a 2nd one for the high price of at least $150. What are the best learning towers? It is made of Baltic birch plywood, which is generally known for its durability. Our writers, editors, and lab technicians obsess over the products we cover to make sure you're confident and satisfied. Championed by Montessori teachers and parents of enthusiastic " I do it !" I just found this article and would love to order one for my daughter but hate to pay full price if I dont have to! 21 Montessori inspired toys that will grow with your child, Mini Chef Convertible Kitchen Helper Tower, 17 tried-and-true products that make travel with kids seamless (and even fun! Thank you !! Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. The Little Partners Explore n Store Learning Tower is a practical option for families looking for a well built learning tower that doesnt take up much room but is sturdy and safe. If you're looking for a way to give your child safe access to the counter while protecting your back (and your toddler) from potential injury, a learning tower is the way to go. Some of the other towers took upwards of 45 minutes to assemble so this factor alone earned major points in my book! Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need. As for other positive features, this learning tower is extremely lightweight and easy to store but also has non-skid pads on the bottom for added security. How to afford college preview class with Eryn Schultz -. Wipe it down occasionally since it may get dusty or sticky, depending on how you use it. Seriously. They can use one to wash their hands on their own and generally gain more independence. Little Partners also offers add-on accessories you can purchase separately, like the silicone slip mat which provides a non-slip platform to help prevent falls. There are few better places for toddlers to learn than in the kitchen. Take it away if they do it, remind them verbally, and trust that this phase will eventually pass! For a more budget-friendly option, the Sdadi Adjustable Height Kitchen Step Stool (available at Amazon) is also a great choice. I do think the LP is a little bigger in size, which is why I didnt go with that one since our kitchen is long and narrow. The sector hopes for more passionate writers like you who arent afraid to mention how they believe. This learning tower was one of the tallest among the ones we tested out so while we were not able to store it under our island, it stood completely flush against the island and was very sturdy. If you want your toddler to be able to safely be at counter height with you to cook or to play while you cook, an actual learning tower is a must. I am not familiar with the other brand, Im sorry! Why we love it: Did we mention it folds flat? Hi!! Since the Guidecraft Classic Kitchen Helper is sold out everywhere, would you also recommend the Guidecraft Heartwood Kitchen Helper Stool? Today, Im sharing my favorites to fit a range of budgets and spaces. Another feature I appreciate is that it is designed and fabricated in Brooklyn, New York. But honestly, my kids have unintentionally fallen backwards off of stools enough times that I dont recommend it. Bottomline: This is a great option if you want a tower that can double as a kid-size table and chair set. Designed by a Montessori teacher and mom, the durable and sturdy tower sits flush against the counter making it easy for little ones to cook, rinse, measure and stir with ease. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. But all kidding aside, providing your eager learner with the opportunity to safely get in on the action is invaluable. A version of this story was published June 29, 2021. Could it be the StepnSit from Ette Tete? Is that true? It features three adjustable height settings to 18, 15, and 12, which can be done by pulling the support out instead of using any additional tools. This one is more step stool on steroids than traditional learning tower, but as a short person, its a style I can appreciate. Im Amy, a recipe developer, writer, and mama. And best of all, like all of Piccalio products, its sustainably made from premium birch plywood and pine with a non-toxic finish. Maybe try putting him in the highchair right by you in the kitchen? The pared down design is more like a beefed up step ladder thats sturdy and secure. Little kids love to help and be right with grown ups in the kitchen, and this is the safest way to make that happen. FREE this week only! The plastic design makes it easy to clean if there are any messes, and it would be hard to damage it even with extreme use. The tower features safety rails and handholds, and rounded edges offer additional security. It came nearly fully assembled and it took me just a few minutes to screw on the foot stabilizers. First, thanks for everything you do. Working in Marketing her whole career, she was a Digital Marketing Specialist at Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski for five years before becoming a Program Manager for the University of Rhode Island Foundation & Alumni Engagement. It could be a good investment to get a larger one now. Weve used a learning tower for six months and its one of my daughters favorite spots in the house! We had our IKEA-Hack Learning Tower for 5 years and weve loved itespecially since its very compact and costs under $50 to make since you start with an IKEA stool and build a simple frame on top. This tapers towards the bottom but is less wide than Guidecraft and Learning Partners just as something to keep in mind. Learning towerssometimes called a helper towerare normally a wood or plastic large step tower for toddlers and children to safely stand at counter height and be involved in daily activities such as baking, mixing, preparing food, hands-on situations, or any other fun activities. I suggest measuring the height of your counters and island and then check it against the tower you purchase so youll know that it fits correctly. By This is a great option if you want a dual purpose piece of furniture that your toddler can use again and again. The next morning and for the month that followed, we put a couple of the towers in our kitchen at a time for our son to test and then rotated them out. Then we looked at the tower in general based on its design and size. The kick down step feature is great but I can see it being tricky to figure out for toddlers younger than 18 months. Email us and we'll compare notes. Weve used ours for over 3 years and its incredibly sturdy. The thing that comes to mind when thinking of this learning tower is durability. Theyre usually recommended at 14/16 months and up, or when kids are pretty stable standing up. Another plus is that it serves as a handy step-up for adults as well, so it's useful for hard to reach items in your kitchen. If you are still looking for a learning tower that transform into a table you can check also these products https://www.atvi.eu/en/kids-furniture/learning-tower/multifunctional-4-in-1/. Guidecraft does have a few single helpers in stock at their site guidecraft.com. This slim-design stool is similar to a learning tower, but is sort of streamlined. It would also depend on how much space you have in your kitchen! Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. It also has an attached blackboard, so it can be used as a drawing board, too! Id recommend looking into those since once the kids were about 2/2.5, itd be tight to fit two of them in a single! We especially adore that the Helper Tower converts to a table in just a few simple steps, allowing them a height-appropriate surface to eat, draw, or build. The gold standard of learning towers, Little Partners introduced the original in 1992. If you're selecting a learning tower for an older toddleror you want one that's going to last for quite a few yearsyou'll need to choose one of the larger models that can safely support bigger kids. I personally like the learning towers that Im able to store under my island overhang when not in use, and many of the towers were too tall to do that. Hi Amy! Honestly, both the Guidecraft and the LP options are really great and will last you. Both Guidecraft and Learning Partners make a double, so its wider. 2022 Reviewed, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network LLC. The larger the tower, the more space your child has to move around in. From an IKEA-hack option that starts with a $20 stool to a foldable, yet durable mid-priced option, and the upper tier of learning towers, there is surely one to fit your needs and your budget! If your child is using it unsafelyjumping on it, using it as a ladder to get onto the counter, trying to pull it over, I suggest putting it away for a few days or otherwise limiting their use to reset the behavior. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N5TWNRV. Parents who have one swear by it and Ive heard testimony after testimony speaking to how durable and useful they are for years, and through multiple kids. ), 15 toys we found on Amazon Prime Day that youll want to stash for Christmas, The stroller wagon thats perfect for every family outing is also the Prime Day deal you cant miss. We pulled it right out of the box and could use it immediately. Unfortunately, learning towers with higher weight limits also tend to be bigger and harder to store, which can be a problem if your kitchen is short on space. Thanks! Hi Amy! Yes totally, it is very similar! Use this open step with rails and colorful non-slip treads in the kitchen, bathroom, or playroom. As for other features, the tower is equipped with a blackboard surface for drawing which is an added bonus. (#truestory). I am debating between Guide Kraft and little partners. As a LEED Accredited Professional and longtime contributor to Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn, her focus is on healthy, sustainable living through design. The tower stood flush against my island and was a great sizebig enough for my son to get in and move around but not too large that it took up too much space in my kitchen. It worked wonderfully for our first child. I guess the big difference is that Guide Kraft is foldable which is what I need as we have a small kitchen.. but I saw some reviews that it is not that easy to fold and the base is not sturdy like the one from Little Partners. It can be adjusted to two different heights. This post may contain affiliate links. The tower also does not have a back railing, so if you have a younger toddler who is not steady, there is a risk of falling off the back. Its crafted out of wood and has a beautiful design that looks great in your kitchen. We love how a learning tower, which is essentially a stool with a cage on top to prevent falling, gets toddlers right into the action. The handle on this high-backed step stool was specifically designed for you to be able to move it around the kitchen with ease. From 18 months on, kids are capable of pitching in with age-appropriate chores and cooking. Between the beautiful gray color, aesthetically pleasing and narrow design, this learning tower quickly became a necessity in our kitchen. If you have the space and are looking for a learning tower that can accommodate older children, the Guidecraft Kitchen Helper is a good option.The Guidecraft Tower Step-up Kitchen Helper was one of the larger learning towers we tested. As for the cons, the anti-grip attachment did tend to get a bit dirty but overall the benefit of no-slips is more important. While its hard to store, it sat perfectly flush against our counters and looked great in my kitchen. They need to behave to earn the right to use it. Credit: Little Partners, Little Partners Explore N Store Learning Tower, Craffox Convertible Kitchen Tower for Toddler. They offer a safe way for toddlers to be at kitchen counter height without excessive worry that theyll fall. Thanks so much! When I opened the box, I was extremely pleased to see the tower came fully assembled. I just checked and one I had from a bit ago still works for 15% off its yummy15 to use on their site guidecraftkitchenhelper.com. I recommend any of the ones on this list, other than the DIY IKEA one which would be easier for them to pull over if they are regularly enthusiastically climbing, and be very strict about not allowing them to use the tower as a means to get onto the counter. It comes in a few colors and they also offer accessories like an easel, a busy board, and a nonslip mat to put underneath. Bottomline: This is a nice choice if you want maximum versatility and ease of putting the tower away when not in use. Hi! Sara Goldstein Learning towers encourage involvement, assistance, and help with self-confidence. Thanks! Toddlers can climb in and out of a learning tower on their own, making it something that they can take ownership ofwhich they also love! My son was easily able to figure out how to get in and out of the tower and it stood at a great height at my kitchen island at just 34.5, allowing it to be stored under the counter when not in use. A new addition to the aforementioned Piccalio line up, the Mini Chef Foldable Helper Tower is another great option for families who are short on space or prefer not to leave it out all the time. My favorite tips for getting your littles to enjoy their food! If you have a curious toddler, like I do, you probably spend a lot of time lifting them up and down from the kitchen counter. (Until suddenly, you did.) She does also try to climb the counter tops so we need to adjust the platform but I still recommend these to everyone! Since the Helper Tower can be used starting at 12 months old, we love this extra security net that ensures our littlest of littles stay safe and secure, and dont accidentally fall backwards out of the helper tower. Little Partners Explore n Store Kids Adjustable Step Stool, Best Booster Seats for Toddlers at the Table, https://www.atvi.eu/en/kids-furniture/learning-tower/multifunctional-4-in-1/, Favorite Toddler Smoothie (with Veggies! Its easy to move, easy for toddlers to get in and out of, and is the perfect height for a toddler to stand at the counter. And dont worry theyre as cute as they are safe. As one of the only fold-flat styles on the market, its no surprise we love the Guidecraft Kitchen Helper. The definitive school supply list for every grade, What You Should Know About Learning Towers. If youre going large, it generally would stay in your kitchen at all times since theyre harder to store, so you want to get one you truly love that works well with your space. While this learning tower is extremely sturdy, it was the largest of the towers I tested and took up the most room. Simplay3s learning tower is the smallest in design and the lightest, weighing just 13 pounds. The four-sided railings provide support with your child inside and the additional base support legs attached at the bottom make sure there is no risk of tipping over. All of the fastenings are hidden internally with an adjustable height platform. As for the cons, the learning tower is large like I mentioned. We use your recipes several times a week and would be lost without it! Why we love it:Its easy to use wherever step stools come in handynot just the kitchen. This stools adjustable platform can be put at 2, 16, or 20 inches to accommodate your kitchen helpers height. (Guidecraft makes a mesh cover so you can seal up one of the openings for added security while the kids are in it, for example. As for the negatives, because the tower is so light, it is not as sturdy as others on the market. Hi- Im sorry, I dont have a new one! Unfortunately, most kitchens aren't exactly designed with toddlers in mindthe counter is far above their head, and dangerous things like stovetops and knives aboundbut it's the perfect setting to introduce them to beginning science and math concepts through measuring, pouring, and cooking. Why Learning Towers are So Awesome for Families with Toddlers, Best Tips for Using a Learning Tower with Your Kids. My son had no issues with it, however, and once he learned how it worked, he was going up and down with ease. With an adjustable platform (for three height options) and a foldable design that allows you to easily take this toddler tower in and out of the kitchen, this is another great option from Piccalo. It also sets them on a path to be helpful and involved members of the family. Theres a guard that comes with some of them (like the Guidecraft one) that keeps kids from falling out the back, but its not 100% and Im not sure it would be totally safe for younger kids. https://sprout-kids.com/products/sous-chef-toddler-tower. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Piccalio is known for their swoon-worthy wooden products for kids (think: We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. I love to share a real, inside look at what life is like as a busy mom with two kids, and I share my favorite products, tips, and anything mom-related with others who can relate. It also has three height settings so you can adjust it to fit as your child grows. For small spaces quite convenient is this learning tower which converts to table and chair: It came in a beautiful white color and matched perfectly with our kitchen. declaring toddlers everywhere, these wooden kitchen helpers are the furniture you never knew you needed. This 18 pound tower is made with layered birch and came in an attractive gray color which worked well for my kitchen. There is also an extra wood support piece that sticks out at the bottom at the front of the tower, so unless you have an island with an overhang, there will be a little space in between the tower and the island. My favorite feature on this tower is the fold-up bottom step which makes it a perfect fit for under kitchen counters and islands. If you are looking for a reasonably priced learning tower that is small in design and easy to move around the house, I would recommend the Simplay3 Toddler Tower. I didnt feel completely comfortable letting my son on the tower without me close by. This enclosed tower can be transformed into an easel or playhouse when children are older. And while we love the simplicity of the OG design, this limited edition style improves on the classic. Help from kids in the kitchen has so many benefits: It includes the whole family in meal prep, teaches useful skills, develops early interests in food and healthy eating, and eases the stress of keeping little ones entertained while you work (the work is the entertainment!). And it comes in a few colors. Oh wow! We use your site multiple times a week, and I really appreciate your approach. Touted as a way to help kids up to the sink to wash their hands, this step stool can also get kids closer to the kitchen counter. The Little Partners Explore n Store Learning Tower is a practical option for families looking for a well built learning tower that doesnt take up much room but is sturdy and safe. The Sdadi Adjustable Height Kitchen Step Stool is a budget-friendly option. Get the best deals and the best advice dropped right in your inbox. Why we love it:Multitasking products will always have our hearts. The roomy platform adjusts to four different heights and a 200-pound weight limit means it can easily accommodate two little ones at a time. Why we love it:The back safety rail can be removed when your child grows. I find that my kids prefer some space when were doing activities, so we actually trade off using the same one but that is possibly just based on their personalities. When you open the clips on the side and fold down the upper part with one hand, it turns into a functional table that can be used by two children at a time Out of all the towers I tested, this is the only one that is really two pieces of furniture in one. The Craffox Kitchen Tower is a useful learning tower for toddlers and children with many features. Why we love it: Piccalio offers a vegan leather Guard Net ($34), which provides a protective barrier to the back of the helper tower. My 20 month old is a climber, and man I have never seen a child climb like him!! Can you recommend any for twins? I saw some on Etsy, since guidecraft is still sold out. It doesnt have railings, so its certainly better suited for kids that are 3+. With a four sided railing and the two steps, I felt my son was safe in the learning tower but could still help out and participate in activities at counter height. Im interested in this solution for small spaces and turns to table and chair but the link to amazon didnt work for me.. what is the name of the product? My middle kiddo was like this (I found her scaling bookshelves more than once!) The Franklin+Emily learning tower has three adjustable platform heights at 12, 15, and 18 which is the standard among most on the market. Additionally, developing these skills from an early age helps build self-confidence and knowledge that can make them truly helpful even as a toddler. I havent tried that one and I think it looks okay! Since it is so small, there is not much room for a child to move around once inside, and it was not as sturdy due to the lightweight plastic construction. The more they can reach, the more they can help. Hi Amy, any chance you have another code? Why we love it:The grippy stickers are an excellent touchespecially for kids who love living in socks. Its so nice that you can have them help you in the kitchen, or simply play at the counter while you work, and you dont have to stand right next to them the entire time for fear that theyll fall. Do you have a favorite kitchen stool or platform for your little one? Read More, Franklin+Emily has built a beautiful and sustainable tower thats both useful for your child but also aesthetically pleasing and wont take up a lot of room in your kitchen. The size of your kitchen and how much storage space you have is a huge factor in purchasing a learning tower. This Little Partners toddler learning tower is usually thought of as the Rolls Royce of learning towers. The tower weighs approximately 17 pounds, so its light enough to move around the kitchen or bathroom. For the cons, the plastic may deter someone from purchasing if they are looking for a product that is more sustainable. After testing seven different learning towers with the assistance of my 2-year-old-son, we think that the Little Partners Explore n Store Learning Tower (available at Amazon) is the Best Overall thanks to its compact size and attractive design. Its a solid piece of furniture and each time my son used it, I felt that he was safe and there was no chance it could tip over. Think the brand we ended up going with is kidzworkz. Found on amazon. Why we love it:With a few additional accessories, the tower can easily become a puppet theater,lemonade standor ice cream stand! See https://ettetete.com/?ls=en, Hi! This towers steps are all adjustable, so its suited for a range of ages and heights. Thats great to know, thanks for sharing! Theyre SO useful! This stool is great for toddlers, older kids, and adults alike (it can support up to $159 pounds!). Some took five minutes and others took 30 minutes. Easy to build, super solid and sturdy, this simple learning tower is ideal for smaller kitchens. You cant beat that. Read More, This is a perfect option for someone looking for a learning tower that is narrow in design but has the sturdiness to keep your child safe with each use. The tower easily adjusts to two platform heights to grow with your child and has two hand-holds to assist in climbing up and down. And so I know where to keep things out of reach. Like any furniture they can climb on, toddler towers need to be used on an even surface. They can easily climb up to help but you dont have to worry about a misstep sending them sliding out the side. Its so cool, is what it is. (My 4.5 year old uses ours regularly.). Its one of the more narrow designs weve found, measuring only 19 inches wide and features a clever folding step that makes it easy for kiddos to get in and out on their own. While I appreciate the look and design of the leather strap, my son would often hang on it when he was getting off of it so I was afraid it would rip off. And, the more they can reach, the more they can help. It has a built-in handle that makes it easy to move around your kitchen (and house!). (You can add a second for a friend or sibling for an additional cost.) Plus, you can fold it flat for storage and it comes with a mesh back to prevent falls. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. With the addition of an activity center which includes a chalkboard, paper holder and shelf, it adds even more utilityimportant for a piece of furniture that takes up a fair amount of real estate. Some more open designs are better suited for ages 3+, however, most manufacturers recommend them for 18 months and up.