Learning towers are an essential tool for helping your toddler explore their environment in a safe and secure way. They are also known as Kitchen helper towers, Montessori towers, or step stools - but no matter what you call them, they're a must-have for any home with toddlers. They allow your child to reach the countertops, helping them to be part of the action in the kitchen. They also give them the extra height they need to explore the world around them.
What is the Montessori Learning Tower?
Learning towers are a great tool to help your child learn and grow. They provide a safe space for the child to explore and be involved in all sorts of home activities, like cooking, personal hygiene, or cleaning. They are also popular among the Montessori community who believe that children are naturally eager to learn, and are capable of learning many skills, such as using kitchen utensils with the help of a learning tower.
Montessori towers are the perfect option for a helping hand in the kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom with a wide array of uses. They give young children a supportive boost to explore their creativity, engage in everyday activities and gain autonomy in their learning journey.
Moreover, allowing kids to help around the house is a great way to encourage independence, curiosity and creativity. It also provides opportunities for children to have a great interest in exploring the things around them. As they grow, their curiosity also increases, and it is all up to you how you organize the environment to meet their needs.
Overall, Learning Tower is a great option for parents who want a safe, sturdy, and versatile way for their children to learn and grow. Compared to a regular stool or chair, learning towers offer more stability and security and have the following advantages:
- Adjustable height – Allows your child to comfortably reach the countertops and other areas that are typically out of reach.
- Anti-slip steps – Enables your child to climb in and out of the tower safely and independently.
- Large platform – Accommodates two children so they can learn and explore together.
- Durable and sturdy construction – Made out of wood or plastic for long-lasting use.
- Versatility – Can be used as a chair, a stepping stool, or even a small table.
- Slim and compact design – Fits into small spaces and can easily be stored when not in use.
- Encourages independence and curiosity – Allows your child to explore their environment in a safe and fun manner.
- Promotes safety – Keeps your child away from potential hazards such as sharp objects, hot surfaces, and objects that could be pulled down on them.
- Variety of colors and designs – A great way to make learning fun.
What Are the Benefits of Learning Tower vs Regular Stool?
Learning towers are an excellent option for children who want to explore their environment in a safe and fun manner. They provide a sturdy and adjustable platform for children to reach countertops, sinks, and other surfaces that are typically out of reach. Most learning towers come with anti-slip steps for safe climbing, so children can access the tower by themselves.
The versatility of learning towers makes them a great choice for parents who want to encourage their children’s independence and curiosity. They can be used as a chair, a stepping stool, or even a small table, and they can last for many years as children grow and develop.
However, learning towers are not meant for extended use outside of sitting, so caution should be taken when using them for other purposes. They can also take up a lot of space depending on the design, so if space is an issue, it’s best to find a model that is slim and compact and, perhaps, foldable.
Overall, learning towers are a great way to involve your child in kitchen activities and other tasks. They provide a safe and accessible platform for children’s exploration and growth, and they can last for many years as they grow and develop.
o Learning Tower is SAFER
Toddler towers are the perfect option for a helping hand in the kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom. They can provide a safe and secure space for your toddler to explore and practice new motor skills. Many towers come with a built-in safety net and can be made of plywood, solid wood, or even fold up for more convenience. The four sides help to keep your toddler from falling while they are up at the counter or higher surface. With this, you can create an environment that is both safe and fun for your toddler. Additionally, the adjustable platform allows the tower to grow with your child, making it a great investment for the future.
o The Kitchen Helper Teaches INDEPENDENCE
Learning towers are an excellent tool for fostering independence in children. These towers allow children to reach countertops, sinks, and other areas that are usually out-of-reach, giving them a greater sense of control and power. This newfound independence can lead to improved motor skills and a boost in self-confidence. Learning towers also provide a safe and secure place for children to explore and play, while encouraging a love for learning. With a learning tower, children can easily navigate their home and build a sense of independence.
o You Spend More QUALITY TIME TOGETHER
Learning stools provide a great way for children to build independence by participating in household tasks. Toddlers love to be in the kitchen, helping with tasks and feeling like they are part of the family. Cooking is an especially enjoyable activity for young children and a great way for families to bond. Learning stools allow toddlers to reach the sink easily and help with tasks like washing vegetables or fruits. These stools allow children to help out and gain a sense of independence while still being safe. They are also a great way to encourage learning and create a positive and joyful atmosphere at home.
o The Kitchen Helper Creates an Opportunity for EXPOSURE to New Foods
Learning towers are an excellent way to help toddlers become involved in cooking activities while also teaching them about self-reliance. The tower is designed to be safe and secure, preventing the child from getting injured while still allowing them to learn and explore at their own pace. It is a great way to get your little one interested in cooking, while also teaching them important safety rules. Learning towers provide a wonderful opportunity for parents to teach their children about safety and help them become independent in the kitchen.
o Use the Learning Tower for MANY ACTIVITIES
Learning stools are a great tool for families, whether they are following Montessori principles or not. Montessori education is all about giving children the opportunity to participate in day-to-day activities, and learning stools help make that possible. These stools offer a safe way for toddlers to reach countertops and other areas that are usually out of reach, giving them a sense of control and power. This newfound independence can lead to improved motor skills and a boost in self-confidence. Furthermore, learning stools provide a secure place for children to explore and play, while encouraging a love for learning. With a learning stool, children can easily navigate their home and build a sense of independence.
Here are some reasons why learning towers are awesome for families with toddlers:
- They provide a safe way for toddlers to be at kitchen counter height without worry.
- They allow toddlers to be part of the action in the kitchen.
- They are a great spot for toddlers to stand when they are helping with cooking.
- Toddlers can climb in and out of the learning tower independently.
- They can use it to gain more independence, such as washing their hands.
Best Learning Towers for Toddlers
o IKEA-Hack Learning Tower
Pros of the IKEA - Hack Learning Tower:
- Compact size;
- Low cost;
- Easy to move;
- Easy for toddlers to get in and out of;
- Perfect height for a toddler to stand at the counter.
Cons of the IKEA - Hack Learning Tower:
- Not as stable as other learning towers due to its design;
- Easily toppled over by a climber;
- Skinny and narrow, making it more prone to falling over.
o Classic Kitchen Helper Stool by GUIDECRAFT
This foldable plywood learning tower is a great option for those with limited space, as it can be easily stored away when not in use. Its adjustable height allows it to grow with your child, and the included non-slip mat and two safety nets which provide additional security. Available in multiple colors and styles, it is a great addition to any home. During testing, it proved to be an ideal choice for all families.
o Toddler Tower Children's Step Stool by SIMPLAY3
This plastic learning tower could be a great choice for smaller spaces, as it is easy to transport and take up minimal space. It is easy to assemble and has three adjustable heights, making it suitable for various ages. Additionally, it is a cost-effective option compared to other learning towers. After use, it can be stowed away under island counters to save even more space. However, its plastic construction means it only supports a smaller weight capacity.
o WoodandHearts transformable kitchen helper
Our Montessori Tower Stool is designed to empower and develop your child into a successful adult. This piece of furniture is suitable for children aged 8 months to 6 years old and can hold up to 60 kilos (133 pounds), making it a reliable and safe option for parents. From a Montessori point of view, this Learning Tower will allow your child to keep climbing as they grow up and can be used in multiple ways as a Kitchen Helper Tower, as a Step Stool, or as a seat with a table for various activities. Additionally, the convertible parts can be rearranged to transform the Tower into a table, giving your child their own personal space for learning, playing, or eating a snack.
The Learning Tower is made from sturdy natural materials, so you can be sure it is safe for your child to use. It is also a great way for your child to gain confidence and independence in the kitchen, as it will allow them to help you with tasks like stirring ingredients or frosting cookies. With the Learning Tower, your child can learn basic kitchen skills safely and confidently.
o WoodandHearts learning chair
This variant of our multifunctional stool can be used as a kitchen helper, desk table, or to take a seat whenever and wherever needed. It is not transformable, but can be folded to take less space. It is made from high-class polished birch plywood and beech wood, making it very strong and flexible. As well as all the furniture at our store, it is also coated with high-quality, sustainable, water-based and environmentally friendly varnish or paints, making it non-allergenic and free of any harmful substances.
What Age Should You Start Using a Learning Tower?
When it comes to using a learning tower, the age you should start depends on your child’s individual development. Most children are ready to use a learning tower when they can stand flat and steady on their feet, usually around 18 months. However, some parents start introducing their children to learning towers as early as 9 months. With proper supervision and safety precautions, you can decide when it is right for your child to start using a learning tower.
When introducing a learning tower, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind. Always inspect the learning tower before use to make sure it is in good condition and free of any damaged or loose parts. Be sure to secure the tower to the floor or counter to avoid any slipping or tipping. Also, make sure your child is supervised at all times when using the learning tower.
When using your learning tower, it is important to ensure your child is comfortable and secure. Make sure the platform of the tower is wide enough for your child’s feet and that it is at the correct height for them to reach the counter or sink. You can also add cushions or a chair pad to make the tower more comfortable.
Finally, make sure your child is familiar and comfortable with the learning tower before allowing them to use it. Introduce the tower in a fun and engaging way and allow them to explore and get to know it. This will help them feel more comfortable and safe when they start using it. With the right safety precautions and a comfortable and secure learning tower, you can enjoy involving your child in kitchen activities.
What to Pay Attention to When Buying a Learning Tower
When choosing a learning tower for your child, there are several factors to consider. These include:
- Height: Make sure that it is high enough to match the height of your countertops and other locations where your child will be using it.
- Stability and Safety: Check the stability and make sure that the kitchen helper has some safety features, such as a guardrail, to prevent accidents.
- Weight Limit: Make sure that it can support the weight of your child, plus any materials they'll be using while they're in the tower.
- Features: Consider the features of a particular learning tower, such as built-in storage, adjustable heights, foldability, or transformation into other necessary objects.
Additionally, when choosing a learning tower for your child you should also consider whether it is age-appropriate, easy to clean, and made from safe materials. Don’t forget to look for a learning tower that is sturdy, has a wide base, a smooth, non-slip surface, and features that are suitable for your child’s level of development. Age-appropriateness is especially important as it is important for the learning tower to be suitable for a child’s development level. It is also important to make sure that the learning tower is easy to clean, as it may come into contact with food or other substances. Finally, it is essential to check that the learning tower is made from safe materials, such as non-toxic or non-allergenic materials and check the manufacturer’s instructions for use and safety to ensure that you are using the learning tower in the correct manner. By taking these considerations into account when selecting a learning tower, you can ensure that your child will be safe and have a positive experience.