toddler cutting vegetable on a learning tower

What is a Toddler Learning Tower and How to Choose the Best Fit for Your Family

Purchasing a toddler learning tower has undoubtedly been the best decision I’ve made, and I can’t imagine navigating motherhood without it. The kitchen tower has filled our home with joyful moments of laughter, triumph, and, of course, a bit of toddler chaos! But the best part has been teaching my son to be a contributing member of the family by involving him in the kitchen.

What Is a Toddler Learning Tower?

A toddler learning tower is an elevated platform that helps young children safely reach countertops and other raised surfaces. Most of these toddler towers are made of wood, providing durability and sturdiness to support little ones as they explore and engage in various activities.

When Is the Best Age for a Learning Tower?

Every child hits milestones at their own pace, so there’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to the ideal age for a toddler tower. However, at about 12–14 months of age, children are observed to help others at home and through simple actions, such as handing things to people, and pointing with their fingers. So if you begin to observe these cues, that means your little one could potentially be ready to benefit from a learning tower.

Why a Learning Tower Matters for Your Child’s Growth

A learning tower offers tremendous benefits for your little one’s social and physical development, encouraging them to engage in hands-on tasks like washing vegetables, cutting soft fruits, spreading peanut butter on toast, using cookie cutters and whisking up cake mix.

toddler whisking cake mix using a learning tower

These everyday activities empower our toddlers and help build their confidence. But the sweetest part of having a kitchen helper is that it strengthens the bond between parent and child, keeping them engaged and making them feel like a valued part of the family.

How to Pick the Best Learning Tower For Your Needs

So, listen…I know you’ve probably scrolled through a ton of learning towers online and are feeling a bit overwhelmed about which one to choose. Trust me, I get it—some of these can really be an investment! To help you out, here are a few simple guidelines to keep in mind as you look for the perfect tower for your needs.

👶For small kitchens, a foldable tower is a game changer.
👶If you want to fit the tower under a countertop, take measurements beforehand.
👶For toddlers who love to climb, steer clear of towers with cutouts on the sides.
👶If you want to get the most usage of your learning tower, go for a convertible option.
👶If you choose a plastic tower but are concerned about stability, add anti-slip pads for extra support.
👶If you want your tower to grow with your child, choose one that has an adjustable height feature.
👶If you’re on the fence about any option because your little one is still learning to stand, add a safety net to prevent falls.

The Best Toddler Learning Towers in 2024

Here are the best picks.

Unlock your little one’s gateway to fun learning and cooking with this space-saving Folding Toddler Step Stool.

Satisfied Customer Review:
We LOVE this kitchen stool! It is easy for my toddler to climb up and down on his own. Folds up nice and compact so it doesn’t take up space when not in use. Highly recommend this one over the more “aesthetically pleasing” trendy wooden ones that you can’t hide away.

For parents of two, the Little Partners Learning Tower is the perfect size. Just add a safety net on the sides for extra security, and you’re all set!

Satisfied Customer Review:
I just love this early Christmas present we received and all of the memories that will be made with it for years to come. I have two toddlers, and them on their stools was too risky and stressful to ever have any real fun in the kitchen. We have already made and decorated Christmas cookies 🙂 couldn’t be happier.

Let your toddler reach new heights of imagination with this chalk and whiteboard learning tower, which is also adjustable.

Satisfied Customer Review:
Our kids LOVE this stool! It’s super nice to be able to adjust it to certain heights. Both our 2 and 4 year old fit perfectly. It’s sturdy too. The chalkboard and dry erase board are a plus and our kids love to use them! And it’s even cooler that it comes with erasers for them. It’s not too heavy and was easy to put together!

This beautifully crafted Kitchen Helper Tower and Step Stool complements any Montessori household with its sleek, clean design.

Satisfied Customer Review:
My two year old loves this. It is sturdy (I actually use it as a step stool a lot to reach higher shelves) and it looks nice in our kitchen and allows my son to eat at the counter, help cook, and was his hands. It gives him confidence and independence. We are very happy with this purchase!

Learning doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag! Try this affordable, space-saving tower that ensures your little one’s safety while they explore.

Satisfied Customer Review:
This product is very light weight and easy to use. I was looking for something a lot like a toddler tower, but more affordable and that could be stored away when not used. This stool is that! My daughter can easily climb up and stand safely at the counter, table, or etc.It is very sturdy and locks into place. Love this product!

Another excellent choice that won’t break the bank is this natural wood standing tower with anti-drop railing. You get the durability and safety you need without sacrificing quality!

Satisfied Customer Review:
After months of researching a toddler tower/kitchen stool, I finally pulled the trigger on this one. I have to say I’m so happy with this purchase! The build quality, ease of use and size are all perfect! We are able to tuck it under our kitchen counter when not in use (this was a huge factor when trying to decide between a foldable option or this one). I didn’t want to spend over $100 on a stool especially not knowing how often my son would use it. The value for the money spent was exactly what I was looking for! 

If you’re seeking a less bulky option with ample room for your child, check out this delightful learning tower by Little Partners—perfect for maximizing your kitchen space.

Satisfied Customer Review:
Such a compact and cute learning tower. Fits right below our counter for easy access to pull it out or pull it in. I am in love!

One of the best and most popular choices is the Guidecraft Kitchen Helper. It folds flat, has an adjustable height, and is extremely secure—truly the whole package!

Satisfied Customer Review:
I have been looking for a kitchen helper for my daughter. We really want her to learn to help in the kitchen at a young age, from just watching, to doing sensory activities, and much more. This Kitchen Helper has surpassed all my expectations. I love how the keepers and the secure design keep it stylish but super safe. My favorite part is the easy fold and storage.

Keep your little one busy with this handy 4-in-1 Foldable Kitchen Tower. It effortlessly transforms into a table set with chair and has a built in chalkboard.

Satisfied Customer Review:
Five stars! Our Avenlur Date Kitchen Tower is the ultimate toddler multi-tasker! My little one loves climbing up to help me cook, then transforming it into a desk for reading or drawing. It’s sturdy, safe, and incredibly versatile. The foldable design is a bonus for easy storage. If you’re looking for a way to engage your little one in the kitchen and beyond, this is a must-have!

Conclusion

I hope you found this article helpful in understanding the wonderful benefits a learning tower can offer your little one.

So, what’s next? Once you’ve chosen the perfect learning tower for your family, I encourage you to start incorporating fun activities at home. Begin with simple tasks, like using plastic knife sets for your toddler to cut vegetables. From there, you can introduce toddler baking tools to make the experience more enjoyable. Embrace this journey together, and remember, we’re all continually learning!

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