For Rosie’s first birthday, my dad and stepmom got her this Guide Craft Kitchen Helper. This item was not on my radar at all (had no idea what it even was!) but has ended up being our most used item in the past 2 months! My dad’s colleague recommended this to my dad because she has a toddler who LOVES their Kitchen Helper. My dad thought it would be the perfect birthday gift for Rosie and he was right! I’ve talked a little bit about our Kitchen Helper on Instagram, but I thought it deserved it’s own post! I also have been a few bloggers talking about a different learning tower on Instagram (that is way not as good as this one!) so I wanted to spread the word as to why you need the Kitchen Helper brand of learning tower.
What is a Learning Tower?
A learning tower is essentially a stepping stool that has a cage around it so that your toddler can safely be at the height of your kitchen counter. Your toddler can help you in the kitchen, play, or just watch. A Kitchen Helper is the model of learning tower that we have and it’s the best (in my opinion!)
It’s recommended for toddlers (I think 18 months to 3 is probably ideal?) Rosie started using a learning tower at 12 months, but she was walking and very comfortable standing, and I felt very confident with her being in a learning tower at that age.
Why Should I Get One for My Toddler?
Like I said, I did not know this was something that I needed until I had it! The biggest benefits for our family are:
- Safety – Not only do you not have to worry about your child falling off a stool, but it contains them so they don’t get into anything dangerous in the kitchen. It is also way safer than letting your toddler sit on the counter! Ours also has a non-slip mat so they won’t slip and fall on their butt. I also feel totally comfortable stepping away for a second and knowing she will be totally fine.
- Family Time – I like that Rosie and I spend fun quality time together in the kitchen. When I am cooking or cleaning, she is having a snack, drawing, or playing. Instead of just putting her in front of a screen, or worrying about her getting into something, she is happy and playing in her tower.
- Fine Motor Skills – While Rosie is standing in the Kitchen Helper, I try to have her do things to improve her fine motor skills. She is very into coloring with these Water Wow pads. I also attempt to have her pour ingredients, stir, etc. I know this will only get better with age, but we are trying!
- Life Skills – What better way to start to teach your toddler about cooking and cleaning than having them watch you? Rosie is not at the age where she is really doing this, but I know she watches my every move. You can also move it over to the sink and they can wash their hands (with some help!)
Why is the Kitchen Helper Better?
- Collapsible – The biggest complaint I see from moms on learning towers is that they don’t have anywhere to put it. The Kitchen Helper is collapsible! When you have a party, company over, whatever, you can store it in a closet! It is even flat enough to go underneath a bed or something. Some of the other models are solid wood (and thus don’t collapse), but what you get in quality with those other models, you lack in practicality (again, in my opinion).
- Safety Net – The Kitchen Helper is only open on one side (you put that side against your cabinets) and the back side has a safety net. I do not worry about her falling out of any of the sides of this thing. I see others that are open on ALL SIDES?! Unless your kid is already in grade school, I don’t see why you would want one like this.
Any Downsides to this Model?
The Kitchen Helper is a little pricier compared to others I have seen in the market. That being said, this is something that you will use for YEARS. The platform is adjustable to work for older kids, and you will use this for every kid. In my opinion, it makes sense to splurge on items that you will use over and over again. Also, this model is collapsible (as I mentioned) which is worth the extra money!
