As your little one grows, you may find them wanting to be a part of the work you do around the house. Rather than trying to find ways to keep them busy while you cook or clean the kitchen counters, why not invite them to join in. A toddler tower is a great way to incorporate your child into everyday tasks that may seem boring to you but are new and novel to them.
What Are the Signs Your Child is Ready for a Toddler Tower?
A toddler tower is an elevated structure that allows a small child access to counters and other things generally at the height of an adult’s waist. Parents use them to incorporate their children into daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning in the kitchen. These towers allow little ones to feel involved and they are a great way to keep small children engaged. It can be daunting to know when your child is ready for a toddler tower.
Developmental Physical Therapist, Olivia Reyes, says before making your purchase there are a few signs of readiness to look for in your child.
- Walking independently
- Comfortable walking up and down stairs
- Can safely get on and off furniture
- Show interest in what you are doing in the kitchen.
As for features of a toddler tower that you’ll want, Reyes says look for towers that are heavy and sturdy, have an adjustable foot rest, can accommodate a growing toddler, hit above the child’s belly button and have a wide standing platform.
21Ninety has rounded up some of the best toddler towers on the market.
- Best Overall: Guidecraft Contemporary Kitchen Helper
- Best for Older Toddlers: Lalo The Tower
- Best for Storing Away: Avenlur Date 4-in-1 Foldable Tower
- Best Value: Cosyland Kid’s Kitchen Step Stool
- Best Multi-functional: JUZBOT Toddler Tower
Best Overall
The Guidecraft Contemporary Kitchen helper gets so much right. This toddler tower is rated extremely well with 4.8 out of five stars. It’s light weight and adjustable so it can grow with your child. It’s made for toddlers 18 months and older. The tower is made from a combination of solid wood and birch plywood and is non-toxic. It includes a nonslip mat as an extra layer of security. Reviewers say it’s simple to put together, durable and easy to clean.
Best for Older Toddlers
If you are a lover of minimalism and sleek design, Lalo’s The Tower, will likely appeal to you. The popular brand is known for it’s minimalistic approach to children’s items and the tower can seamlessly be incorporated into your kitchen. It’s also non-toxic and made of sustainable birch. The toddler tower is also easy to wipe down when messes happen in the kitchen. Reviewers call it elegant however some do point out that its sleek design makes it feel less safe for smaller toddlers. Consider this option if your child is a little older and stable on their feet.
Best for Storing Away
Many parents deal with anxiety over the clutter that children’s items can bring to the home. This Avenlur Date Tower is a great option if you like to keep your space as clutter free as possible. The 4-in-1 step transforms into a chalkboard, desk table, and chair. When you are done using it, easily fold it up and store it away.
Best Value
With most towers ringing in at more than $100, this Cosyland Kid’s Kitchen Step Stool is a great affordable option. With 4.4 stars, reviewers feel it’s a great value for the price and feels sturdy. One review does mention that it does not fold. Still, at $79.99 it’s a great option at this price point. The stool includes a removable gate to keep your child secure and has non-slip feet.
Best Multifunctional
Talk about bells and whistles. This toddler tower offers a variety of activities to keep your little one busy even when they aren’t playing sous chef in the kitchen. As a tower it includes three solid sides and a security net at the back. It also comes with a detachable two-step stool that makes getting on and off the tower simple for little ones. On the exterior of the tower, there are five Montessori activities, including a clock, gears, magnetic maze, chalkboard, and whiteboard. Another added bonus, it’s foldable for easy storage.