There's a moment every parent knows: your little one tugging at your leg, desperate to see what's happening on the counter. A kitchen helper tower turns that moment into a shared one. Your child can wash vegetables, stir the batter and watch you cook, at your height, in their own space. Used well it is also one of the safest ways to bring a toddler to the counter, and learning tower safety comes down to a few simple habits.

In Montessori terms, this is practical life at its best. Children build motor skills, concentration and confidence by taking part in real family tasks. But a tower only does its job when it is used safely. Here is how.

Set it up right

• Against the counter, always. Place the tower flush against a fixed, stable countertop, with the step side facing out toward the room.
• On a flat, level floor, away from stairs, doors and windows.
• Adjust the platform so the counter sits comfortably at your child's working height.
• Check the hardware before each use and tighten anything that has loosened.

Getting in: how the safety rails work

Our learning tower has removable safety rails on the step side. For new walkers and climbers:

1. Remove the safety rails.
2. Help your child up the steps onto the platform. Many parents simply lift their child in at first.
3. Put the rails back in place once your child is standing on the platform.
4. To get out, remove the rails and help your child climb down.

Growing independence, one rail at a time

The tower is designed to grow with your child. Once your little one climbs the steps steadily and confidently, you can leave the first rail off so they can get in and out more on their own, and later the next one. There is no set age for this. Follow your child's development, and take each step only when you feel they are ready.

The golden rules

• An adult present, always, including while your child climbs in and out.
• Steps only. Children should climb in and out using the steps, never the sides or the counter side. Like any piece of children's furniture, a tower can tip if it is climbed from the wrong side (more on what keeps a tower steady).
• One child at a time.
• No pushing or leaning out. Teach your child to stay centred on the platform.
• Out of reach when not in use, so it does not become a climbing frame when no one is watching.

If your child tries to climb from the side or the counter side, gently guide them back to the steps. It quickly becomes a routine.

When to stop and check

If the tower ever wobbles, feels unstable or has loose hardware, stop using it and contact us. We are always happy to help. For more on what makes a tower stable in the first place, see are learning towers safe.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can my child use a learning tower on their own?
There is no set age. Most toddlers start using a tower around 18 months with an adult lifting them in, and grow into getting in and out on their own over the following months and years. Follow your child's steadiness and confidence rather than a birthday, and keep an adult present.

Can a learning tower tip over?
Like any piece of children's furniture, a tower can tip if a child climbs it from the wrong side. Used correctly, flush against the counter, entered by the steps, with your child centred on the platform, it is stable and secure. Always supervise.

Can I leave my child in the tower alone?
No. An adult should be present the whole time the tower is in use, including while your child climbs in and out. When it is not in use, keep it out of reach so it does not become something to climb unsupervised.

Ready when your toddler is

A learning tower turns 'watch me' into 'help me', safely. Browse our learning tower collection to find the right fit for your kitchen.

Questions? Write to us at info@little-treasures.ca or text us at 1-873-569-8131.