Guidecraft Kitchen Helper

• "Lightweight, Easier to Move"
• Geometric cut-outs add to the fun
• Folding Design for Easy Storage
• Sturdy and Safety Tested Design
• Chalk Board and White Board Surfaces

Great Concept, Lousy Execution:
We were excited about the idea of our two-year-old being included in out kitchen activities (instead of parked in front of a computer or TV screen), so this item and the Learning Tower both seemed to be the answer. The foldaway feature and white-/chalk-boards, as well as the lower price, led us to the Kitchen Helper. While it's been very popular and used frequently each day, it's not wearing well after just 4-5 weeks. Workmanship is poor, with some hinges installed in positions where they block the panels from opening fully, which in turn prevent one of the two security latches from closing, to keep the structure locked open for safety. With use, ALL of the allen-wrench bolts used require tightening about once a week. The simple assembly originally seemed a blessing, but now we've learned that pieces can turn slightly out of place, which makes the Kitchen Helper appear to be sloppily constructed/assembled. We've also had problems with water affecting the wood finish (if it's been sealed, I can't tell); my son spends much time using it at the kitchen sink and water spills have darkened the wood in places and seem to absorb into it, which will shorten its life. We've also had some of the plywood veneer chip off of the platform with only gentle (shoeless) use). Last, the "feet" that attach to each of the legs just aren't big or strong enough to truly prevent toppling of the tower. A child who pushes away from a countertop or work surface could easily knock it over if the legs snagged on carpet or caught on an uneven wood floor. The concept is great...anything that keeps kids engaged with kitchen activities and involved with mom or dad is a winning idea. But the design, construction and materials of the Kitchen Helper make it a purchase that has only disappointed us.

Good Product, But Not Perfect!:
It is a good product for the price. I use it to help my 1 1/2 years old wash her hands before and after meals. It is pretty stable, much safer than step stools. Most of the step stools won't give her enough height that she needs at this point. BUT be aware--YES, it can be folded if you are MOVING! There is a screw that you have remove before the base board can be lift up for folding. So, it is NOT designed to be folded if you plan to use it several times a day on a regular basis, and it will take out a good chunck of space in your kitchen. BTW, I believe both the Learning Tower and Kitchen Helper are in fact manufactured by the same company.

Mama's Helper!:
For those of us with a small kitchen and a spirited child, the Kitchen Helper is a gift from heaven. It folds up easily (and can be done one handed, in fact!), and is light and easy to move. My daughter absolutely loves helping me cook dinner and bake cookies, and is much more content being up at counter height. Two sides are open with a handrail at the top, and two sides are more "protected" with solid panels with cutouts in the side. When I push it up to the counter, only one side remains open, for my daughter to climb in and out . . . and because the other sides are more "solid" there's less potential for falling out. I would recommend this to ANYONE with a child!

Kitchen Helper:
This is a really great product! My little one loves to be in the kitchen with me and now loves to be able to see what mommy is cooking and "helping" with the dishes (actually playing in the water). There are times when water gets everywhere and I'm noticing the wood is not water resistant which is why I'm not giving this 5 stars. Any suggestions on safely making it water proof would be greatly appreciated.

Great idea and not too big:
I bought this for my three-year-old niece who loves to help in the kitchen. It provides piece of mind to her mom who does not have to stand by as she might topple off a chair, and the item isn't so large that it takes up too much space. Also, when not in use, it folds up neatly and will fit in a closet or empty corner. The fact that it can be adjusted to adapt to a growing child is perfect.