The Montessori Learning Tower: Why it should be present in every family
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Children naturally want to participate, observe, and learn. Even at the age of one, they show interest in accompanying their parents in everyday activities – whether it's cooking, brushing teeth, or setting the table. However, the kitchen or bathroom is not always child-safe, and balancing on a chair is dangerous.
Here comes the Montessori learning tower into play – a safe, stable piece of furniture that enables children to actively participate in family life while ensuring their safety.
In this article, you will learn:
- What a Montessori learning tower is
- What advantages it offers
- From what age it is sensible
- What to consider when buying
- How it can be used in everyday life
- What alternatives and extensions are available
What is a Montessori learning tower?
A Montessori learning tower is a height-adjustable platform with a railing that provides children with independent and safe access to work surfaces – such as the kitchen countertop or the sink.
The concept is based on Montessori pedagogy, which promotes independence, initiative, and practical learning in everyday life (Montessori Germany）.
Unlike a normal stool, the learning tower offers protection all around, so children cannot easily fall down. Many models are made of solid wood and can be adjusted to the child's size.
Advantages of the Montessori Learnworld
1. Safety in Everyday Life
Children want to participate, but chairs and stools are often wobbly. The learning tower is stable, tip-proof, and specially designed for children.
2. Promotion of Independence
Children can independently reach the table, the work surface, or the sink – without constantly being lifted.
3. Motor Development
Climbing, holding on, and balancing promote a sense of balance and coordination.
4. Educational value
The learning tower adheres to Montessori principles: “Help me to do it myself.” Children are active participants and not just spectators.
5. Social integration
Cooking or baking together strengthens the bond and makes children proud of their contributions.
At what age is a Montessori learning tower suitable?
Most learning towers can be used from about 12 months, as soon as the child can stand securely. Many parents use it until the age of 5-6 years, depending on size and weight.
Some models can even be converted into a small table or chair later – which extends their usability.
Everyday situations with the learning tower
In the kitchen
- Cutting and tasting fruit
- Washing vegetables
- Kneading or stirring dough
Here you will also find our Montessori Learnworld, that offers children similar motor and creative support.
In the bathroom
- Independently brushing teeth
- Learning to wash hands
- Self-examination in the mirror without help
In the living room
- When crafting or painting at eye level with parents
- As an observation place while working
What to consider when buying a Montessori Learning Tower?
Material & workmanship
- Solid wood instead of plastic
- Rounded edges, splinter-free
- Water-based, non-toxic colors
Safety
- Tip-proof construction
- Non-slip standing area
- Grid or railing
Adjustability
- Height adjustable, grows with
- Convertible to table/chair
Design
- Timeless, fits with furniture
- Space-saving
Montessori Learnworld vs. conventional stool
| Criterion | Learning Tower | Stool/Chair |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | All-round protection, tip-proof | High risk of falling |
| Independence | Child climbs independently | Parents must help |
| Durability | Adjustable, robust | quickly too small |
| Educational value | Promotes development actively | Only passive standing possible |
DIY or buy?
Some parents build the learning tower themselves, often based on IKEA stools. But caution: Safety comes first. Those who are not handy are better off with a tested model.
In our shop Montessori Learnworld you will find high-quality learning towers made of wood, tested and safe for children from 1 year.
Development advantages in detail
Motor skills
- Balance and coordination through independent climbing
- Grasping, holding, and standing on a stable base
Cognitive promotion
- Cause and effect: "When I stir, the dough changes"
- Initiative: "I can do it myself"
Social and emotional development
- Shared family experience
- Proud of homemade results
Montessori Learnworld learning tower as a gift idea
The learning tower is ideal for:
- Birthdays
- Christmas
- Baptisms
- Moving into the new home
It is a durable gift that does not end up in the corner after a few weeks, but remains in use for years.
Alternative Montessori furniture
In addition to the learning tower, there are other pieces of furniture that make everyday life easier:
- Montessori activity table – for creative and motor play
- Montessori bookshelf – for independent access to books
- Montessori bed – for independent sleeping
The Montessori Learnworld learning tower is more than just a piece of furniture – it is an educational tool that gives children safety, independence, and joy in participating.
It promotes motor, cognitive, and social development and makes everyday life easier for parents.
For families looking for durable, sustainable, and educationally valuable solutions, the learning tower is an investment worth making.