[.ca] Guidecraft Kitchen Helper

• Childproof folding design
• Foldable for easy storage
• Lightweight design
• Sturdy wooden construction
• Attractive maple toned finish

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.

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.

I need assembly help!:
I know that doesn't seem possible but I just received this for a grandchild and there were no instructions with it of any description. If the eight leg pieces were the same size it would be a no-brainer but two of them are slimmer and I don't have a clue where they are supposed to be placed. Any help would be so welcome.

Great for Mommy's Little Helper:
We love this kitchen helper. Our son can easily get in and out on his own (which he LOVES) and he is at the perfect level to help mix, stir, and prepare many things in the kitchen. He loves to help do anything and this helps him be part and reduces my fear of him falling off a chair or some other device. It is very sturdy and made well. I can foresee us enjoying it for years to come and with our second child as well.