The best Montessori-inspired furniture to foster your toddler’s independence

Piccalio is known for their swoon-worthy wooden products for kids (think: balance beam, pikler triangle and balance board), so it’s no surprise that their ever-popular Mini Chef Convertible Kitchen Helper Tower features a similar wow-worthy modern design. The Helper Tower features three height options and is designed to encourage independence and self-confidence as your mini-me gets the extra leg up they need to brush their teeth, help you in the kitchen, or peek out the window at the garbage truck. We especially adore that the Helper Tower converts to a table in just a few simple steps, allowing them a height-appropriate surface to eat, draw, or build. Additionally, Piccalio offers a vegan leather Guard Net ($34), which provides a protective barrier to the back of the helper tower. Since the Helper Tower can be used starting at 12 months old, we love this extra security net that ensures our littlest of littles stay safe and secure, and don’t accidentally fall backwards out of the helper tower.

As one of the only fold-flat styles on the market, it’s no surprise we love the Guidecraft Kitchen Helper. The netted side clips in place to keep them from tumbling out while a non-slip mat gives extra peace of mind. It can be adjusted to two different heights and features a chalkboard on one side and a whiteboard on the other to keep them busy even when they aren’t standing inside!

Why we love it: Did we mention it folds flat? Seriously. You can’t beat that.

The gold standard of learning towers, Little Partners introduced the original in 1992. And while we love the simplicity of the OG design, this limited edition style improves on the classic. With the addition of an activity center which includes a chalkboard, paper holder and shelf, it adds even more utility–important for a piece of furniture that takes up a fair amount of real estate. Designed by a Montessori teacher and mom, the durable and sturdy tower sits flush against the counter making it easy for little ones to cook, rinse, measure and stir with ease. The roomy platform adjusts to four different heights and a 200-pound weight limit means it can easily accommodate two little ones at a time. Best of all, with a few additional accessories, the tower can easily become a puppet theater, lemonade stand or ice cream stand!

With a simple Scandinavian inspired look, this natural poplar wood frame allows the mattress to lay directly on the floor. And, it’s the same footprint as a standard crib, so no new to buy a new mattress!

The Sprout floor bed is one of the most popular options on the market, and thanks to its sleek style and conversion options it isn’t surprising that is the case. The frame is made out of baltic birch, can hold up to 250 lbs, and comes in twin, toddler, or full size. One reviewer said, “The minimalist style is crafted so beautifully, and it assembled in about 10 minutes with no screws or tools. Ben loves climbing in and out by himself and we love being able to sit close to him to play or read stories before bed.”

The price point for this table and chair set is so good, you may want to pick up two. This easy-to-clean and versatile unit is great for an independent eating space, an arts and crafts table, book nook, or puzzle building surface. The height is just right for toddlers, and the lightweight material allows children to maneuver the pieces how they see fit.

Minimalist baby gear brand Lalo offers one of the most stylish and versatile table and chairs sets on the market. Useful, fun and easy to sit on for tiny humans, the sets come in a variety of great colors and pair perfectly with their giant coloring sheets which are designed to completely cover the table surface. This will be the perfect place to read a book, create an artful masterpiece, play with some play-dough or work on a puzzle.

The OG! Made with a microsuede fabric that’s super durable and a strong, supportive foam inside that’s just the right amount of firm but comfy, the Nugget is a favorite for kids and parents. It comes in tons of colors and even some fun collabs like Sesame Street. The covers are totally machine washable and can be purchased separately if you’re ever looking for a change!

This fort has transformed playtime! The cool shapes make my toddler’s imagination run wild as she’s figured out different ways to build a house, fort, or castle, or just some random mish-mash. The magnets are the most clutch part about it, keeping her build together, but not being too strong for when she’s ready to inevitably destroy it. Each set comes with 12 waterproof and wipeable shapes that can be reconfigured endlessly!

This near spot-on Nugget Dupe is sold exclusively online at Sam’s Club and costs about $40 less. The Member’s Mark Kids’ Explorer Sofa is also comprised of four flippable cushions that can take on all different configurations and is available in eight fabulous colors with machine-washable covers.

This simple and clean design from IKEA is a perfect bookshelf to add to your toddler’s play area or bedroom. Not only is it super affordable, it’s also sized just right for regularly rotating books in and out.

Highly-rated, simple and at a price that can’t be beat, this simple fabric bookshelf keeps their current favorites on display and easy to grab.

This simple Scandinavian-inspired clothes rack has just enough space to hang a collection of essentials along with a sizable platform for shoes or accessories.

The addition of casters makes this a great option for moving from their bedroom (daytime dressing) to playroom (costume party time!). It’s made with sustainable wood and designed to last for generations.