How to Make a DIY Toddler Helping Stand

Our little one loves helping in the kitchen, but standing on a stool or chair can be dangerous. A toddler helping stand is a great alternative to raise a child up to counter height on a wide and sturdy platform with a guard around all sides to help prevent falls. This type of helping stand is best for children up to 3 years of age and should always be used under adult supervision. 

Steps for Building a Toddler Helping Stand

Cut list

• Side Frame (vertical) – 2 @ 35 inches
• Side Frame (vertical) – 2 @ 25 inches
• Side Frame (vertical) – 2 @ 10 inches
• Side Frame (horizontal) – 4 @ 7 ½ inches
• Side Frame (horizontal) – 4 @ 12 ½ inches
• Crosspiece – 7 @ 16 ½ inches
• Step Slats – 2 @ 18 inches
• Platform Slats – 3 @ 18 inches
• Platform – 2 @ 16 ½ inches

Sept 1: Cut the boards to length

Using the cut list above, cut the 1×3 boards to length. 

Step 2: Prep the boards for assembly

To prep the boards for assembly, drill two pocket holes in the ends of each frame piece as noted on the drawing. For the step and platform pieces, drill the pocket holes along the edges of the boards. 

Step 3: Mark the vertical boards

Now lay the vertical piece together with the 10-inch and 25-inch pieces running alongside the 35-inch back board. Using a speed square, mark the height of the supports across both boards. 

Step 4: Assemble the frame sides

Lay out the parts of the first side of the frame including the three vertical pieces and the four supports that run between them. Shift the assembly to the edge of the table as needed. Assemble with wood glue and 1 ¼-inch pocket hole screws.

To lay out the pieces for the second side, ensure the frame is the mirror of the first so that the pocket hole will all face inward. Again, use glue and pocket hole screws to assemble the frame. Once complete double check that you’ve created two identical sides with the pocket holes facing inward. 

Step 5: Attach the crosspieces

To join the two assembled sides, apply glue to the ends of the crosspieces, and then attach them to the back board. I’m using a right-angle clamp to help hold these boards in place. Once complete the crosspieces should set flush with the top edge, height of the platform, and equal to the height of the bottom support. Continue attaching four more crosspieces that will connect the front of the sides. 

Step 6: Join the frame sides

Now apply glue and position the assembly with the crosspieces onto the remaining frame side. Secure with pocket hole screws, rotating the assembly as needed to bring it toward the edge of the table to use the clamp. 

Step 7: Assemble the step and platform

To assemble the step, set the two boards side-by-side with their ends flush. Apply glue along joint and secure the boards with pocket hole screws. Now layout the pieces that make up the platform with the shorter pieces at the end, using a scrap block to make sure they’re centered. Apply glue along the edges of boards and install the pocket holes in alternating directions to secure the pieces. 

Step 8: Attach the step and platform to the frame

With the frame upright, set the step and platform into place and then secure with countersunk 1 ¼-inch screws.

Materials

• (3) 1x3x8’ Boards
• 1 ¼-inch pocket hole screws
• Wood glue
• Wood filler
• Primer and paint

Tools