Guest Blog: Kate Shares How the Play System's Kitchen Helper Brings Family Connection to Life

Hi, I’m Kate, mum of two boys (aged 2 and 4) and we live in sunny Queensland, Australia. 

Before becoming a mum, I spent 12 years working as a preschool teacher and as a child and youth care practitioner in residential centres. Those experiences deeply shaped my values and my approach to parenting. These days, I feel incredibly lucky to be a stay-at-home mum, spending 99% of my time with my boys by my side.

In our home, connection is everything. We prioritise it above all else;  whether it’s through play, cuddles, conversation, or including the kids in our daily routines and rituals. Of course, I’d love to spend all day in the playroom, but (unfortunately!) the cooking and cleaning fairy hasn’t moved into our house yet!

One place we always end up connecting is the kitchen. I love cooking, and thankfully, so do my boys. Whether I’m hurriedly throwing together a lunchbox on our way to playgroup or peacefully following a recipe before dinner (because for once, we started before 6pm!), our Playsystems Kitchen Helper is the MVP of our home.

Both boys can climb in and out of it easily, and they love pulling it up to the kitchen island to see what’s going on. Sometimes they help with simple tasks - stirring, measuring, or washing veggies - but when my youngest was too little, I’d just hand him a bowl, a whisk, and some water or flour so he could still feel involved.

Yes, the kitchen helper is sturdy (and on the heavier side), but even so, my boys can still push it to wherever they need it, usually to the sink to wash their grubby little hands! Having this practical, beautiful tool in our kitchen helps us make memories together and fosters a sense of independence, confidence, and belonging.

To me, having a kitchen helper in the home sends a simple but powerful message to our little ones: “You’re welcome here.”

Our home might be overflowing with blocks, socks, and small furniture, but I know this is a fleeting season. One day, I’ll miss the noise, the chaos, and the joy of raising small kids. For now, I’m just soaking it all in and embracing the season we’re in.