Whether you need additional seating for a family meal or simply need a spot for craft projects, a child-sized table set is an effective and convenient option. These tot-sized tables give your toddler a place of her own, which might encourage her to sit still for longer than usual. With a wide variety of styles available, you can easily find an appropriate set of tables and chairs for your toddler.
Size
Before purchasing a set of tables and chairs for your toddler, have him try out the furniture to determine whether the size is appropriate. The chairs should have a wide seat and should be low enough for the toddler to enter and exit without adult assistance. When seated in the chair, your toddler should have easy access to the tabletop. A tabletop that is too high might encourage a child to stand on the chair, while a tabletop that is too low promotes a hunched posture.
Take into consideration your child's expected growth within the next several months. At this young age, many toddlers grow quickly. The Parenting Toddlers website recommends choosing a furniture set that will suit the toddler's size for at least the next several months. Some manufacturers offer height-adjustable tables and chairs.
Construction
Carefully observe the overall construction of the toddler table and chairs. To ensure the child's safety, the furniture should not feature any rough edges, sharp corners or exposed hardware. Since many toddlers enjoy climbing on furniture, assume that the table will be used for more than just drawing or eating. Before settling on a set of tables and chairs, test it for strength and stability by gently shaking the table and chair back and forth. An unstable table or chair could easily promote injuries and falls. Additionally, make sure that any paint, stain or finish used on the table is safe. Avoid any furniture sets decorated with lead paint, which poses a serious poisoning risk.
Appearance
Toddler tables and chairs are available in a wide variety of colors, styles and designs. For an informal playroom, you might choose a plastic table set with a colorful cartoon design. On the other hand, the addition of a toddler table to a formal dining room might call for a polished wood table set. Parents should choose the style and design that best match the appropriate room decor.
Accessories
Many toddler tables feature a variety of additional accessories. If your child will be doing craft projects or homework on the table, purchase a set with built-in cubbies or shelves for art supplies and pencils. If the table will be used outside, consider a table with an umbrella in the center.
Safety
Although a table with wheels may seem like an excellent option for portability, reconsider the convenience. If your toddler is leaning on the table, it could easily roll away from him, resulting in a fall. Although most wheels feature a locking mechanism, forgetting to lock the wheels just once could result in a tumble.
