How to Choose Between a Kids Table and a Desk for Your Preschooler
When your child outgrows their toddler table, should you replace it with a kids' table or a desk? For children ages 3 to 6 years old, either a desk or a table can be the right choice depending on your needs, space, and goals.
Desk vs Table for Kids: Main Considerations
When choosing between a study desk and a child's table, it's helpful to think about your goals and needs. Here are the main factors to think through before you start shopping:
Space
Will this piece of furniture be in your child's room or a common space?
Plans for use
What will your child use the work surface for? You may be looking for a study space, a kids drawing table, a homework station, or a multi-purpose space. Is it meant for just one child or do you need an option that permits collaboration and play?
Style preferences
Style is a key element when choosing between a desk vs table. Tables come in different shapes and sizes, and desks may come in different sizes with different configurations of drawers.
Materials, colors, surface area, and ergonomic designs are additional considerations related to style.
Storage space
While desks typically offer some storage space, tables don't usually include built-in storage. That said, separating storage space from the workspace can improve organization and provide a larger surface to spread out. A separate toy shelf with bins or baskets can ensure children have enough room for all their arts and craft supplies.
Why Choose Kids Tables?
A kids art table or activity table offers many benefits. Here's what you need to know if you're shopping for a kids table:
Versatile in Many Spaces
A kids table serves equally well as a quiet study table in your child's room, or as an activity table for siblings to share. You can add a kids table to any space in the home, from the living room to the dining room, the playroom, and more.
Choice of Quality Materials
Kids tables come in a variety of materials, from solid wood to manufactured wood, and even plastic. Quality wood, such as the varieties we choose at Piccalio, ensures long-lasting furniture you can enjoy for generations. Choose the best material for your style preferences and needs.
Learn about the most popular wood types used for furniture.
Multiple Uses
A table is sized nicely for any activity your child dreams up. From playing board games to coloring posters, hosting tea-time, or doing homework, a kids' table adapts perfectly. While the typical kids' writing desk is long, narrow, and intended for one child, a table accommodates several children.
A Mom's Perspective:
In my experience as a mom of three, a table is a better choice for children aged 3 to 6. At that age, my children wanted to play and work on their projects in a communal space, such as the kitchen or living room. This way, they could ask questions, show off their work, and be close by as I cooked, cleaned, or worked. Plus, it was easier for the children to play together or for me to join them at a table.
Although my youngest is now 7 years old, our kids' table continues to serve as a workspace for messy art projects, snacks, and play.
Learn how to pick the right size children's table and chair set here.
Why Choose Desks for Kids?
In some cases, a desk may be the best choice. What benefits does a desk offer for children?
Promotes Concentration
Desks are designed for one person, which can help foster your child's concentration as they play or work.
Storage Included
Most desks feature drawers and other built-in storage solutions, which keep essentials within easy reach. Your child can easily store supplies like crayons, pencils, erasers, stickers, and coloring books in the drawers for a neat, yet functional set-up.
Ideal for a Child's Room
If your child's room is smaller, a desk often fits more easily than a kids' table. Desk designs tend to be narrower and can be pushed up against a wall.
A Mom's Perspective:
My children started using desks in their rooms once they were a few years into elementary school, around age 9 or 10. Before then, they preferred to do homework in a common space where my husband and I are more available to answer questions or check their work.
Before they were in school, they also played at a kids' table, enjoying activities like arts and crafts, board games, and shared snacks.
Now that they're older, my kids value their independence and daily alone time, which they often spend at their desks. My daughter especially loves having the drawer space for supplies for her special projects like beading, clay, and sticker making.
Desk Vs. Table: The Best Choice for Your Family
For children ages 3 to 6, an appropriately sized kids table is often the best choice. A child's table is versatile, comes in a variety of styles, and provides long-term use. Plus, you can use a table for group play and projects, or as an individual workspace. However, if you need a workstation with storage for your child to enjoy in their room, a desk may be a better choice.
Ultimately, both kids' tables and desks can provide a wonderful and thoughtful addition to your home, providing space for hours of play, learning, and fun. The right choice for your family depends on your child's age, their needs, and where you'll use the furniture.
Discover a list of 100+ screen-free activities for your child to try, many of which are perfect for enjoying at a table or a desk.
Leave a comment