Choosing a toddler table and chair set that works for your 2-year-old and preschooler is a common dilemma. Siblings that are a few years apart are drastically different in size, yet often share the same space. So, how can you find a kids' table and chair set that works for both your toddler and your kindergartener?

Here's what you need to know about choosing a table with seats for infants, toddlers, and older children.

What is the Best Size Table for Kids?

When choosing a table for kids, the goal is to match the table height and dimensions to your child's height. This means there are a few key dimensions to consider, including the height of the table top and the chair height, to ensure an ergonomic fit.

Table Top Height: The table height should sit about eight inches above your child's knees. For toddlers from about 1 - 2 years old, the ideal table top height is about 14 inches. Preschoolers ages 2 to 5 may feel more comfortable with a 16 to 18 inch table top.

Piccalio's Standard Play Table is 16 inches high, while our Large Table is 16.3 inches high.
The best size for the table top depends on what activities your child will do. For arts and crafts, you may want a larger table top to spread out with various supplies. However, to meals, reading books, or a small space, you may choose a smaller table top.

Chair Height: For chair height, your child should be able to sit with their feet flat on the floor. Ideally, their knee bends at a 90 degree angle. For toddlers, you'll need a chair that sits about 6 inches high, while for preschoolers to kindergarteners you'll want a chair that's between 7 and 8 inches high.

Our Reversible Chair offers 3 height options: 6.3 inches, 7.6 inches, and 16 inches. Just flip the chair to change the height.

This means you can use the same chair for several different heights. When your little one is just learning to walk, use the lower side. Then, flip it as they grow to adjust the size.

Considerations When Choosing a Table and Chair Set for Siblings

When choosing children's furniture for siblings, the quality of materials is essential. High-quality materials will last for generations, while cheap materials might not. Between playtime, meals, and even homework, solid natural wood is a top choice for durability.

At Piccalio, we offer a 3 year warranty so you can trust our products to stand the test of time. Plus, we use FSC® European solid beech wood for quality you can trust.

Another consideration is the safety of materials. Unfortunately, fast furniture often cuts corners and uses harmful chemicals that off-gas toxins into your home. We take a different approach and use non-toxic building materials and finishes. Plus, our wooden products are Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning they've been tested for over 10,000 chemicals.

Don't forget to consider ease of cleaning. Especially when you have a few kids, choosing items that are easy to clean will eliminate headaches. Plus, young children can help with cleaning when all you need is a damp cloth.

Finally, consider choosing a product that will grow with your child. Some play table and chair sets offer several height configurations, giving it longer usability. For example, our Reversible Chair allows both a toddler and preschooler to sit comfortably. Plus, even adults can sit on it when you flip it onto the stool side.

The Best Chairs for Two-Year-Olds

Two-year-olds need a chair that's comfortable yet sturdy. Plus, since they're in the age of "I can do it all by myself", consider choosing a chair they can move independently. The ideal height of a chair for a 2-year-old is about 6 to 7 inches high.

Try our Reversible Chair for an entryway chair your child can sit on to put on their shoes. Or, they can use the chair with our Play Table for meals, crafts, reading, and more.

Big Children's Table and Chairs

What about your big kid? For children who are preschool or kindergarten age, the considerations are similar to those for toddlers. A child-sized table and chairs are still important, as adult furniture is too big and difficult for them to move. You may consider opting for a larger table top where your big kid can spread out and even complete homework assignments. 

The Reversible Chair and Play Table Set

Our Reversible Chair and Play Table Set is designed with siblings in mind. As your child grows, you can flip the chair for a better, more ergonomic fit. Your younger child can use the lower side, and your older child can use the taller side. Yet, the set is still attractive and stylish.

When Should I Flip My Child's Chair?

You should flip the Reversible Chair when your child's knees are no longer at a 90-degree angle. If your child's upper leg tilts up, then it may be time to flip the chair for a more comfortable seating position.

Should I Choose the Large or Standard Size Table?

Choosing between our Standard and Large Play Table is a matter of personal preference, your space, and how many children you have. Our Large Play Table comfortably seats up to four little ones with the Reversible Chair.

The Bottom Line On the Best Size Table for Kids

The toddler and preschool years are when your child will most benefit from a children's table and chair set. Once they're older, they can adapt more easily to adult-sized pieces of furniture. Our Reversible Chair and Play Table Set offers a great option for little ones that grows alongside them.