One way to create the perfect space to inspire concentrated play for your child is to have the right table and chairs. This is an important feature that can not be overlooked. It is difficult to purchase and item knowing that your child is just going to outgrow it. However, it is important to keep in mind that the correct size table and chair will support your child’s natural intellectual and movement development, just like the correct size of shoes will support his development of equilibrium.
What are you looking for in a table and chair?
- When seated in the chair, your child’s feet should be flat on the floor.
- When seated at the table, the table height should be between his chest and his belly button.
- The table surface should be easily cleaned; formica top or finished wood surface
- The chair should be sturdy enough that is doesn’t wobble, but lightweight enough so your child can move it in and out from under the table and pick it up and carry it.
- The first weaning table should be heavy so that it does not move easily, but tables for 1 years and up should be able to be carried by one or two children.
- Choose a work surface large enough for your needs: 18” square is good for one child, but for two or more children consider 24” square or 20”w x 30”d or even larger.
| Child age | General Use | Table Height | Chair Seat Height |
| 6 months to 1 year | The introduction of solid foods | 12” | 5” |
| 1 years – 2.5 years | Eating, arts and crafts, eye-hand coordination activities, practical life activities | 14”-16” | 7”-9” |
| 3 – 5.5 years | Arts and crafts, puzzles, practical life activities, counting, writing work, board games | 20”-24” | 12”-15” |
| 6 – 9 years | Arts and crafts, science experiments, math, writing, board and card games | 27”-30” | 14”-18” |
For more on the weaning:
http://www.feedingthesoil.com/2011/06/montessori-weaning-months-two-to-four.html