Creating Play Space with Children's Table and Chairs
Children create play spaces out of just about anything, but a table and chairs set can become the perfect play area. While cardboard boxes, trees, furniture and closets have all been transformed by the imaginations of children, you can create a permanent play area for your child using tables and chairs. The way you arrange the tables and chairs to create a play space depends on the amount of space available in your home and the function of the space. No matter the arrangement, your decorative accents should match the interests of your child.
Large Spaces
Use your tables and chairs as a focal point in large play areas. Place the table in the center of the room and surround it with matching chairs. Adding an oversized carpet or mat beneath the table highlights the space and provides additional space for the children to play. Arrange bookshelves and toys around the perimeter of the room so that during and after play the items can be placed neatly back into their places.
When your child celebrates a birthday or special occasion, you can add additional tables and chairs to the center of the room in a large “U” shape to accommodate each child. The space in the center of the “U” can be used for games and free play.
Small Spaces
Creating a play area in a small space with tables and chairs can be a challenge. Avoid clutter by placing a table in the corner of the playroom. Choose a small table that accounts for no more than half the space on the wall. If you have a set of four chairs, use two for the table and place two on the opposite end of the room. These chairs can be used for story time with your children or as a lounge area when they want to read on their own. Maximize the space in the playroom by using the half of the tabletop to display surplus games, puzzles and small toys.
Shared Rooms
Create a play area from a shared room. Use a group of tables to divide one section of the room into a play space. Arrange tables in an “L” shape or in a long straight line. Place chairs at each table on the inside of the play space. Your children can use the long table space for arts and crafts, to complete homework assignments and special projects.
Convertible Tables & Chairs
Modular children’s furniture is also a great option for shared spaces. In rooms used for entertaining house guests, you can store tables and chairs out of sight so that your guests can roam freely. Modular furniture allows you to maximize the space in your room since it can be repurposed. For example, a modular children’s table can convert into a coffee or end table. You can find modular furniture pieces in contemporary furniture stores.
Decorative Accents
Add decorative accents to the tables in your play space. Place mats that double as games, tabletop games and easels are all viable options for the playroom. Be imaginative in your search for items to adorn the table. If the table is longer than 4ft, consider turning it into a workspace for a specific activity. For example, if your child loves science, add an area on the table for the child to conduct mock experiments. There are no limits to enhancing your tables in your playroom.
