By providing furniture that supports a child's ergonomics at home, you can nurture good habits that will last little ones well into adulthood. But what if you have two kids of different ages and sizes? There are a few different things to consider when making this decision. First, take a look at our Height Recommendations for Tables and Chairs to see what size leg length and chair height might be ideal for each child. Keep in mind that the recommendations below are made based on the average size of a child in that particular age range.

Proper leg and chair heights support healthy posture by allowing a child’s feet to rest flat on the floor. This can support healthy skeletal development for little ones as they grow. If your children fall into different chair and table height categories, you might be wondering how to help them sit comfortably at the same table. Below are a couple of ways to approach this:

One common approach is to choose a table that suits the older child. Then, provide a taller chair for the younger child so they can reach the tabletop. In this setup, their feet may dangle, so placing a sturdy support, like a small stool or thick book, under their feet can help maintain proper posture. Alternatively, the younger child can use the table as a standing desk for certain activities.

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Another option to consider is purchasing a table that better aligns with the size of the younger child. While this option is considered less often, it can be helpful for the developmental growth of the younger child. The older child can kneel or sit on a floor cushion to use the table comfortably. Unfortunately, this option can cause a shorter lifespan for the product, as your children may grow out of it faster.

At Sprout, we recognize that ergonomics for children comes with the added challenge of accommodating them while they are constantly growing and changing. That is why Sprout Tables were designed to use the same tabletop and brackets but are compatible with different sizes of legs, which ultimately enables them to grow with your child. The Adjustable Montessori Weaning Set is a great option to consider as it includes three different sizes of legs. 

Another valuable resource to consider is a Chowki Floor Table. A Chowki is a stackable, child-sized floor desk originally designed by Maria Montessori that can help children comfortably write, draw, or work while sitting on the floor. This product can be helpful with children who have a larger age gap or for smaller spaces. 

Depending on your space and what the work surface will be used for, some caregivers opt to purchase two different-sized tables that align with the size of each individual child. This will allow your children to have their own work surface sized for their needs, but can be pushed together for any collaborative activities. 

Check out the Tables and Chairs in our School Collection to see the full list of available options. Ultimately, you know your children and what will work best in your own space!