The Best Water Table | 2023

There is nothing quite like splashing around in a water table on a hot summer day. A water table is a large sensory toy that facilitates their interaction with water in a safe and mess-free way. Usually a large round or square tub help up by three or four legs, a water table is a place to play with toys while getting their hands wet. Often, kids’ water tables come in bright colors, have unique water features like little slides and Ferris wheels, and are the perfect height for toddlers and preschoolers. Sometimes, kids’ water tables also have a compartment for sand to double the sensory experience.

One of the biggest benefits of playing with a water table is developing fine motor skills. The unique feel of the water against the toys adds a sensory element, and kids can explore using cups to pick up water and pour it out. It’s also a great way to learn about temperature, as the water often feels cool against the skin.

It’s never too early to learn about mathematical concepts like volume. Kids can have fun while figuring out how much water fits into a small cup versus a large cup. Even scientific concepts like physics are introduced to toddlers and preschoolers through water play. Children can learn about motion by looking at flowing water, and figure out which objects will sink and which will float.

By learning about these new concepts, kids can develop their language and increase their vocabulary. They also have the opportunity to pretend-play at the water table, which helps to foster creativity and collaboration with other children. A water table is a great place to develop social skills, as many children can play around it at one time. Kids can learn about cooperation, sharing, negotiation and conflict resolution.

• When you’re looking for a kids’ water table, one of the most important elements to consider is size. Some water tables are smaller and best suited to one or two children to play at a time. Others are bigger and can accommodate several children at once. Think about how many kids will want to play with the water table at one time.
• The features of the water table are what make it truly fun. While pouring and splashing are great activities, kids can up their sensory activity with the unique elements of each water table. Some come with a waterfall compartment, where kids can pour in water and watch it flow beneath. Others come with swirling slides they can push their toys down on. Some water tables have features like tunnels, valleys and peaks, which help teach kids about scientific and mathematical concepts. Consider what your kids will find the most engaging.
• If you want to double the sensory fun, look for a kids’ water table that has two separate compartments. This way, you can dedicate one section to sand and one section to water. Keep in mind that the two may end up mixing unless there is a lid that you can place on one side while playing with the other.
• Some water tables have adjustable heights, so the water table can grow with your kids. This provides them with more opportunities to comfortably play with the water table as they get taller.
• Take a look a how complex the assembly process is when buying a kids’ water table. For most of them, you will need to attach the legs of the base to the water compartment, as well as add on the play features.