Entertaining the little ones during the summer can sometimes seem like an impossible task. However, pull out an interactive water table and you’ve just provided a great sensory experience for the kids. Therefore, keep reading to find the best water tables perfect for some summer water fun!
Or, read about the Best Humidifiers for Babies here.
Best Overall: Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table
Most Extravagant: Plum Discovery Water Run
Best for Add-Ons: Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Table
For Babies: Little Tikes Spiralin’ Seas Waterpark Play Table
Best for Playdates: Step2 Waterfall Discovery Wall
For Imagination: Little Tikes Anchors Away Pirate Ship
Best for Toddlers: Little Tikes Fish ‘N Splash Water Table
Best for Metal Construction: Kids’ Outdoor Sand and Water Table
Table of Contents
What age is best for a water table?
One of the great things about a water play table is that they can entertain a variety of different ages. However, some products are suitable for certain ages while others are not – so make sure you check the age limit on yours.
If you have a 1-year old, I’d recommend finding a specific water table for that age range. These are great because they still have interactive play sets, but don’t pose as much of a choking hazard.
Otherwise, these products are great for 2-year olds to preschoolers alike! Therefore, if you have multiple kids of different ages (or kids on a playdate), water tables are a great source of family fun!
What should I look for in a water table?
There are a few different factors you should consider when purchasing a kids’ water table.
Firstly, think about size. Do you have a big enough backyard that it doesn’t matter? Or, do you already have too many outdoor toys and are trying to tone it down? You also need to think about the gallons of water each table will take (which is dependent on size as well).
Secondly, think about the age range that will be using the activity table. Are you trying to find one specific to a certain age or will it be used at playtime by all the kids?
Thirdly, take a look at the materials and add-ons that each table offers. Are you going to be ok with plastic toys? Do you want a table with a drain-plug to wash away the water once the kiddos are finished? Or, maybe you want a water tower or other toys that come with, so your kids can be more entertained.
Lastly, think about cleaning! Plastic is obviously easier to clean (and often cheaper), but you know the quality can be iffy. Moreover, some people like to get the option with a sandbox add-on which can be really messy. Make sure you’re prepared for some cleaning before you purchase one of these products!
Are water tables good for toddlers?
Yes! Not only will they keep your toddler entertained, they’re also great for sensory play that will help with fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Moreover, they’re awesome to use when your kiddo is having a playdate because they can work on their social skills. With a water table, you can teach your little one all about sharing and taking turns!
What are the benefits of water tables?
We discussed some benefits above, but we’ll go over them again!
- Sensory experience
- Develop problem solving skills
- Creativity
- Language development
- Social skills
- Tons of summer fun!!
Which is the best water table?
Let’s take a look at our top picks for a water table on a warm summer day!
Best Overall: Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table
Suitable for ages 1.5 and up, this water table is perfect for backyard play time. It features water maze-like spinners, ramps, and buckets that are all activated by the water. So, your kid can scoop up water from the pond and pour it in the top tier to make a large shower water wheel below!
Most Extravagant: Plum Discovery Water Run
Check out this table of three levels with five individual wooden reservoir! Children can start filling the top reservoir to ensure constant water flow and from there, can open the racing gates. Then, let the fun begin! This option is so intricate and awesome!
Best for Add-Ons: Step2 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Table
This two-sided elevated play table comes with a 60″ umbrella, 2 bridges, 2 boats, 2 pots, and a shovel! I mean, does it get better than that?! It’s great if you have more than one kiddo playing or want that sandbox experience.
For Babies: Little Tikes Spiralin’ Seas Waterpark Play Table
This table helps develop “put and take” skills along with early motor skills. Your little one can drop balls down the spiral and watch them go round and round, into the water. Or, turn the ferris wheel to scoop up and drop off balls. There are so many endless possibilities with this little plastic table!
Best for Playdates: Step2 Waterfall Discovery Wall
This product is perfect for playdates because multiple children can play together with the two-sided water wall design. Your little ones will have so much fun as they scoop water up from the bottom basin and pour water into the top to activate the maze! Additionally, it comes with 13 pieces.
For Imagination: Little Tikes Anchors Away Pirate Ship
Check out this fun, pirate ship themed outdoor water table! You can even aim and squirt water from the water cannon. Additionally, the anchor raises and lowers by cranking the handle. Your kiddos will love this set!
Best for Toddlers: Little Tikes Fish ‘N Splash Water Table
This product features a fishing game AND counting play so your child can be stimulated for hours on end! They can catch, collect, and count their fish before releasing them back in with a splash. Or, fill the fishbowl until it tips over and splashes, creating a huge wave!
Best for Metal Construction: Kids’ Outdoor Sand and Water Table
If you’re looking for a non-plastic water table option, check this out! It’s a sandbox and water table in one. Because it’s metal, it can hold up to 50 pounds of play sand, so your kids are sure to have a blast! Moreover, the lid can double as a play surface and cover when you’re not using the table!
In conclusion…
So, did you find a table perfect for your little ones on a warm summer day?!
