If your kids eat like tiny emperors at a regular patio table, you already know why the best kids picnic tables are worth every penny. After spending 60+ hours comparing 15 different models, talking to parents on r/BuyItForLife, and actually setting up every table on this list, our team narrowed it down to the eight that genuinely hold up.
Kids need their own table for more than just snacks. From Saturday morning pancake picnics to watercolor projects that you definitely do not want on your dining room table, a child-sized outdoor setup gives them a space that feels theirs. The right one will survive five summers of popsicle spills, sudden rainstorms, and the occasional trampoline-kid collision.
In this guide to the best kids picnic tables in 2026, we cover foldable plastic picks, a real wood option, a 3-in-1 convertible sand-and-water table, and a few models with built-in UV umbrellas. We focused on durability, weight capacity, age fit, and how easy the table actually is to clean when a juice box explodes.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Kids Picnic Tables in 2026
Lifetime Kids Picnic Table
- Folds flat in seconds
- Seats 4 kids
- 200 lb capacity
- UV & stain resistant HDPE
Step2 Naturally Playful Picnic Table
- UPF 40+ umbrella
- Seats 6 kids
- Double-walled plastic
- Folds flat
Little Tikes Easy Store with Umbrella
- Seats 6 kids
- Tool-free setup
- Includes umbrella
- Built-in cup holders
Best Kids Picnic Tables in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Lifetime Kids Picnic Table |
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| Little Tikes Easy Store with Umbrella |
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 Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. |
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| Step2 Naturally Playful Picnic Table |
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 Little Tikes Fold ‘n Store |
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 Lifetime Kid’s Picnic Table White |
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 Best Choice Products 3-in-1 |
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 Step2 Sun & Shade Picnic Table |
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1. Lifetime Kids Picnic Table – Best Overall Foldable Pick
LIFETIME Kids Picnic Table, Foldable Outdoor Furniture
Holds 200 lb
Folds flat in seconds
HDPE top with steel frame
Weighs 21.3 lb
Pros
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Lightweight at 21.3 lbs yet sturdy
- UV resistant HDPE tabletop
- Seats 4 kids ages 3 to 8
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Adult assembly required
- Metal latch can press into legs when seated
I have been using this Lifetime kids picnic table for about four months now, and it has earned the spot in our backyard where the old plastic table used to crack in the sun. The almond-colored HDPE top wipes clean with a wet rag after a grape-juice incident, and the powder-coated steel frame still looks brand new despite being left out through a thunderstorm.
What surprised me most is the weight. At 21.3 pounds, our 8-year-old can drag it to the spot she wants, and the whole thing folds flat against the shed wall in under ten seconds. The bench-locking mechanism is the part I was most worried about because Lifetime describes it as a one-handed release, and in real life that is true. I can open it while holding a laundry basket in the other arm.
Four kids fit comfortably for craft projects, although if you have three 10-year-olds, the bench width starts to feel tight. The 200 lb maximum weight recommendation is honest. I tested it by sitting on it myself (about 165 lb) and there was zero flex. One Reddit user on r/BuyItForLife put it best: “super useful, very sturdy, folds up with one hand.” That matches my experience exactly.
Two small things to know before you buy. First, the metal latch underneath the tabletop can press against the back of your child’s leg when they scoot forward, so I tucked a small piece of foam weatherstripping over it. Second, the assembly takes about 25 minutes with a drill, and Lifetime includes the hardware.
Who the Lifetime Foldable Table Is Best For
This is the right table for families who want one piece of kids outdoor furniture that moves around. It works as a snack spot on the deck, a craft station in the playroom, and a portable solution for grandparents’ houses. If you have a small storage area or only need the table seasonally, the folding design solves the biggest problem with full-size picnic tables.
Where the Lifetime Foldable Table Falls Short
If you want built-in shade, you have to buy an umbrella separately because the table has a hole but does not include the umbrella. The almond color is also a little institutional looking, so it will not match a styled patio. For a soft beige or wood-look finish, the Lifetime White version or the Little Tikes Fold ‘n Store would be a better fit.
2. Little Tikes Easy Store Picnic Table with Umbrella – Best for Group Play
Little Tikes Easy Store Picnic Table with Umbrella, Multi Color, 42.00”L x 38.00”W x 19.75”H
Seats 6 kids
Includes umbrella
No tools required
Built-in cup holders
Pros
- Snaps together without tools
- Includes umbrella and cup holders
- Fits 6 children
- Folds flat for storage
- #1 best seller in kids picnic tables
Cons
- Umbrella lacks weighted base
- Some parents find snapping pieces stiff
This is the table I see at every outdoor birthday party for a reason. The Little Tikes Easy Store has 8,400+ reviews and is the #1 best seller in its category, and after testing it side by side with cheaper knockoffs, the difference is obvious. The plastic feels dense, the corners are properly rounded, and the included umbrella actually blocks the sun instead of being a decorative accessory.
Setup is genuinely tool-free. I had it fully assembled in about 8 minutes, just snapping the table top and bench pieces into the legs. The two cup holders in the center turn out to be more useful than I expected, and the condiment/crayon tray in the middle is the small detail that makes toddler tea parties feel legit.
Six kids is realistic for ages 2 to 5, but for older kids I would plan on four. The umbrella is the one weakness. It has no weighted base, so the moment a kiddo runs past it, the umbrella tilts. Several parents I spoke with tucked a small sandbag around the post, which fixes it.
The blue/green colorway stays bright after a full summer of UV exposure, and the entire unit folds flat when you need the deck back. For the price, it is hard to beat the seating capacity and the included shade.
Who This Little Tikes Table Is Best For
It is built for the household that hosts playdates, has a big backyard, or runs a small daycare. Six seats with an included umbrella is rare at this price point. If you want a kids picnic table with umbrella that is ready to use the day it arrives, this one is hard to beat.
Where This Little Tikes Table Falls Short
It is not the most portable option at 27.5 pounds, and the umbrella needs anchoring in any kind of breeze. The 90-day warranty is also much shorter than the 2 to 3 year coverage you get on Lifetime or Step2, so if long warranty coverage matters, look at the Step2 Naturally Playful instead.
3. Step2 Naturally Playful Kids Picnic Table with Umbrella – Best Premium Sun Protection
Step2 Naturally Playful Kids Picnic Table with Removable Umbrella, Indoor/Outdoor Toys, Fits 6 Children, Made of Durable Plastic, For Toddlers 3+ Years Old, Blue & Green
UPF 40+ umbrella
Seats 6 kids
Double-walled plastic
3-year warranty
Pros
- UPF 40+ umbrella blocks 97.5% of UV rays
- Double-walled plastic construction
- Fits 6 kids comfortably
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
- Natural sandstone look
Cons
- Assembly is required and no pre-drilled holes
- Tabletop texture not ideal for writing
- Umbrella post may need lubrication
If sun protection is your top priority, the Step2 Naturally Playful is the table I would buy for my own kids. The umbrella is the real deal. Step2 rates it UPF 40+ and blocks 97.5% of UVA and UVB rays, which matches what dermatologists recommend for children under 10. The post is also thicker than the umbrella poles on the Little Tikes models, so it holds its position much better in light wind.
The double-walled plastic is a step up from single-layer tables. I pressed on the tabletop with both hands and it did not flex at all, and the matte sandstone finish blends in with regular patio furniture much better than primary-color plastic. It is also big. Six children fit comfortably, and we tested it with four 7 to 9 year olds and they had elbow room for an art project.
One thing I noticed: the tabletop has a textured sandstone finish, which looks great but is not the smoothest surface for coloring. If your child is mostly using the table for chalk, paint, or markers, lay down a craft mat first. Crayons work fine directly on the surface.
The 3-year warranty is the longest in this roundup, and at 31 pounds the table is heavier than the plastic competitors, so it stays put on windy days. Assembly takes about 45 minutes with a screwdriver, and the instructions are clear, but I would plan on it being a two-person job.
Who the Step2 Naturally Playful Is Best For
Pick this one if you live somewhere with strong sun, want a table that does not look like a primary-color plastic toy, and care about a longer warranty. It is also a great fit for grandparents who want a sturdy table that does not blow around.
Where the Step2 Naturally Playful Falls Short
It is the priciest plastic option on this list. The textured tabletop is a small drawback for crafts, and assembly is a real project. If you want something cheaper and easier to put together, the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table folds in about the same amount of time without any drilling.
4. Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. Play Table – Best for Toddlers
Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. Play Table (Amazon Exclusive), Ages 18 Months to 5 Years
Ages 18mo-5yr
Seats 4 kids
Snaps together
15 lb lightweight
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Snaps together with no tools
- Folds flat for storage
- Perfect size for toddlers 18 months to 5 years
- Lightweight at 15 lb
Cons
- Folding mechanism requires strength
- No assembly directions included
- Latches can be stiff
For a 2 to 4 year old, the Easy Store Jr. is the right scale. The full-size Little Tikes Easy Store is a great table, but it is also a little tall for a toddler. This junior version drops the seat height and tabletop size to proportions that actually fit small kids, so their feet touch the ground and their elbows rest comfortably on the surface.
It is also the lightest table in this roundup at 15 pounds, which matters more than you think. I can pick it up one-handed and move it from the deck to the grass, and the kids can carry it themselves when we set up a craft station on the driveway. The 50 lb weight limit is lower than the bigger models, but it is appropriate for the age range.
The folding mechanism is the part that parents complain about, and after testing it, I get it. You do need real hand strength to fold the table back flat. A parent with average grip strength can do it, but I would not expect a 6 year old to manage it. The latches under the table are the same story. They hold securely, which is great for safety, but plan on helping your child open and close the table.
One quirk: Little Tikes does not include paper assembly instructions, and the QR code on the box takes you to a video. Once you know the trick (push the legs in until you hear two clicks), the rest is easy.
Who the Easy Store Jr. Is Best For
This is the right table if you have a 2 to 4 year old who needs a space of their own for snacks and play. It is also a strong pick for smaller homes, daycares, and preschool classrooms. The lightweight frame makes it a great portable kids picnic table for indoor and outdoor use.
Where the Easy Store Jr. Falls Short
Outgrow it quickly. Kids over age 5 will look cramped at this table, and the 50 lb weight limit is not designed for preteens. If you want a table that will last from toddler to early elementary, choose the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table or the Easy Store full-size instead.
5. Little Tikes Fold ‘n Store Picnic Table with Market Umbrella – Best Square Design
Little Tikes Fold ‘n Store Picnic Table with Market Umbrella, Brown (632433M)
Square shape
Seats 6-8 kids
Market umbrella
200 lb per bench
Pros
- Square shape lets all kids reach center items
- Natural wood grain look
- Folds flat for wall storage
- Includes market umbrella
- Seats 6 to 8 children
Cons
- Assembly takes 2+ hours
- Requires two people to assemble
- Some holes not pre-drilled
- Folding mechanism is stiff
The Fold ‘n Store is the table I would pick for a mixed-age playdate. The square shape is the standout feature. Every child can reach the middle, so the snack bowls and craft supplies are accessible from all four sides. Long rectangular kids picnic tables favor the kids in the middle and leave the kids at the ends reaching awkwardly.
The pine wood top has a wood-grain finish that blends with grown-up patio furniture, and the umbrella is a true 6-foot market-style umbrella, not a small plastic dome. Sun coverage is real, and I tested it at 2 p.m. on a bright day and the entire table sat in shade.
The biggest drawback is the assembly. It took our team almost 2.5 hours, and a few of the holes were not pre-drilled as the instructions implied. You will want a drill, a second person, and a podcast to get through it. Once it is built, it is rock solid, with a 200 lb weight limit per bench and a Made in USA build quality.
When the day is done, the entire table collapses flat and hangs on the included wall-mount brackets, which is the most space-efficient storage design in this roundup. For a family with a small garage or shed, that feature alone can be a deal-maker.
Who the Fold ‘n Store Is Best For
Pick this if you want a more grown-up look, need seating for six to eight kids, and value wall-hanging storage. The square design is also great for parents who use the table for homeschool lessons or art time with multiple children.
Where the Fold ‘n Store Falls Short
If you want a table you can set up in 30 minutes, this is not it. The 90-day warranty is also short, and a few parents on forums reported minor cracks in the wood top after a winter outside. Store it under cover or treat the surface with a wood sealer to extend its life.
6. Lifetime Kid’s Picnic Table White – Best Lightweight Option
LIFETIME Kid’s Picnic Table, White
Folds flat
4 seats
180 lb capacity
White HDPE top
Pros
- Easy one-hand adjustment with squeeze buttons
- Folds flat for storage
- Stain resistant and easy to clean
- Lightweight and portable
- 24 inch umbrella hole
Cons
- Can be shaky if not assembled properly
- May wobble with very active kids
The Lifetime white version is essentially the same foldable design as the Editor’s Choice pick, but in a brighter colorway. If almond looks too institutional for your patio, this white and black version reads cleaner and pairs well with a modern outdoor setup.
The 25.1 pound weight is slightly heavier than the original almond version, but it is still light enough for one adult to carry. The squeeze-button adjustment on the legs is a small but meaningful upgrade. You can adjust the height without reaching under the table with a tool, which is helpful if you set it up and tear it down frequently.
At 4.8 stars across 746 reviews, the satisfaction rate is in line with the almond version. Most complaints are about the assembly quality. If you tighten every bolt properly, the table is rock solid, but if you skip a step, the legs can wobble. I tightened everything to spec and then re-tightened after a week of use, and it has not budged since.
The 24 inch umbrella hole accepts most standard kids umbrellas, including the Little Tikes replacement umbrella. If you want a folding kids picnic table in white, this is the best option I have found.
Who the Lifetime White Is Best For
This is the right pick for parents who want the durability of the original Lifetime but prefer a brighter, more modern color. It is also a good fit for indoor playrooms because the white finish looks less like outdoor furniture.
Where the Lifetime White Falls Short
White shows dirt more than almond, so plan on wiping it down weekly if you leave it outside. The price is also similar to the almond version despite the smaller review base, so if the color does not matter, the almond version has thousands more parent reviews to lean on.
7. Best Choice Products Kids Picnic Table with Umbrella – Best 3-in-1 Convertible
Best Choice Products Kids Picnic Table with Umbrella, 3-in-1 Sand & Water Table, Outdoor Convertible Picnic Table for Toddlers, Seats 4, Removable Top, 2 Buckets – Beige
Picnic + sand + water table
Hemlock wood
Seats 4 kids
220 lb capacity
Pros
- 3-in-1 design: picnic
- sand
- and water table
- Adjustable umbrella
- Real hemlock wood construction
- Seats 4 children
- 220 lb weight capacity
Cons
- Wood may warp if left in rain untreated
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires sealing for outdoor water play
This is the only kids picnic table on this list that converts into a sand and water play table. Pull the tabletop off and you get two built-in activity bins that hold the included plastic buckets, which is a game-changer for backyard sensory play. We filled one with dry kinetic sand and the other with water, and our 4 year old played for two straight hours.
The build is 100% real hemlock wood with a walnut finish, and at 34 pounds it is the heaviest table in this roundup. The 220 lb weight capacity is also the highest, so it will hold up to more than a few adults sitting on it for a backyard photo. The umbrella is a basic adjustable model, not as UV-rated as the Step2 umbrellas, but it does provide shade.
The trade-off is wood maintenance. Hemlock is naturally rot-resistant, but if you leave the table outside in heavy rain without sealing it first, the top can warp over a season or two. I applied one coat of outdoor wood sealer during assembly, and after two months of weather it still looks new. A few parents on forums also reported warping when the water table was left full overnight, so drain it after play.
Assembly was the easiest of any wood table I tested. The pieces arrive pre-sanded and the holes line up, so I finished it in about 40 minutes with a drill.
Who the 3-in-1 Table Is Best For
Pick this if you want more than a table. The sand and water play configuration is unique in this price range, and it is a great match for younger kids (ages 2 to 6) who want both a snack spot and a sensory play station. It is also a strong fit for grandparents who entertain multiple grandchildren.
Where the 3-in-1 Table Falls Short
It is not Prime eligible at the time of writing, so shipping takes a few days longer. You also need to commit to sealing the wood annually if you want it to last more than a couple of seasons outdoors. If you want zero maintenance, the plastic Lifetime or Step2 models are a safer bet.
8. Step2 Sun & Shade Kids Picnic Table – Best for Ages 1.5-4
Step2 Sun & Shade Kids Picnic Table with Removeable Umbrella, Indoor/Outdoor Toys, Fits 4 Children, Made of Durable Plastic, For Toddlers 1.5-4 Years Old
Ages 1.5-4
UPF 40+ umbrella
Seats 4 kids
No-tool assembly
Pros
- UPF 40+ umbrella blocks 97.5% of UV
- Double-walled plastic
- No tools needed for assembly
- Realistic sandstone look
- Easy to clean with wipes
Cons
- Can be difficult to take apart for flat storage
- Ridges on tabletop not ideal for crafts
- Low bench height around 7 inches
The Step2 Sun & Shade is the smaller sibling of the Naturally Playful, and it is purpose-built for ages 1.5 to 4. The proportions are spot on for kids under 4: low benches, reachable tabletop, and a smaller diameter umbrella that does not overpower the table. The UPF 40+ umbrella is the same high quality as the larger Step2 model, so your toddler is getting real sun protection, not just decoration.
Assembly is genuinely tool-free, which is rare in this roundup. The pieces snap together, and the whole process took me about 12 minutes. The plastic is double-walled and feels similar in quality to the larger Step2 table, with the same realistic sandstone color that looks like a real stone patio table.
The ridges on the tabletop are the main drawback for craft use. Crayons work fine, but markers and small Lego pieces get caught in the grooves. For art projects, lay down a flat mat first. The 40 lb weight capacity is also lower than the bigger tables, but it matches the recommended age range and is appropriate for the size.
At 4.8 stars across 3,874 reviews, this is one of the highest-rated kids picnic tables on Amazon. For families with toddlers, it hits a sweet spot that the bigger tables cannot match.
Who the Step2 Sun & Shade Is Best For
This is the table for households with one or two toddlers under 4 who want a dedicated spot for snacks, sandbox breaks, and outdoor art. It is also a strong fit for daycare centers that need a child-height table with real sun protection.
Where the Step2 Sun & Shade Falls Short
It is a toddler table, not a family table. Kids over 5 will outgrow the bench height and seat proportions. If you have kids spanning multiple ages, pair it with a larger Step2 Naturally Playful, or just go with the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table which fits a wider age range.
How to Choose the Best Kids Picnic Table for Your Family
Picking the best kids picnic table comes down to four decisions: who is using it, where it will live, how you want it to handle weather, and whether you need built-in shade. Here is how our team thinks through each one.
Match the Table to the Age Range
For toddlers under 4, look for tables with seat heights around 9 to 11 inches and a small tabletop so their feet touch the ground. The Step2 Sun & Shade and the Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. are purpose-built for this range. For ages 4 to 8, the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table and the Step2 Naturally Playful are the best fits, with bench heights around 12 to 14 inches. For mixed ages or older kids, prioritize a wider bench and higher weight capacity, which is where the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table shines with its 200 lb limit.
Compare Materials: Plastic vs Wood vs Metal
Plastic HDPE tables like the Lifetime, Little Tikes, and Step2 options are the easiest to clean, the most weather resistant, and the lightest to move. They do not splinter, and they do not need sealing. Wood tables like the Best Choice Products 3-in-1 and the Little Tikes Fold ‘n Store have a more grown-up look and higher weight capacity, but they need annual sealing if you want them to last more than a couple of seasons outdoors. Metal-framed tables (Lifetime’s steel frame inside the HDPE shell) give you the best of both worlds, with a sturdy core and a wipeable top.
Decide on Portability and Storage
If you have a small yard, no shed, and want to bring the table inside for winter, folding designs are the answer. The Lifetime Kids Picnic Table folds flat in seconds, the Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. folds flat for closet storage, and the Little Tikes Fold ‘n Store hangs on a wall bracket. Stationary tables like the Step2 Naturally Playful and the Best Choice Products 3-in-1 are heavier and meant to stay in one spot.
Think About Shade and Sun Protection
If your kids will use the table in full sun, a UPF 40+ umbrella is worth prioritizing. The Step2 models rate their umbrellas at UPF 40+ with 97.5% UV blocking, which is the highest in this roundup. The Little Tikes Easy Store and Fold ‘n Store include umbrellas, but they are basic. The Lifetime tables do not include umbrellas but accept standard replacement umbrellas through the table hole.
Plan for Cleaning and Maintenance
HDPE plastic cleans with a wet rag or disinfectant wipe. Wood needs sealing, sanding, and occasional re-staining. For a low-maintenance household, plastic is the practical choice. For a family that wants the table to look like grown-up patio furniture, wood is worth the extra effort.
For more context on kids furniture, our guide to family buying guides covers other kid-friendly upgrades for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is appropriate for a kids picnic table?
Most kids picnic tables are designed for ages 18 months to 8 years, but the right fit depends on seat height. For toddlers under 4, look for a seat height of 9 to 11 inches, like the Step2 Sun u0026amp; Shade or Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. For kids 4 to 8, a seat height of 12 to 14 inches works best, which is what the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table and Step2 Naturally Playful offer. Most tables list a recommended age range in the product specs, and our buying guide above breaks down the right size for each age group.
What is the best material for a kids outdoor table?
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic is the most popular material for kids outdoor tables because it resists UV, stains, and water, wipes clean, and does not splinter. Powder-coated steel frames, like the one inside the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table, add strength without adding weight. Real wood like the hemlock used in the Best Choice Products 3-in-1 table has a more premium look and higher weight capacity, but it needs annual sealing to prevent warping. For most families, HDPE plastic is the best balance of durability, safety, and low maintenance.
What type of picnic table lasts the longest?
HDPE plastic tables with powder-coated steel frames, like the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table and the Step2 Naturally Playful, last the longest in our testing. Parents on r/BuyItForLife report 5+ years of use with proper storage, and the 2 to 3 year manufacturer warranty on these models is the strongest in the category. Wood tables can last just as long if they are sealed annually and stored under cover. Budget plastic tables without a steel frame tend to crack in UV exposure within one to two seasons, so we recommend avoiding the cheapest options.
What size table for a 7 year old?
For a 7 year old, look for a table with a seat height of 12 to 14 inches and a bench length of at least 30 inches so the child has room to sit comfortably. The Lifetime Kids Picnic Table at 32.5 inches deep seats a 7 year old well, and the Step2 Naturally Playful fits up to six kids at this age with elbow room. The Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. is too small for a 7 year old because it is designed for ages 18 months to 5 years. If multiple 7 year olds will use the table at once, prioritize a square design like the Little Tikes Fold n Store, which lets every child reach the center.
Are plastic or wooden picnic tables better for kids?
Plastic picnic tables are better for most families because they are lighter, easier to clean, weather resistant, and splinter free. They also tend to be cheaper and require no sealing or staining. Wooden picnic tables are better for households that want a premium look and higher weight capacity, and they are willing to seal the wood once a year. For a 2 to 6 year old, plastic is the safer and more practical choice. For a child age 6 to 10 who will use the table daily, a wood model with proper sealing is a great long-term investment.
Final Verdict on the Best Kids Picnic Tables
After 60+ hours of testing and comparing, the Lifetime Kids Picnic Table is our pick for the best kids picnic table overall. It folds flat in seconds, holds 200 lb, wipes clean, and has 7,500+ parent reviews backing it up. For families with younger toddlers, the Step2 Sun & Shade is the better fit, and for households that need built-in shade, the Step2 Naturally Playful is worth the higher price.
No matter which model you choose, a kids picnic table gives your children a space of their own for snacks, crafts, and outdoor play. Pick the one that matches your child’s age and your storage situation, and it will earn its place in the backyard for years to come.