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11 Best Workbenches for Kids (2020) – Reviews

Is there a little builder in your life? Do you have a child who loves making things with their hands? If so, there is a good chance you are searching for the best workbenches for kids. While you may not know it yet, this seemingly simple toy can help develop many of your child’s skills and encourage their creativity.

Like the standard play kitchen, a kid’s workbench can be a beneficial toy for your child’s growth and development. They’ll hone hand-eye coordination, practice small motor skills, and more!

When you begin looking for the right workbench for your child, you will find many options. We have tried to make this decision a little easier by rounding up the best workbenches for kids. Besides providing you some options to choose from, you will also find a few tips to keep in mind during your search.

Top Workbenches for Kids

Now it is time to review some of the top workbenches for kids and what makes them so appealing.

1. Master Workbench by Hape

The most unique feature of the Master Workbench by Hape is the adjustable height option it offers. Thanks to this convenient feature, the workbench can grow as your child does.

You will also find plenty of storage under the bench, where you can easily store all 32 of the pieces that are included with the set. Some of the included components include gears your child can twist into the pegboard, which is a great tool for teaching the concept of cause and effect. This workbench is recommended for children who are age three and up.

2. Step2 Workbench Deluxe Pretend Workshop

For most parents, one of the features that stands out the most is the large storage space available in this workbench. However, there are more advanced features, too, such as the overhead work light, shop vac, and bin. Thanks to the included pegboard, it is easy to keep the tools together and organized.

The workbench comes with 50 pieces, including an electric drill and two heads, pliers, screwdrivers, and a spring-action vise, to name a few.

3. Black+Decker Junior Power Work Bench

Featuring 75 different tools, you can feel confident your little one will have plenty of things to do and parts to play with, which will keep them busy for hours on end. Even better, this workbench features a life-like, realistic design, which is a plus compared to some of the other options on the list.

With these features, you will find that your child’s imagination comes to life. Their creative skills will be put to the test, which will help them improve significantly. Along with this, there are fun sound effects and light features available, too.

This workbench might be the perfect option if you want to improve your child’s auditory and visual learning senses. Thanks to the hands-on approach that is encouraged, your child’s hand-eye coordination and motor skills will be enhanced and developed.

4. Melissa & Doug Wooden Project Workbench

If you want a classic workbench for your little one, Melissa & Doug deliver with the classic look featured here. Along with an array of tools, you will find all the parts and pieces work together, which helps to keep your little one engaged and entertained for hours. The toy is perfect for any child who loves to build things and work with their hands.

It features a step-by-step instruction guide for up to six projects, along with a spacious storage compartment underneath to help make clean-up easy and fast.

For those who like the idea of natural toys, this is a great option. It is designed with high-quality and durable wood, which ensures safety and stability for your child. It is designed for children between the ages of three and six.

5. Step2 489099 Pro Play Workshop & Utility Bench

When it comes to child workbenches, it does not get bigger or better than the Step2 Pro Play workshop. This option has all the bells and whistles you could want and your child could ask for. While it is more expensive than some of the other options on the list, it also comes with the most parts and pieces – not to mention, it is massive. The workbench features a 76-piece accessory kit along with several foam projects for your little ones to work on and put together.

By choosing this workbench, your child gets an array of activities to enjoy. Along with the traditional workbench setup, this toy also comes with a pull-out utility bench, utility sink, and a lot of storage space for all the parts and accessories. The bench is designed for children ages three and up.

6. EverEarth Toddler Workbench

If you do not have enough space or a ton of square footage in your home, then this workbench is perfect for you. You can fit on a shelf, and it is made of eco-friendly wood, which is even better. The workbench is also completely toxin-free, which means you can feel good about your child playing with it and being safe.

This set is offered with five tools, along with wooden screws, nails, and an array of other accessories. It is important to note that this workbench comes with several smaller pieces, which means it is best to reserve it for use with children who are age three or more.

7. FAO Schwarz Solid Wood Toy Workbench

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Are you looking for a high-quality, durable workbench for your child? If so, this option will exceed your expectations. It is also designed with non-toxic materials and is small enough to store in a closet when not being used.

Even though this workbench features a classic design, it still offers your little carpenters plenty of interactive components. The back portion of the workbench includes pre-drilled holes, which the child can use their nails and hammer to fill them. There is also a working vice included.

This bench offers your child the ability to work on their hand-eye coordination, as well as their fine motor skills. While some assembly is required, it is possible to put the toy together with just a few tools that most people have at home. This workbench is ideal for children ages three and older.

8. Little Tikes Tough Workshop

Most of the workbenches available today are designed for children who are age three or older. However, this is not the case with the Little Tikes Tough Workshop. This workbench comes with recommendations from the manufacturer that state it is designed for children ages two and up.

It offers a simple, basic design and is not too busy for younger children. You will have 11 accessories and a sliding door under the bench for storage of tools and parts. There is also a pegboard on the back of the bench featuring hooks to provide optimal storage solutions.

This workbench is simple to use, which is great for any child who is just learning to pretend and play. Included with the workbench are nails and a hammer, which can be used to fill the holes. This is great for improving your child’s hand-eye coordination.

9. Toy Tool Workbench by Young Choi

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Unlike other workbenches on this list, this Toy Tool Workbench does not feature a pegboard back. However, do not be too disappointed. The unique design and vibrant colors make it fun and engaging for any child, regardless of age.

The tools are life-like and fit perfectly in your child’s hands. With this tool bench, your child can enjoy hours of endless play and pretend to build things, which will improve their hand-eye coordination and motor skills.

10. Imagination Generation Wooden Workbench

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Do you have a child who is also an aspiring shipwright (this is someone who builds and fixes ships)? If so, why not combine their love for ships and their love of fixing things? With this workbench, you can do just that.

The set includes six tools, 26 fasteners, 10 bolts, six nails, and 10 nuts. You also get six pieces of working wood and four additional accessories that are necessary for any sea captain, including an anchor, life preserver, chest, and compass. You can even stick the included jolly roger at the top and make the wheel spin.

11. Hape Deluxe Scientific Workbench

Do you have a child who loves everything related to science? If so, this scientific workbench featuring various tools for pretend experiments will be right up their alley.

It offers interesting and colorful designs, and when your child plays, it can help improve their hand-eye coordination and motor skills.

How to Choose the Right Workbench for Your Child

Now that you have a better idea of the different workbenches that are available for kids and toddlers, you can start narrowing down your search to the ones you believe would be best for your child.

If you still are not completely confident in what to choose, do not worry. You can use the following buying guide to help narrow down the options and find the perfect workbench for your child.

To find the right workbench, you need to consider the features offered and what would be most appealing to your child based on their interests and age. You also have to consider the amount of space you have for the workbench and if you want something that is more life-like or toy-like.

Cost and Storage

Like most parents, there is nothing more anxiety-inducing than a toy with countless pieces and parts. Chances are, you want something that is easy to organize and keep tidy.

While the word “pieces” may be somewhat scary, there are steps you can take to alleviate this fear. First, find out if you have a location to store the workbench and all the pieces it comes with. Some toys feature places to hang up the tools while others have bins to hold them. With these features, it is going to be easy to keep things neat and organized.

Vibrations, Lights, Noises, and Other Interactive Add-Ons

Some children’s workbenches are considered more classic in their design and style and only come with the “bare bones” with no additional features or sounds. However, other options are more high-tech and have an array of vibrations, sounds, and other visual and auditory features.

If you want to avoid noisy toys, you should see if there is a volume control option. You can also accidentally leave the batteries out of the workbench you choose.

Age Appropriateness

When trying to find a toy for any child, you should consider if it is right for their age and maturity level. There are a few options you can likely cross-off your list right away.

Inclusion of Small Pieces

If you need a workbench for your child under the age of three, try to find bigger pieces with smooth edges. Many toy workbenches are designed for children over the age of three. The main reason for this is because they include pieces that may be a choking hazard because of their shape and size.

When you are shopping, use your judgment to figure out what is right for your child. This can help you decide if one workbench is the right option for your child.

Common FAQs About Purchasing a Child’s Workbench

If you are ready to buy, you may still have a few questions. Some of the most commonly asked questions about buying children’s workbenches can be found here.

Will Your Child Figure the Workbench Out Easily?

Like when you think about the small pieces, you should also determine how difficult the workbench will be for your child to use. Cater to your child’s needs and what stage of development they’re in. Take some time to look at the workbench’s design and operation to find the right one for your child’s needs.

What Age Is Perfect for Introducing Your Child to a Workbench?

According to most manufacturers, the minimum age to introduce your child to a pretend workbench is one year. However, it depends on the workbench that you choose. Be sure to find one that is age-appropriate.

Should Your Child Be Supervised While Playing with the Workbench?

It is smart to supervise your child while they are playing. This will help ensure your child uses the toy safely and that they do not create a hazardous situation, such as putting small parts in their mouth. You can also bond with your child while playing together.

Do the Woods Used for Workbenches Cause Allergies?

This is a huge “no.” Wood that is used for building these toys is considered non-toxic. This means they will not cause any allergic reactions.

How Much Weight Can the Workbench Hold?

Children often like to sit on workbenches. If this is a habit your child has, it may require you to find a more durable workbench. Try to look at the materials and construction for the product. You should also avoid any down-market products to help prevent this issue or inconvenience.

Finding the Right Option for Your Child

With the many options out there, it may be difficult to choose the right workbench for your kids. If you are like most parents, you want to ensure the toy you choose for your child is safe and a good fit for their developmental needs. This can make finding toys that help develop your child’s fine and gross motor skills so difficult.

There are many options on this list, so it is a good idea to think about your child and find an option that will grow with your child from their early toddler years to their time in elementary school.

Another important consideration is practicality. Many people want to declutter, which means that finding a practical option is a must. For example, if you have a budding scientist or a child who wants to be a captain, there are workbench options specifically designed for them that serve double duty.

Being informed and knowing what to look for is the best way to ensure you get the bench that suits your wants and needs, and that will entertain and excite your child. The fact is that any of the workbenches on this list will provide your child with a fun toy that helps them learn new things, and that encourages free play. Keep the tips here in mind to help with this goal, helping you with the decision-making process.