The best desks for kids, according to an occupational therapist

• A good kids' desk gives a child a place to complete homework, create art, play games, read, and snack.
• We spoke to an occupational therapist and furniture industry expert who advise guardians to consider both their child's needs and the physical space in which a desk will reside.
• The Kid Kraft Study Desk with Chair is our top pick thanks to its great price for a desk-chair combo, its multiple storage spots, and its kid-friendly aesthetic.
• See also: the best desks, best standing desks, and best office chairs.

Think about your desk at your workplace or in your home office — what do you use it for? Mostly work, right? And maybe some web browsing and emails and, for that desk at home, perhaps some gaming and video chats too. Now think about a kids' desk. Sure, they'll use it for homework and school projects, but for a kid, a desk can be so much more than a workstation.

A great kids' desk is also an art studio, a snack spot, a reading nook, a Lego-building platform, and so much more. Choosing the best desk for your kid is not to be taken lightly though. According to Elaine Krebs a registered occupational therapist based in Port Washington, New York, finding a great desk for a kid is about much more than one that looks good in the space — it is a matter of physiological health and success at schoolwork and other projects.

There are many factors to consider when thinking about your best options, including budget, function, the child's age, where the desk will be used (the bedroom, a corner of a playroom, or the family room, for example) and whether multiple kids will share it.

Also, carefully consider the size of your child, as choosing a desk of the right size and height is critical. "A desktop should be right between a child's elbow and shoulder," said Krebs. "When they're in their chair, their ankles should be at 90 degrees, their knees at 90 degrees, and the desktop the right height for them to work comfortably."

I spoke to Chris Wilson, chief executive officer of Smart Furniture, a Tennessee-based online retailer of custom home and office furniture. "We recommend people consider smaller desks for children and teens," he said. "They generally come with a more modest price tag and they tend to fit well in kids' or bonus rooms. That said, don't go too small! Make sure the desk surface is big enough that someone can actually work from it for a full day."

Regardless of the price, aesthetics, and dimensions of the desk that ultimately seems the best fit for your kid, know that getting them their very own desk not only creates a place for them to do their work but also encourages a better work ethic.

• Best kids' desk overall: KidKraft Study Desk with Chair
• Best kids' desk for small spaces: Foundstone Noelle Solid Wood Leaning Ladder Desk
• Best kids' bed/desk combo: Three Post Nickelsville Loft Bed With Drawers
• Best budget kids' desk: South Shore Smart Basic Kids Desk
• Best kids' desk for corners: Porch & Den Lincoln Corner Desk