I have the Kritter set too, got off craigslist for $20 - I hit a jackpot in that the set included a bench that IKEA since discontinued. DS loved it.

What I did is paint the tabletop in chalkboard paint and install a paper roll on one end, similar to higher-end art/craft tables that Alex Toys makes. We have it pushed against the wall, and on the wall there is a bar (got in IKEA accessories dept) from which we hang little baskets with crayons, chalk etc. Works great, looks cute. I think it might be too small for two children, though, so we'd get a bigger table at that point.

FWIW, we have the $20 Latt set and an active toddler who throws. He can pick up the chairs by himself, which is a plus for us, but has yet to consider throwing them. (Maybe when he hits the 4-5 range?) And the chairs (so far) have held DH and I. Cleans up easily with a Magic Eraser.

OP here -- looks like Ikea wins! Thanks for all of the input. We are headed there to pick up a play kitchen, so will add table and chairs to the list!

I was definitely concerned about the "pick up and throw" aspect for the super lightweight/plastic stuff. Adding annoying cleanup to the mix just seals the deal.

Many thanks again!

Glad to hear the love of IKEA Kritter. We just bought one!

We took the approach of taking our kid to IKEA and seeing what appealed. We also noticed that the Kritter was in good shape, but one of the other models on the floor, one with a darker stain, was completely beat up and looked terrible. Also, the cheapest model, $20 for two chairs and a table, was so light I was pretty sure our son would be able to pick it up and throw it in the near future.