With this in mind, do not simply lay a piece of wood on top of some books, or use a cheap, light, aluminum card table. Anything that is easily tipped over is a disaster waiting to happen (no matter how many times you tell the kids to be careful).

I use a heavy, old, dining room table that i picked up a few years ago at a garage sale. Not only is it solidly built, with leg braces to keep it steady, but the two end extensions have come in handy as we’ve added more buildings and accessories.

Not only are these buildings and accessories beautiful, but they are family memories that can be passed on to your children (my kids have already claimed their favorites, and they’re only 8). So protect your memories, and your investment, and make sure your village sits on a sturdy table, or other platform that is not easily knocked over.