Decorating a Child’s Room From Crib to College
Carolyn Clark
Decorating a child’s room seems like a fun and easy process, but it can be hard to choose decor that fits your child’s personality, and doubly harder to select styles that will last longer than their latest obsession. So, if you’re looking for decorating tips to integrate kid’s only furniture into a timeless, yet fun and inviting space, here are some helpful tips
Don’t Buy Pieces That Are Too Trendy Or Themed
We know this is counterintuitive when thinking about decorating, but unless you can afford it, try to avoid large pieces of furniture that are too trendy or themed. Sure, your kid wants to be an astronaut today, but by next year, they may not want to sleep in a spaceship bed anymore. If you’re trying to stick to a budget, then choose large furniture pieces that will stand the test of time.
Keep larger pieces more neutral in terms of color and style, and add personalized decorations and pops of color throughout the room that reflect your child’s personality. This way, you can change the decorations when their interests change without spending too much.
Choose Good Quality Furniture
While you shouldn’t feel the need to spend an arm and a leg when you’re decorating your child’s room, don’t compromise on quality when it comes to something that is going to be in their lives for a long time. After all, shoddy materials and lead-based paint could endanger your child’s health. Opt for authentic, sturdy materials. Remember that a piece of furniture that’s meant to keep up with your kid’s energy and enthusiasm shouldn’t be made from flimsy particle board.
When you’re shopping, examine each piece to determine if it’s truly well-constructed. Purchasing solid, sturdy furniture that your child can grow into ensures that a piece could become an heirloom and will stay within your family for generations. However, once you purchase a high-quality bookcase or dresser, make sure that it is firmly attached to a wall. Many accidents at home can be avoided by choosing solid, well-made furniture that’s solidly in place.
Lots of Storage
Between clothes, toys, and sports equipment, kids seem to amass a lot of stuff. Making sure you have lots of storage available so that everything can stay easily organized. Choose bins and boxes that offer flexibility and accessibility. Also, think about integrating under-bed storage and other creative options like benches and storage seating for seasonal clothing and toys. According to the Domain, the idea is to find “versatile and multipurpose” pieces designed to save space.
For nurseries, you can hide storage under the crib when you add a crib skirt. When children get a little older, think about buying a daybed with built-in storage underneath. Other decorative items like pegboards and shelving can be appealing to the eye, and also add storage area for books, toys, and anything else in the room.
Ask Your Kids!
Once your kids are old enough to have opinions about decorating their space, be sure to get their input! Experts from Realtor.com say that involving children “ imparts a sense of ownership,” and that “They feel more relaxed and comfortable in [their] own territory.” If your kids love the furniture in their room, then you’ll also get more of your money’s worth, since those pieces will have staying power.
There is a large rise in children’s that combines safety and style. So, use these tips, and feel free to add some pops of fun and character in your kid’s room, like an accent wall in your child’s favorite color, or wall decals of their favorite cartoon character. Most importantly, have an open mind when decorating a child’s room because allowing for a few crazy colors here and there will encourage creativity.
Something to Grow Into
It’s not worth spending a small fortune on a bed that is the perfect fit for your child now. In a year or two, you’ll be right back at the store finding something new. For this reason, it’s a good idea to buy a larger bed and storage options for the future. When transitioning a nursery to a toddler’s room, choose a twin size bed and toddler-friendly carpets or rugs. If you’re uncomfortable with wallpaper, add artwork that will debut a more grown-up vibe for your child. Choose gender-neutral colors so everything can be reused if there is a new addition to the family or if you’re eventually thinking about using pieces in other parts of the house.
Decorating should be fun and collaborative. As your child grows up, give them more and more say in how their room looks and feels, and always think a step ahead in terms of how they’ll grow into their space. Kids grow up fast, and their rooms will likely represent those rapid changes from the time they’re in a crib to the moment they head off to college. So, have fun, don’t worry too much, and trust your best instincts!
Author Bio:
Carolyn Clark is a freelance writer and a proud mother of three. When she’s not writing about the latest trends in furniture, she’s in her workshop working on innovative kids only furniture designs and carpentry projects.
