The transition from a baby to a toddler is an exciting process. The bedroom furniture, layout and design that worked when your child was younger may no longer be appropriate. Here are some tips to help you create a new bedroom for your toddler.
Choose Furniture That’s Functional, Stylish and Safe
A toddler needs a big-kid bed that sits at a safe height and has a comfortable mattress. You may be able to buy a bed that’s decorated with an image of a favorite character, that’s designed to resemble a car or that has some other feature that appeals to your child. You may also be able to take an ordinary toddler bed and modify it yourself. Avoid bunk beds due to the risk of falls and injuries.
Toddlers tend to have lots of belongings, and bedrooms can get messy if there isn’t a clearly defined system to keep things organized. Use a toy box, shelves, cubbies, baskets and plastic bins to store toys, books and clothes and avoid clutter. Mark containers with pictures or colors so a child who can’t yet read will know where things belong.
Young kids are fond of climbing. Furniture that isn’t anchored to a wall can tip over and cause serious injuries to a toddler. Make sure that all furniture is secured to prevent an accident.
Include Personal Touches and an Area for Favorite Activities
The new bedroom design should reflect your toddler’s unique personality. Decorate the room with artwork your child created, photos of family members and friends and a sign with your child’s name.
If your toddler likes to look at books, paint or dress up and put on performances, set aside a space for that activity. Select appropriate furniture and accessories that will make your toddler feel comfortable and look forward to spending time there. Make the special area a focal point in the room.
Your toddler may be obsessed with a particular TV or movie character, animal or color right now, but that will likely change in a matter of months. Incorporate your child’s current favorite things in the new bedroom design, but don’t go overboard. That will help you avoid having to make major changes in the near future.
Encourage Your Child to Provide Input
Ask your toddler for help redesigning the bedroom. Inquire about preferred paint colors, furniture, curtains, artwork and other key elements. You will most likely get a wide range of responses, and many of them may be completely impractical. Focus on the ones that you can make happen. That will make your child feel excited, rather than anxious, about the changes.
