From PDX with Love

Decorating a child’s bedroom is a chance to experiment, but be aware that children have definite ideas of their own. Take into account their tastes, age and interests. Be wary of themes, though, and especially of passing crazes, unless you relish re-decorating.

You will still be able to indulge yourself in the nursery, however. Make good use of primary colors here. Mobiles will hold the baby’s gaze, but why not paint your own mural onto a wall? Framed and dated handprints, or footprints, will create souvenirs to treasure in later years. And don’t forget a height chart for the years to come!

Turn sleeping quarters into a den, where they can be creative at any time of day. Position furniture close to a window, as the perfect light source for your child’s bedroom, or substitute table lamps for natural light, if it’s more appropriate. Paint surfaces white for maximum reflection.

According to a study, a child has five times its own body weight in possessions, so plan plenty of storage. Stick to neutral for paintwork and wallpaper, and reserve strong colors for accessories. They will be easier and cheaper to change when required.

If a family has to share, a room divider might be appreciated. They can personalize on both sides to enable roommates to express their separateness; or let them use the walls as their canvas. Table lamps in each section will allow them to light up their own spaces separately.

Child-sized furniture is easy to obtain, with auction rooms, second-hand shops and markets being good hunting-grounds. Wood is a hard wearing material, and easy to repaint. Beds can be bunk beds if space is tight, or can have storage beneath them. As well as shelves and drawers, a large box should help to keep the floor tidy. Stencil your child’s name on the side of the container to encourage them to put away belongings.

Painted and upturned boxes would also make novel bedside cupboards, with table lamps to give the room a cozy glow. Make storage child-friendly to aid the development of tidy habits. A wardrobe with curtains in place of doors allows easier access, and is safer for small fingers. Attach pictures of contents to drawers, to get your children used to finding things for themselves (and hopefully, filing them away again afterwards!).

Involve your child in the project, and it will be a satisfying experience for both of you.

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