The only space kids truly have to themselves is their rooms. Kids are no different than adults in that they want their bedrooms to be a space they enjoy and that reflects their personality. Why not make your kid’s room that much more personal and special?
1. Wall art- The best way to make something your own is to write your name on it, and kids feel the same way. Why not put their names on the wall? There are a myriad of stencils out there in every size and font imaginable. Use your child’s favorite colors and embellish with decals, rhinestones and the like. Older kids might not want their names on the walls, but might like to put their favorite words up, like “laugh,” “courage,” or “hope.”
2. Reading/ play nook- Kids need a special spot to read, create or study. While I wouldn’t recommend putting an art studio in a 5-year-old’s room, that same 5-year-old might like a place to look at books or play toys. Start when your child is young- a toddler would love a soft sheepskin rug, pillows to sit on and baskets with favorite toys. As they grow older the pillows can be replaced with an armchair for reading, or a desk to do homework. The point is to make it a space that’s age-appropriate and a place they want to be. Make personalized pillows or chair covers using sports fabric for boys, flower fabric for girls, or a library print for a reading space.
3. The bed- Big bed or small, daybed or bunk bed, kids need a comfortable, restful place to sleep. There are bunch of ways to make that happen, and lots of things that your little one can pick out themselves. Safety is an important issue- pillows and even blankets do not belong in the beds of children under a year, and bumpers are cute but not always a good idea. But there are lots of safe and easy ways to make bed a happy place. Crib skirts are a great option for babies, and for older kids duvet covers are a simple thing to make. Padded headboards are another customizable project, and what kid wouldn’t like pillowcases stenciled with their favorite characters or animals?
In addition to what you’ve seen here, fabric can be used in a myriad of ways in kid’s room. A soft chenille throw for baby, slipcovers in broadcloth, or even fabric hangings for the walls. The only thing I’d keep in mind is that kid’s tastes change dramatically as they get older, so I wouldn’t do anything less changeable than fabric or paint. Other than that, be enthusiastic and have fun!
By Becky Kauffman
