Get Them Involved
Even very young children can have firm ideas about what they want their bedroom to look like, so don’t hesitate to ask toddlers about favourite colours, toys or choice of duvet design. Getting their input and incorporating their ideas boosts their confidence and self-esteem as well as helping them feel more connected to the space. With older children it’s even more beneficial to try and include their preferences.
Create Activity or Personal Zones
When children have different interests or hobbies, they each need a space to do their thing. One child might enjoy a reading nook with a bean bag to lounge on while they browse their personal library. The other might prefer crafts with paints or glue and stickers. Alternatively, both kids might like the same activities, but at different times. Set up small activity areas so they’re not getting in each other’s way when they want to do different things.
Other ideas, if there is space, include using curtains or room dividers to create a sense of privacy or a place to retreat to.
Choose a Neutral Base Colour
With a fairly neutral colour as a base on the walls, you can give each child the option of personalising their own part of the room in different ways. You could choose soft grey, beige or gentle pastels for the base colour, then allow each child to choose wall decals, colourful bedding or accessories that match their personalities. A single base colour can help maintain a visual balance in the room so it doesn’t become too hectic despite accommodating different styles and preferences.
Use Versatile or Flexible Furnishings
If there’s room for two single beds, there is probably room for a couple of raised beds so you can give each child their own workstation or closet areas. Raised beds (or alternatively bunk beds if space it tight) can help open up the floor so there’s more room to play. Ottoman style single beds or divans are also a good option, to give each child their own private storage areas. Another idea is customised furniture, such as a headboard that can be decorated with initials or names, stickers or different paint colours.
Bring in colourful bins, cubbies or shelving that small children can easily access, maybe colour coding them for each child. Encourage the kids to organise their personal stuff and keep it tidy. Use folding desks, storage ottomans or chests and maybe a folding chair or two if kids are old enough to use them safely.
Use Self Storage for Seasonal Items
Kids often have so many toys they don’t know which to choose from. Try limiting the number available if you’re struggling to keep a shared room tidy. Instead of keeping all their toys in the bedroom, consider rotating periodically using a self storage unit. When they are bored with or just stop using an item, swap it for something different from the self storage room.
When they haven’t seen a toy or game for a while, it can seem fresh and new again, giving the item a whole new lease of life and providing you with better value for money when expensive toys get more playtime. This strategy can also help a shared bedroom feel less cluttered, cosier and more welcoming. It’s also a great place to stow sentimental items you want to save, or outgrown items you think would be useful for younger siblings.
*Collaborative post
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