Whether you are a parent, foster carer, or soon to become either, creating a safe, engaging, and stylish home environment for children is important. With some strategic planning and design choices, you can craft an inviting, functional, and beautiful home that works for children and adults alike. This article will provide tips on how to make your home child-friendly without sacrificing your sense of style.
Safety First
When children are present, safety should always be the number one priority. Take the time to childproof each room by covering sharp corners, securing loose furniture to walls, installing safety gates near stairs, and using cord shorteners and outlet covers. Be sure to keep small objects, medications, cleaning products, and other hazardous items locked and out of reach. Consider softer materials like carpeting or rugs to cushion falls. Bright lighting in play areas and nightlights in hallways will also help prevent accidents.
Bedrooms for Kids
A child’s bedroom should be a place they can comfortably play, sleep, and study. Foster children in particular need their own dedicated bedroom where they can feel secure and at home. Opt for whimsical details like patterned wallpaper, colourful bedding, and charming artwork to add visual interest. Include toy storage like bins and shelving to keep playtime clutter contained. For school-aged children, a desk and chair for homework is essential—you can use some of your fostering allowance for this. And don’t forget accessible clothing storage like low dressers they can easily reach.
Play and Study Spaces
Active kids need room to safely play, so carve out engaging spots both indoors and outside. An indoor play nook with a rug, child-size table and chairs gives little ones a dedicated spot for playtime. Arts and crafts supplies can be stored nearby for easy access. For older kids, having a desk in their bedroom as well as a central family study area allows focused homework time. And getting fresh air is important too. Create an enclosed outdoor play space with playsets, sandboxes, and lush grass. The back garden can double as a reading spot on nice days.
Child-Friendly Furnishings
Choosing the right furniture helps craft a child and adult friendly home. Opt for durable, easy to clean fabrics like microfiber, leather, and performance upholstery. Sectionals with washable slipcovers can adapt as your family grows. Avoid delicate upholstery that could stain easily. Washable rugs are ideal for high traffic areas. And of course, include furnishings sized just for children like pint-sized tables and chairs.
Storage Solutions
Between school supplies, toys, games, and more, adequate storage is essential in a child-friendly home. Built-in cabinetry and shelving keeps rooms from feeling cluttered. Label bins and baskets so children can put items away properly. For smaller belongings, open cubbies with hooks allow backpacks, jackets, and more to be stored neatly. If space is tight, utilise storage beds and ottomans to tuck away extra toys and clothing.
Stylish Touches
Just because your home is child-friendly, doesn’t mean it has to feel juvenile. Incorporate stylish finds you love alongside child-approved pieces. An elegant pendant light instantly elevates a playroom, while graphic throw pillows add visual interest to a family room sofa. Choose classic furnishings like carved wood dining chairs and antique consoles that work now and as your kids grow. And display meaningful art, like gallery prints showcasing ABCs or colourful maps, that everyone can appreciate.
Welcoming children into your home, whether permanently or as a foster carer, requires adjustments, but it doesn’t mean compromising style. Focus first on safety, then include dedicated spaces for play, study, and rest. With some creativity and planning, you can design a home that seamlessly blends child-friendly function and beautiful form.