Let kids help design their rooms

Everyone is happier when they have their own spaces. And, whether raising newborns or teens, there’s no arguing that parents also need kids to have their own designated spaces.

When designing those spaces for a brand-new home, think of the process as a growth opportunity. Create spaces that can easily adapt as kids of all ages grow and change, all the while providing comfort, respite, brightness, and liveliness.

Foundational aspects first

Furniture must come first. The higher the quality, the longer the furniture will last, but out-of-the box, DIY-assembly furniture also has benefits; it’s sleek, portable and can be stored more easily when not in use. When shopping, remember that a bookshelf makes a nice nightstand.

Before moving in, determine any closet organization systems the children’s rooms will need for the next five or six years. Sliding closet doors may come standard, but folding doors may provide better access to the contents of the closet.

Also consider rod height, adjustable shelving, upper storage space and any built-in drawers in the closet.

During construction, ask about lighting. A single, overhead light may come standard, but consider a dimmer on it or inquire about which outlets can be controlled by wall switches.

Let little ones grow into spaces

There are a couple of ways to avoid the need for a changing table in a nursery or toddler’s room. The first is to choose a wide dresser that can double as a changing station. Fasten a changing topper and pads to the dresser and use the top drawer for supplies, blankets, washcloths and onesies.

The next is to choose a simple desk with a wide drawer for supply use and, if space allows, a bank of narrower drawers on the side.

Once again, think long-term and avoid the child-size desk. When the time comes, an adjustable chair will allow the desk to transition with the child from pre-K to college.

Next, decide if the room needs or can accommodate a rocker or a side chair. A comfortable, fullsize upholstered or leather chair, as opposed to a rocking chair or a childsize and decorative chair, will last longer.

Finally, some convertible cribs are smart choices, because they transition from crib to toddler bed and eventually to a double bed. Skip the ones that don’t transition all the way to true twin size or double bed.

To theme or not to theme?

The move to the brandnew home will be even more fun if the kids take part in planning their rooms. But avoid their pleas to decorate an entire room around today’s most popular video game character.

Children outgrow their favorite themes and fads almost as quickly as they outgrow shoes. Instead of designating a theme, work with children’s favorite colors on accent walls and in fabrics, curtains and artwork; position furniture and lighting to let energy flow well in the room.

If a new bed or beds is part of the plan, look at pairs of twin beds that, when the kids reach the appropriate age, can be paired as bunk beds in a room shared by more than one child or for sleepovers.

For older children, consider bed frames that can be elevated, leaving space under them for larger desks, storage or comfy, colorful bean bag chairs and pillows. Remember that this space will need lighting under it, so plan according to outlet configurations.

Let them do the setup

Organization is as important as comfort. And the best way for everything in a child’s room to have a place is for the child to lead or take part in arranging the room from the start.

It’s also much more fun to set up your own personal space than it is to have someone do it for you.

Choose paint colors and linens together in advance; if possible, purchase a supply of stylish storage baskets or under-bed containers before moving in. Also before moving, work with children to declutter their existing space, so that only what they really need or that you want to keep will take up space in their new rooms.

Some children may enjoy creating handdrawn or digital floor plans of their rooms showing where they might place certain pieces of furniture or accessories.

Devote some time on each day of the move-in and unpacking process to letting children lead the effort of putting everything in its place. Knowing that their preferences are important helps kids take ownership of their rooms and inspires them to keep spaces tidier.