It is so important to note that a space for a little human, is about creating an environment that sparks imagination, nurtures development and grows with them. We can easily get lost in the world of design when we focus on trends and styles, and neglect the idea of functionality and fun within that space.
Children are highly influenced by their surroundings, so understanding how design can impact their mood, behaviour, and learning is key to creating a space that fosters creativity, security, and growth.
When designing these spaces, we need to look at a few key elements, which includes the following questions.
- How to incorporate your child’s identity?
- What stimulates your child’s senses?
- How do we encourage creativity, growth and flexibility within that space?
Incorporating your child’s identity into their bedroom is a great way to make the space feel personalised and can often reflect their personalities. In a way it boosts their sense of ownership, comfort, and self-expression. Items/décor like art, throws, scatters, toys and others, that they can relate to, allows them to feel that sense of stability and security. By doing so we give out little humans the opportunity to grow within their space instead of restricting them from building an identity within their own environment.
Stimulating a child’s senses within their bedroom is an important part of creating an environment that supports their growth, learning, and well-being, just as we allow for identity to come through within their space. When done thoughtfully, sensory stimulation can spark creativity, relaxation, development, and emotional balance. We can incorporate these ideas by asking ourselves what textures, patterns, colours and smells will benefit our kids. It’s important to note that we design their space for them… NOT for ourselves.
Flexibility is essential because children’s needs, interests, and abilities change quickly. A room designed with flexibility in mind allows parents to easily adapt the space to suit those changes according to each child. The space should be inspiring, with access to a number of materials like art supplies, blocks, instruments, and even books while still making space for down/quiet time – creating designated areas. Another idea to foster creativity and growth would be to add large amounts of natural elements, such as natural light and greenery. This will create a calmer environment that will allow for wondering.
Designing spaces for our little humans is about creating a space that reflects and supports a child’s unique personality. These spaces should strike a balance between functionality and imagination, offering a safe, inspiring, and flexible environment. By keeping this space adaptable and inclusive of the child’s evolving interests, parents can now help foster a sense of comfort, ownership, and confidence, allowing your child to be themselves. Ultimately, when focusing and implementing those three key elements, you will create a space that will serve as a sanctuary where your little humans can rest, learn and dream.