I’ve never shared Linden’s “big boy” bedroom on here before (except for when it used to be our guest bedroom) but during the last year, his room has slowly transitioned from nursery to toddler room. Along the way I realized there are some great ‘tips’ to keep in mind while creating a sweet and inviting (and functional) toddler room, and today I’m here to share those tips with you!
Oh, and for those interested, you can see Linden’s nursery mood board here and the finished nursery here…
I will link all sources at the bottom of this post.
Tip #1: Age appropriate art
Art in any room should be appropriate in scale and context for the ‘function’ of the room, so make sure that’s the case for your little one as well. Big, bright, colourful and engaging art is a must for a toddler room, And, don’t get stuck feeling that you have to put it in a traditional frame. Try something different like magnetic poster ‘frames’. They look more casual than a traditional frame and bonus – no glass that can break should the art fall. Hang your art on a cool hook to add a bit of whimsy and charm.
Tip #2: Double-duty decor
Like every room, not everything in your toddler’s bedroom is going to be there just to look nice or be cute. There is always the need for ‘teaching’ moments as your child grows. Some things are needed purely for function, but that doesn’t mean they can’t serve double-duty and add to your decor as well!
For example, This sweet “sleep sheep” clock turns red when it’s time for bed, stays red all night, turns yellow half an hour before it’s time to rise and turns green when it’s okay to get up. This helps your child learn how to “tell time” at the most basic level. It’s a double-duty decor item FTW!
Another idea is using something like milestone blocks (which are typically just decor) as a teaching item rather than just displaying them on a shelf. Linden regularly takes these blocks down and uses them to reinforce learning his numbers by stacking the blocks and counting the number combinations he makes.
Tip #3: Visual toy storage
Okay, so our little ones can’t read – yet – so set them up for success by creating fun, visual labels to help stay organized and put their toys away. Allowing your child to clean up their own toys helps them build confidence and feel in control of their surroundings. And bonus – it makes your job easier!
Tip #4: Comfort items
Don’t get too caught up in trying to make your toddler’s room look too “perfect” or “instagram worthy”. Make sure you leave room for your child’s favourite stuffies, blankies and (cringe) Paw Patrol themed pillow case if they love it! It’s their room after all! (And, yes, tucked behind the owl pillow is a Paw Patrol pillow). Ha!
Tip #5: Lighting for kids
Like any room in your house, your toddler’s room can benefit by layering in lighting! There are many adorable “childproof” lights on the market, making it safe and easy to have one at your child’s reach. Linden loves this owl lamp and turning the over head lights off at night and just having this one on during bedtime stories creates a sweet and cosy atmosphere as he winds down for the day.
Tip #6: Personal artwork
What to do with all those artwork gems that come home from daycare? Display them in your toddler’s room so they can feel proud of their work! Not only does it add another layer of decor to the room, it also adds a personal touch which helps with making any room feel instantly welcoming.
Hint – a front loading frame will make rotating this art really easy!
Tip #7: A touch of whimsy
A toddler room isn’t complete without a little bit of magic! Add a fairy tent, a ceiling projector or even a simple string of lights to add a sweet, yet unexpected touch.
Do you already use any of these tips in your toddler’s room or have any additional ones to share? Creating a warm, inviting and safe space for your little one may seem daunting, but don’t forget to have fun with it and like all rooms, let it evolve and grow over time.
Sources: Artwork • Artwork hooks • Circle rope mirror (similar) • Curtains • Dresser • Headboard • Magnetic frames • Nightstand • Owl lamp • Sleep sheep • String lights • Toy storage bins – white, green, blue (similar colour) • Toy storage unit
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