wall of built in shelving with Pehr baskets

Parental Arts

5 Small Ways to Refresh Your Little One’s Space

Sometimes the littlest changes can have the biggest impact. Give your kids’ bedrooms a fresh new look for a new year with these easy tweaks that are fun as well as functional.

Change One Wall

“Painting a room or even an accent wall is a great way to refresh a space,” says Stacey-Ann Blake of Design Addict Mom. Wallpaper makes it even easier, and if you choose a removable option, you can always switch things up as they get older and their (and your) tastes change. Another fun idea: Paint a wall with chalkboard paint, and let them decorate it themselves.

white crib in front of a chalkboard wall

Add More Storage

The key to a cleaner kids room in 2021: A place for everything. Invest in a few beautiful storage baskets or a new bookshelf, install floating shelves to make the most of wall space, or even put up a hammock for stuffed animals. Put storage spots within your child’s reach to make it easy for them to put things away themselves.

Add Some New Art

When asked for her favorite tricks for a quick home refresh, Sally Breer, co-founder of ETC.etera, said “Art! Rearrange it. Collect new pieces!” Her go-to: Creative Growth in Oakland. Shop for artwork you and they will love for years, move pieces you already own into their room, or frame some of their artwork.

Create a Space Within the Space

Rather than having books, toys, and art supplies spread all over the room, corral items by type and create unique spaces that nurture your child’s interests. A table, chair, and cart full of colored pencils, paper, and crayons could occupy a “drawing corner” for your budding artist, or a tent or pile of floor pillows next to a low bookshelf could be a cozy reading nook.

Switch Up The Textiles

“Changing out accessories like throw pillows and rugs can work wonders,” says Blake. Consider a variety of textures, and even layering rugs, to add warmth and coziness. Fresh bedding is another easy way to make a room feel new again. You could also add a dreamy canopy over a bed or nook.