Homes can benefit from having a separate play area for kids, but parents need to be more creative and plan the space well when there isn't enough space in the house. Regardless of the size of the play area, it's still worth setting up a dedicated space where the kids can learn to be more creative and cooperative with their siblings or invited friends.
Decorator Denise Davies said via Elle Decor that kids need their own space to "create, pretend and have fun," but when dealing with smaller spaces, here are some essential things to consider when setting up the play area for kids.
1. It should be rid of clutter.
For many organizational gurus, bins are very important regardless of the play area size. The more bins there are, the better it is for organizing the kids' toys, books, arts and crafts, and other items. If more than one child uses the play area, bins are also very useful for arranging the kids' stuff depending on their ages.
Bins are also great for small spaces because they can keep the play area looking unified and put together. What clutter remains can be easily hidden behind one of the many bins.
2. Keep it simple and functional.
The truth is, kids will play anywhere for as long as there's a table and some chairs. Anything elaborate or over-the-top in the play area is either for the parents' aesthetics or comfort. So as not to waste too much money and space on the play area's furniture or interior design, consider picking out stuff that is simple or that the children will take a while to outgrow.
Have only things in the play area that will be used quite often. Otherwise, parents could blow their budget on non-functional pieces that even the kids will quickly get tired of. Pick out items that offer double duty. For instance, an ottoman with storage space under it would be useful in a play area because it functions as a seat and a bin all in one.
Professional play area decorator Karri Bowen-Poole said via Parents that moms and dads should think of items that all of their kids may maximize. Donate the pieces that the kids no longer use to avoid clutter.
3. Use the walls.
Walls in rooms are often overlooked, and not many parents may realize that this could also be a corner for activities. Rock climbing panels or holders can be installed on the walls so the kids can have a workout area when it's raining or snowing outside and they cannot be outdoors.
These spaces could also be a massive canvas for drawings or artworks. Special paints may be applied to walls so they can become an instant blackboard. What child doesn't love to draw on walls?
According to Cool Mom Picks, walls may also be installed with shelves for the children's books, especially for play areas that do not have a lot of floor space. Add anchored pegs on the walls to hang items, such as the kids' bags or coats, so these do not have to be on the floor or table.
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