Turning Your Home into a Child-Friendly Space

Children can spend a significant amount of time at home, especially if they are not of school-going age. Thus, it’s important to create an environment that is clean, organised, and safe for the little ones to roam around.

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1. Consider Your Flooring Options

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Look for flooring that is easy to clean in the event of food spills or marker (or any kind of stationery) stains. Besides the perennial favourites that are tiles and vinyl, another popular flooring option is Bamco, made from 100% recyclable bamboo charcoal. It is non-toxic, slip-proof and scratch-resistant – making it perfect for the children in the house.

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Tumbles and falls are inevitable, especially for the younger ones who are just learning how to walk. For spaces where your children are likely to spend most of their time, consider adding a rug or foam mat. Besides providing a soft underfoot that cushions falls, a rug or mat can inject some playfulness into the area. Retailers such as HipVan and IKEA offer a wide selection of rugs, carpets and mats that are versatile and durable.

2. Opt For VOC-Free Paint

Did you know that certain interior paints emit Volatile Organic Vompounds (VOCs)? These low-level toxic emissions can affect the air quality and may cause light-headedness.

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However, there is a variety of environmentally-friendly paints in the market, that are safe for the entire family. When choosing paints, look out for ranges that offer odourless and non-toxic paint that are VOC-free.

3. Easy-to-Maintain Walls

For kids who have a flair for drawing, opt for washable paint formulas, so clean up is less of a headache should they choose to unleash their inner Picasso on the walls! Otherwise install a chalkboard, whiteboard, or laminated surface in a designated area for your children’s doodle adventures.

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4. Multi-functional and Timeless Furniture

Children’s furniture should be without sharp edges. For added protection, you can also add corner protectors to cushion the little ones against any bumps. As children tend to outgrow their furniture quickly, plan ahead and invest in multifunctional pieces that can grow with your children’s needs! This could mean buying cots that can become toddler beds, and even a study table! Well-made furniture in classic, muted tones can also see your children through their growing years.

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5. Maximising Space

From storing toys to stashing stationery, storage spaces will always come in handy.

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To better organise the play space, consider storage drawers or shelves to hide the mess! However, depending on the child’s age, it’s important to ensure that they can retrieve their toys safely and independently even when you’re not in the room. This could mean low, open shelves, or lightweight storage bins.