Playing is an essential part of childhood. Through play, kids learn how to interact with the world, expand their imagination and creativity, and strengthen their cognitive, emotional, and physical skills. Having a room, or an area for play, is a benefit for children and parents alike. It gives your kids space to independently foster their potential while designating a specific spot for toys to help keep the rest of the house tidy. 

However, promoting unstructured play doesn’t mean the playroom itself has to follow suit. A kid’s room without organization and storage solutions can easily become a chaotic catch-all. These simple improvements can help you create a harmonious balance where functional and fun intertwine.

declutter

Before you embark on a playroom transformation, the first step is downsizing. Go through the toys and get rid of items that the kids have outgrown or are no longer in good shape. Between birthdays, holidays, and doting loved ones, kids amass an overwhelming amount of stuff. It’s okay to get rid of things that no longer fit their ever-evolving interests or skills.  Find somewhere to donate gently used items.

furniture that grows with them

Kids' furniture is undeniably adorable. But, before you go filling the room with teeny, tiny couches and tables, consider using some pieces that can adapt with them over the years. You likely don’t want to design a picture perfect playroom that needs to be completely refurnished next year when your child hits a growth spurt. A quality bookcase or desk could last into their teen years or beyond.

speaking of desks...

Having a flat surface, such as a desk or table, is a staple in any playroom. Kids need a versatile place that can be used for coloring, crafting, puzzles, and building. Even better if it doubles as a homework/writing spot!

free up floor space

Make use of the room’s vertical space with shelves. They’re a great alternative to bookcases or toy boxes if floor space is limited, and you can use them to showcase your child’s favorite knickknacks. They’ll have way more room to jump, stomp, and run with their belongings safely off the ground. Make sure to install shelves at a height your child can easily reach and don’t skimp on the mounting hardware! Likewise, stuffed animal hammocks are a good option for harboring the overflow of your child’s fluffiest friends.

storage solutions

Incorporate storage that’s both practical and appealing. Ottomans, storage benches, and bean bag chairs filled with stuffed animals are nice multi-use furniture pieces. The key to playroom organization is to create systems that make it as easy to put toys away as it is to get them out. Decorative bins, baskets, and storage cubes are an aesthetically pleasing go-to for keeping toys accessible.

keep it noncommital

As we mentioned, kids cycle through interests at a rapid pace. Today it’s Elsa everything, tomorrow their world revolves around dinosaurs. This can make it challenging to commit to a theme. Keeping the room as noncommittal as possible is the easiest route, but if your child is persistent about adding more pizazz, opt for wall decals or temporary wallpaper. You’ll be Parent of the Year and thanking yourself when your kid suddenly snubs Mickey.

solid footing

If your playroom glow up plans include new flooring, it’s important to go with something safe and durable. Materials that stain or wear easily aren’t going to cut it in a kid’s room. LVP is reasonably water and stain-resistant, and the core is engineered composite so it’s softer to walk on than tile or hardwood. Affordable flooring that you can easily replace down the road, like carpet squares or foam floors, would also be a good option. If you’re not looking to replace the floors, you can always use washable rugs to protect the current floor and add extra cushion.

artistic endeavors

Show your little Picassos that you’re their biggest fan with a unique art display. You can frame their work or use clipboards to switch it out periodically with new pieces. Another fun and budget-friendly showcase is securing the pictures with clothespins to twine or wire. They’ll be thrilled to proudly display their finest paintings!

a place to dream

Create a reading nook to encourage your little one to curl up with a book. A cozy spot with pillows, blankets, and their favorite stories is the best way to relax after a long day of play. 

With the proper playroom fixtures, you can create an engaging world of wonder that’s easy to maintain. It’s a win-win for the whole household!