The anticipation of a little one is a unique time that, on the one hand, seems to stretch endlessly as we eagerly await the meeting, and on the other hand, there’s so much to prepare that time begins to run short for everything.
Whether you’re expecting your first or another child, or simply moving to a larger space, check out what to pay special attention to when arranging a room for your little one.
Infant
During the first few months of your baby’s life, you’ll likely want to keep them as close to you as possible, especially if it’s your first child and joy is intertwined with a sense of fear.
Before the little one arrives, prepare a practical corner for them; for now, it will mainly be you – the parents – who will use it.
In the euphoria and excitement, you might feel like buying all the stuffed animals and colorful crib protectors you can get your hands on.
However, remember that safety is paramount, and you must ensure a constant flow of air in your baby’s crib.
Start by paying attention to the quality of the mattress and bedding.
Choose hypoallergenic fabrics and fillings that are appropriately sized for the crib.
The duvet should not be too heavy or too large to avoid pressing and restricting the baby’s movements.
In the first few months, it is not recommended to use a pillow; a flat sleeping surface is healthiest for an infant.
Planning to co-sleep with your child for now?
It’s a good idea, provided you prepare adequately.
Ensure that the surface on which the baby will sleep is even and without gaps (such as between the frame and the mattress).
Install side rails (adjustable and easy to assemble and disassemble) and appropriate protectors on the rails to prevent the baby from hitting a hard surface.
If possible, place the child closer to the center of the bed to minimize risks.
If your child shares your bed, adjust the bedding to their needs.
For this time, forego large pillows, heavy duvets, and slippery satin sheets.
Choose bedding made from soft fabrics suitable for a baby’s delicate skin.
Initially, introduce toys with safe shapes that are easy to keep clean and in subdued pastel colors. In the early stages of life, surround your child with gentle colors, as rapidly moving, loud, and colorful toys can overstimulate and hinder a sense of calm.
When choosing furniture, pay attention to your own comfort – you’ll be using the changing table and hastily searching for clean diapers.
Place a dresser with spacious drawers nearby to help you maintain order and always have everything at hand.
Preschooler
Designing a room for a child in the post-infant or preschool age is a significantly greater challenge.
The child is curious about the surrounding world, crawls, walks, runs, and jumps.
Their demands for toys increase, requiring more stimulation, while the surrounding objects must remain safe.
Wardrobes and cabinets should be securely attached to the wall to prevent accidental tipping when the child starts to climb.
For a crawling child, the sharp edges of furniture are also a potential threat, so consider securing them with special protectors.
The same advice applies to additional locks on cabinets throughout the house to prevent the child from accessing cleaning supplies or cutlery.
Arrange the child’s room considering their age and height.
Make it easy for the child to use the furniture in their own space.
Tables and chairs for drawing, toys, and the bed should all be easily accessible, promoting independence.
Many furniture options on the market grow with the child, which is a great option considering how quickly children grow in early childhood.
Toy boxes are definitely more practical than shelves.
While unused toys may look nice neatly arranged on shelves, they will also unnecessarily collect dust.
Encouraging a child to clean up toys is easier when they can simply toss them into a box.
Ensure multi-point lighting in your child’s room.
In addition to the main ceiling light, place an extra lamp on the desk or table in the creative zone (where your child will draw, glue, or learn).
Also, use a night light with warm, gentle light to help the child calm down before bedtime.
At Novisa Development, we primarily build for families, and our homes often feature an additional bedroom designed for a children’s room.
Typically, it is directly adjacent to the main bedroom, so when you choose to place your little one’s crib in the second room, you’ll still have them close by.
Find a home for you and your family at Novisa Development
