Searching for toddler room ideas? Read on for some awesome decorating tips for creating a space your child will thrive in.
As your toddler’s personality grows, it’s time to switch from a nursery to a toddler room. Now that your little one is more aware, you can have more fun picking things for the bedroom. Embrace new design ideas as your child grows to create a warm and inviting environment. Exploring toddler room ideas helps spark your imagination and create a space that’s just right for your child. For toddlers, it’s all about making the room visually appealing and safe. Include sturdy, secure furniture and soft touches. Storage solutions are essential for toddler rooms due to the large amounts of toys and clothing toddlers have. For little kids, accessible storage and space-efficient furniture are especially important to keep everything organised and within reach. Bean bags can even assist with early childhood development. Adding functional areas where your toddler can play, create, look at books, and relax is also important. Consider how the design can evolve with your toddler into their childhood years. Purchasing furniture that accommodates your child as they grow is a wise investment. Colours that work with different themes make it easier to redecorate. Looking at photo inspiration of real toddler rooms can help you visualise different design possibilities. Explore these tips and ideas for creating a toddler room that your little one will adore.
Introduction to Kids Room Design
Designing a kids' room is an exciting opportunity to create a space where your child’s imagination can soar. Whether you’re working with a small space or a larger area, the right room ideas can make all the difference. A well-thought-out kids' room should be both fun and functional, offering plenty of opportunities for play, creativity, and relaxation. Consider incorporating bunk beds for siblings or sleepovers, and don’t forget about smart storage solutions to keep toys and clothes organised. Even in a small space, you can create a room that feels open and inviting by choosing the right furniture and layout. Throughout this article, you’ll find inspiration and practical tips to help you create a kids' room that grows with your child and sparks their sense of adventure.
Pick a Theme
A theme adds a fun twist to your toddler’s bedroom. It’s an ideal way to work on some of your little one’s favourite things and interests. Themes also help you choose all of the design elements for the bedroom. It’s easier to choose coordinating bedding, window coverings, decorations, and other things to go into the bedroom when you have a theme. You can opt for a classic kids’ bedroom theme, such as zoo animals, woodland creatures, transportation, pirates, the ocean, or fairy tales. Boys may enjoy themes like superheroes or racing stripes, while girls might prefer themes like princesses or fairy tales. Another option is to go with a more general theme, such as geometric shapes, stripes, or letters. You still have a central idea throughout the design, but it’s not an over-the-top theme. The general theme approach also allows the room to grow with your child. It’s easier to update the decor if you go with a general stripe or polka dot theme than it is if you completely stylise the design around an obvious theme. For girls' rooms, pink can be incorporated as a wall colour, furniture finish, or decorative accent, and it can be used in versatile ways to suit different styles. Themes for kids’ rooms can also be inspired by popular culture, like movies and books, adding a personal touch to the space.
Select a Colour Scheme
Now that you have a theme in mind, you can choose a color scheme to go along with it. Some themes naturally lend themselves to certain colors. An ocean theme works well with blues and greens. A woodland theme fits well with brown, green, and other earthy tones. If you already have decorations to go along with the theme, pull colors from those pieces. You might choose a shade of green from the dinosaur bedding as an accent hue. Lighter colors make the space feel brighter and larger. Choosing a lighter neutral hue for the main color gives the room a more versatile look. Incorporate brighter colors in the accents. You might choose furniture in a fun colour, like a purple bean bag chair, or add curtains in a vivid pattern. Wallpaper can also be used to create a statement wall or add personality to the room, with options ranging from playful patterns to subtle textures. Stick to two or three colours in the room so it doesn’t get too overwhelming. If your toddler is old enough to have a favourite colour, see if you can work it into the bedroom design to make it more appealing.
Decide on the Bed
Moving your toddler from the cot to a bed is one of the most exciting parts of the transition. Deciding when to make the move depends largely on your toddler’s readiness. The move typically occurs between 18 months and 3.5 years. But you can wait until your child is ready. You can still update the room to a more toddler-friendly design if you’re still using the cot. Once your little one is ready for the transition, you can update that portion of the room. Picking a new bed for your toddler’s room requires a mix of safety considerations and style. Many parents start with a smaller toddler bed, which uses a cot mattress. These beds are typically low to the ground, allowing your tot to climb in and out safely. The smaller size makes toddlers feel cosier and safer during the transition. You can also move directly to a regular bed if you don’t want to spend money on a toddler bed that won’t get used very long. If you choose a larger bed, choose one that’s low to the ground. Ensure your toddler can get into and out of bed independently. Adding guardrails also provides security for your little one while sleeping.
If you opt for bunk beds, the bottom bunk is ideal for toddlers because it is easily accessible and safe. As your child grows, the bottom bunk can be repurposed into a desk or play area, making it a versatile choice for changing needs.
Choose a Statement Bed
Create a bold statement in your room with a standout bed. Consider choosing a themed design that complements the overall decor. If you’re designing a pirate room, you might pick a bed that’s shaped like a pirate’s ship. A bed designed to look like a house is another option. Think of it as a modified canopy bed with the top portion looking like the room of a house. Many kids’ beds look like adult beds in a smaller version. You might find a canopy bed or a platform bed for kids. Stores like IKEA offer a variety of affordable and stylish kids' beds, including themed and customizable designs, making it easy to find a unique option that fits your child's personality. These options let you create a trendy look in your toddler’s bedroom. It can complement the style of the rest of your rooms if you prefer a cohesive look throughout the home.
Add a Reading Nook
Your toddler's room can encourage learning by incorporating design elements that support their development. Educational design ideas help your little one develop skills and make connections about the world. One way to do that is with a reading nook. Reading with your child helps support brain development, especially in the early years. It also aids in language development, emotional regulation, imagination, and bonding. Setting up a dedicated spot for reading makes it easier for you to share a good book with your toddler. It also encourages your child to explore books for themselves. Using low-hung bookshelves makes books more accessible for toddlers and helps promote reading. Start with book storage to keep a variety of board books and picture books readily available. If you choose a freestanding bookshelf, anchor it to the wall to prevent it from tipping over and potentially injuring your toddler. Include a spot for you and your child to sit and read together. A rocking chair or bean bag chair works well for this. Ensure the reading nook has ample natural or artificial light. Ample lighting allows you to read without experiencing eye strain or headaches.
Incorporate an Art Area
A simple, creative art area in your toddler’s bedroom encourages learning and artistic expression. A toddler-sized table makes a good base for the area. You can also set up a kid-sized easel for drawing and painting. The table can also work for other activities such as playing with toys or building with blocks. Be careful about leaving art supplies in the bedroom. They could become a choking hazard, or they may end up making a big mess when you’re not around to supervise. Don’t forget to include a place to hang up your toddler’s artwork. Frames on the wall and a string with clothespins to clip up the art are options. Hang the artwork display high enough so your toddler can’t reach it and pull it down.
Set Up a Tent
Play tents add a magical feel to a child’s bedroom. They give your little one a retreat for quiet time or for play. Tents are also great for inspiring imaginative play. Your child can pretend to go camping or playhouse with a tent. A similar option is to hang a canopy in the bedroom. Canopies hang from the ceiling and drape down with a dreamy look. A canopy is a fun addition to a reading nook or play area in the bedroom. Avoid putting it over a young toddler’s bed, as young kids may get twisted up in the canopy as they sleep.
For even more fun and playfulness, consider installing an indoor swing. Swings can be a stylish and interactive feature that adds entertainment and visual appeal to the room.
Add an extra magical touch to the tent or canopy with fairy lights. Attach the fairy lights inside the tent to create a starry sky effect. Creating a cozy nook with pillows and blankets encourages a child’s imagination and comfort, making the space even more inviting.
Offer Easily Accessible Storage
Your toddler is starting to explore more and play independently. Make that easier with storage that’s low to the ground and easy for your little one to use. Opt for low cube-style shelves or cubbies that are anchored to the wall, as these work well for accessibility. You can stack large toys directly into the cubbies on the shelving. For smaller items, use soft cloth storage bins that fit into the cubby spaces. Your toddler can slide the bins out of the storage spaces to reach the toys. Hooks attached to the wall at a toddler-friendly height hold lots of items. Use them to hang up dress-up clothes so your child can easily access them. Or hang bags of toys on the hooks so you can store them out of the way when your child isn’t playing with them. Hooks can be used throughout toddler rooms to provide easy access to frequently used items, such as jackets and bags. If your toddler’s bed is high enough, consider placing baskets or tubs underneath it. This provides you with more storage space while still leaving plenty of floor space available for your child to play. Soft-sided baskets can be used to add storage throughout the bedroom. You can fill them with stuffed animals, dress-up clothes, or other toys. When it’s time to clean up the room, have your toddler help grab the toys and dump them into the baskets.
Include Comfortable Seating
Your little one needs a cosy spot to take a load off while relaxing in the bedroom. Kid-sized chairs and soft features on the floor are the perfect way to do that. Are bean bags good for toddlers? They’re soft and squishy so your little one can sink into them. Kids can cuddle up in bean bag chairs to read books, relax, or play. Since they conform to your body, they offer a comfortable spot for all types of activities. Bean bag chairs are also easy to move around to different areas. You can move it from the reading nook to the play area. Or you can carry it out to the living room for family movie night. Kid-sized bean bag chairs let your toddler settle in comfortably and safely. When you follow bean bag safety tips, you can use this seating option in your toddler’s room without worry. Floor pillows add even more comfort to the bean bag seating. A small, child-friendly sofa can also provide a cozy spot for reading or relaxing, making the room even more inviting. Include a mix of soft floor seating options for your toddler.
Add a Rug
A nice area rug can add both comfort and style to your toddler’s room. Choose one that fits the colour scheme and theme for the bedroom. You can also find kids’ rugs that encourage play. An example is an area rug with roads printed on it. Your child can drive toy vehicles on the streets, making the rug a soft floor covering and a play option. A thick, shaggy carpet is also an option for adding a softer touch to the floor. This is a good option if you have hardwood floors in your toddler’s room. It offers some extra padding when your child wants to sit on the floor.
Incorporate Interactive Elements
Keep your toddler engaged and excited to spend time in the room by adding some interactive elements. There are numerous options for keeping your toddler engaged, from a chalkboard wall to activity tables and play kitchens. One idea is to create a chalkboard wall in the room. Chalkboard paint is easy to apply to walls or the back of a closet door. The wall then becomes a large canvas for chalkboard art. Always supervise your toddler with chalk. It’s non-toxic, but it can be a choking hazard. Wooden activity tables are another option. The tables are toddler-height and often have different elements, such as beads that slide along paths. Encourage your child’s cooking skills and imaginative play with a play kitchen. Include play food, but choose the pieces carefully. Ensure all pieces are large enough to prevent a choking hazard.
Decorating a Small Space
When decorating a small kid's room, every inch counts. Start by embracing smart storage options, such as shelves, bins, and baskets, to keep toys, books, and clothes neatly organised and off the floor. Opting for white walls or other light colours can make the room feel larger and brighter, creating a sense of openness even in a compact space. Consider space-saving furniture such as a bunk bed or loft bed, which frees up valuable floor space for play and activities. Wall-mounted shelves are perfect for displaying favourite toys or books without taking up extra room, while a storage ottoman can double as seating and a place to stash extra stuff. By making thoughtful choices, you can create a kids' room that feels spacious, organised, and full of personality, no matter the size.
Room Ideas for Shared Spaces
Shared kids' rooms can be both practical and fun with the right approach. Bunk beds are a classic solution, allowing two children to sleep comfortably while maximising floor space for play and storage. For added privacy, consider using a room divider or a curtain to create separate zones for each child, allowing them to have their own private space to decorate and enjoy. Smart storage is essential in shared spaces—think shelves, bins, and under-bed drawers to keep toys and clothes tidy and accessible. A neutral colour palette, such as soft beige or grey, can help create a calm and cohesive look that appeals to a wide range of people. For example, a storage bed with built-in drawers is perfect for keeping essentials organised, while a desk with a hutch can provide each child with their workspace. With a bit of creativity, you can design a shared kids' room that feels harmonious and inviting for all.
DIY Projects and Decor
Adding DIY projects and personalised decor is a great way to make a kid's room truly unique. Try crafting a custom headboard from an old door or a piece of reclaimed wood for a one-of-a-kind look. Handmade curtains or bedding in bright, playful fabrics can bring a burst of colour and fun to the space. Wall decals and stickers are an easy way to add personality—choose themes or shapes your child loves, and let them help with the placement for an extra special touch. Chalkboard paint is another creative option, turning a section of wall or even a door into a canvas for your child’s drawings and doodles. For example, a vintage window frame can become a charming piece of wall art, or a macrame wall hanging can add a cozy, bohemian vibe. These DIY ideas not only add style but also invite your child to be part of the decorating process, making the room feel even more like their own.
Explore Toddler Room Ideas
With numerous toddler room ideas available, it’s possible to find an option that suits your budget and style. Starting with a theme and selecting toddler-friendly furnishings that fit the theme helps you create a space your child will love. Shop our kids’ bean bags to find the perfect seating solutions for your toddler’s room. With a range of colours, patterns, and styles, there’s something to fit any toddler's room decor. You may even want to splurge on a special piece of decor or furniture to make the room extra special.
As your child grows, you can adjust the room's pace by updating the decor and furniture to match their evolving interests.
Conclusion and Final Room Ideas
Creating a toddler room or kids' room that your child will love is all about blending creativity, practicality, and a sense of fun. From smart storage solutions and space-saving bunk beds to personalised DIY decor and cozy reading nooks, there are endless ways to make your child’s bedroom both functional and inspiring. Remember to choose elements that can grow with your child, and don’t be afraid to let their personality shine through in the decor. Whether you’re working with a small space or designing a shared room, these room ideas will help you create a space that feels inviting, organised, and full of imagination. Start with a few of these tips, and you’ll find it easier than ever to design a gorgeous, practical, and fun kids' room your little one will love for years to come.
