Tips to Make Your Home both Beautiful and Kid-Friendly

Have you ever been to a home where it's clear that the kids have taken over the space?

It's obvious that the home has become more of a playground, filled with
toys and bright-colored plastic everywhere. Homes like this often sacrifice style
for durability or stain-resistance. Maybe this is your home? The good news is that
it’s possible to create a home that incorporates the beauty of a stylish home with
the practicality of living with children. Here are a few design tips to help.

• Be Realistic – You may love the look of crisp white sofas and delicate glass
vases, but if you live with kids, opt for more durable choices. Natural fiber
furniture in neutrals hide stains while looking stylish; choose a sofa with
removable cushion covers you can pop in the wash as needed. Display
beautiful wood or stone accent pieces instead of glass, to cut down on
accidental breakage.

• Less is More – Uncrowded rooms allow for the excess energy of fast moving children. Give them room to play. Less toys also means less mess
when they’re all inevitably spread over the house!

• Double Duty Furniture – Look for stylish bins or hidden storage units such
as ottomans where you can quickly dump excess toys when guests pop by.

• Create a Play Station – Carve out a special place for the kids to play, such as
a basement family room or a cozy attic. Keep larger playsets and toys there
and help the kids make it a special place just for them. This may keep some
of the ‘kid clutter’ contained to one area of the home.

• House Rules – Develop some simple rules and then be disciplined about it.
For example, a good house rule is that toys are gathered into storage units
each evening before dinner. Cleaning things up a bit at a time makes it less
overwhelming.

Most of all, strive for a livable home. It’s almost impossible to have a picture perfect home with kids, but by taking a few simple steps, you can merge a kid friendly environment with a beautiful adult home.