A Room of Their Own - Decorating for Kids | Ernest Homes
Originally published 2014. Updated 2025 to reflect current decorating insights. All information has been refreshed for clarity.
You probably think of your kids as smaller versions of yourself — most parents do! But children have their own creative minds, unique needs, and big imaginations. When you’re designing a child’s bedroom, kid-friendly decorating ideas and smart storage solutions can make their space feel fun, functional, and truly their own.
Kid-Friendly Bedroom Decorating Ideas
To help you create a fun, functional, and kid-approved room, consider these smart decorating tips:
- Glow-in-the-Dark Magic
Bedtime becomes an adventure when you add glow-in-the-dark paint accents. Most home and craft stores carry glow paint or additives that make stars, shapes, or borders light up when the lights turn off.
- Layered Lighting Options
Kids often feel uneasy in the dark, so multiple lighting choices are important. Include night-lights, soft bedside lamps, and reachable light switches. If the switch is too high, place a sturdy stepstool underneath so they can confidently turn lights on and off.
- Smart Storage Solutions
When storage is too tall, too heavy, or too complicated, kids avoid using it. Make cleanup easier by choosing lightweight bins, low shelves, and accessible drawers. For stuffed animals, try a hanging shoe organizer — items stay visible, “breathe,” and look adorable peeking out. A fabric wall quilt with pockets is another great option.
- Fun, Kid-Created Furniture
Save money and spark creativity by upcycling inexpensive furniture from thrift stores or online marketplaces. Sand it down and let your child help paint it with patterns, handprints, or polka dots. Since it’s affordable, you can refresh it as often as your child grows and changes.
- Removable Wall Art
Peel-and-stick wall decals let kids personalize their space without long-term commitment. Dinosaurs, princesses, superheroes — anything goes! You can also add a chalkboard-paint section on the wall for artistic expression that wipes clean in seconds.
- Cork Boards & Magnet Walls
Kids love to display artwork and memories. Install a cork board or hang a galvanized steel sheet to create a fun magnetic display area using colorful magnets.
- Let Them Choose the Colors
Letting your child pick the room’s main color (yes, even bright pink or fire-engine red!) gives them ownership. Paint is easy — and affordable — to change, but your child’s excitement will last for years.
- Make the Room Personal
Create customized décor using photo services like Snapfish. Turn your child’s artwork or pictures into posters, canvas prints, or wall art. It makes the room feel extra special and uniquely theirs.
Create a Kid-Friendly Bedroom in Your New Ernest Home
The Design Studio at Ernest Homes can help you design a fun, functional bedroom your child will love in your new home. For expert guidance, call us at (912) 756-4135 or send us an email.
Looking for a new home where you can create the perfect kids’ space? Explore our communities and floor plans at ErnestHomes.com.
