Redecorating your home can be an exciting yet daunting task. However, involving your children aged 7 to 12 in the process can turn it into a delightful family project. Not only does this foster creativity and teamwork, but it also provides children with a sense of ownership and pride in their living space.
Understanding your child's vision
Before embarking on your redecoration project, take the time to discuss ideas with your children. Ask them about their favourite colours, themes, and any specific elements they would love to see in their rooms. Encourage them to create a mood board using cuttings from magazines or digital tools like Pinterest. This not only harnesses their creativity but also helps you better understand their preferences, ensuring the final outcome reflects their personalities.
Getting creative with painting
Painting is one of the most hands-on activities in home redecoration, making it an excellent way for children to contribute. Start by allowing them to help choose paint colours. Give them a selection of swatches to choose from, explaining how different shades can change the look and feel of a room. When it's time to paint, assign them simple tasks like painting a base coat or corners under supervision. Remember to lay down protective sheets and dress them in old clothes!
Picking the perfect wallpaper
Wallpaper selection can be an enjoyable activity for children as it involves choosing patterns and designs that will make their rooms truly unique. Visit a wallpaper store or browse online with them, pointing out the different styles available. Allow them to choose a feature wall or even an entire room design. This decision-making process can boost their confidence, as they see their choices come to life. If you're feeling adventurous, consider removable wallpapers that they can help apply, creating a fun, interactive experience.
Encouraging DIY decorations
DIY decorations are a wonderful way to personalise a space while keeping children engaged. Encourage them to create artwork, decorations, or simple crafts to adorn their rooms. You could organise a crafting session where they create their own picture frames, design name plaques, or make decorative bunting. These personal touches will make the room truly theirs, filled with items crafted by their own hands.
Teaching responsibility through organisation
Once the redecorating is complete, involve your children in organising their newly styled space. Teach them the importance of tidiness and how to arrange their belongings effectively. Provide them with storage solutions like bins, baskets, and shelves, and guide them on how to categorise and store different items. This not only instils a sense of responsibility but also helps them appreciate the value of a well-organised space.
Creating lasting memories
Involving children in home redecorating is more than just a project—it's an opportunity to create lasting memories together. Throughout the process, take the time to enjoy each other's company, share stories, and capture the moments with photos or a scrapbook. These memories will serve as a reminder of the fun times spent together, adding sentimental value to the physical transformation of your home.
With their imaginations running wild, children can bring a unique perspective to home decorating. By engaging them in activities like painting and wallpaper selection, you nurture their creativity while teaching valuable lessons about teamwork, responsibility, and self-expression. In the end, both your home and family bonds will be richer for the experience.
