Believe it or not, that tiny and darling newborn you brought home from the hospital is now a running, jumping, happy 3-year-old with a zest for life that just won’t quit.
While you have fond memories of painting, decorating, and furnishing the nursery in anticipation of your once-little one’s arrival, your kiddo is well past the baby stage and definitely needs a room makeover.
Looking to update your child’s nursery into a big kid room that your son or daughter will love — and won’t break your budget? Then check out the following ideas:
1. Choose a Theme That Will Grow with Your Child
When updating the nursery into a preschooler bedroom, try to choose a theme that will grow with your child. In particular, resist the urge to spend a lot of money on bedding, wallpaper borders, and accessories that are decorated with your kiddo’s current favorite TV character.
After all, young children are notorious for their quick changes in tastes — and the last thing you want to do is shell out big bucks for a Paw Patrol-themed room, only to be informed by your 3-year-old that he no longer likes the show and instead wants a Peppa Pig room.
Instead, go with a theme that reflects something your kiddo likes but isn’t as brand-specific. For instance, if your child would gladly go to the zoo any day of the week, opt for cute and appealing animal wall prints that he or she will enjoy now and in the years to come. Whatever you decide, select some type of animal wall art, including colorful prints of giraffes, zebras, and elephants, that’s appealing, affordable, and timeless in any 3-year-old’s room.
2. Include a Fun and Cozy Place to Sit
Just like us adults, young children enjoy their personal space and adore cozy places to sit and hang out. That includes areas of the home ripe with pillows and blankets to create a small fort. For inspiration, you can opt for a teepee or small tent with cushions and an extra-fluffy throw rug, or simply place a bean bag chair with some throw pillows in the corner of your son or daughter’s bedroom.
To encourage your child to use the comfy little nook, ask him or her to help design it, and bring your kiddo along on the shopping trip to pick out the items. Chances are good you’ll find your little one snoozing in the cozy spot from time to time, with a stack of books on one side and a half-full sippy cup of apple juice on the other.
3. Know That Less Can Be More
To keep your son or daughter’s room redo as budget-friendly as possible, while still making it look like a big girl or big boy space, experts suggest focusing on relatively small changes that will make a big impact. For instance, a fresh coat of paint on the walls with a coordinating color on the closet door, along with the aforementioned wall art and a new bed, will go a long way in making the room look different.
Moreover, the bookcase that held your newborn’s first books can still be used to hold preschool books and small bins for toys, and the dresser can also stay and be used to hold those 3T- and 4T-sized duds. When choosing a bed, opt for one meant for a toddler but that still includes the mattress from his or her crib. Or, you can choose a twin-sized bed that will likely be put to better use. Just be sure to add safety rails for the time being.
Have Fun with Your Kiddo’s Room Redo!
It may be hard to wrap your head around the notion that your kiddo has already outgrown his or her nursery. But by choosing a relatively timeless theme, adding a comfy area to hang out, and making impactful changes that are friendly on the budget, your child — and you, too — will be sure to enjoy the room redecorating process and finished result.
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