Now we’re all spending more time at home, we need our houses to serve a multitude of purposes. Not only are they somewhere for us to eat and sleep, we now need to keep our kids entertained for hours on end.
Previously, we’d have spent the weekends taking them to parties or play centres. But now our options are much more limited. Of course, we can still take them for walks, but walks can only last so long… Here are five ideas for a child-friendly living room.
Pouf it up
If your children spend a lot of time in your sitting room you want them to feel comfy, relaxed and like it’s their space as much as yours. Floor cushions and bean bag chairs are the ideal solution. If your kids are anything like mine, then you’ll be used to them throwing your best cushions on the floor anyway. So why not get them their own! If you want to keep things on-trend but child height, then a pouf can serve as a seat for them whilst also making your room look stylish.
Get crafty
An arts and crafts trolley is another great addition. Your kids can have everything to hand when they decide to get creative, but you can also easily hide it again in the evening. It means everyone can sit together whilst doing their own thing and once they’re finished you can even frame their masterpieces for the wall. They’ll be so proud to see their work displayed it will encourage them to do more!
Teepee it up
In our house, my boys are constantly either playing hide and seek or making dens. If you want to give them somewhere permanent to hang out that’s away from prying adults, a teepee is perfect. They can fill it with their favourite soft toys, blankets and books. One great thing for you is that they come in a variety of neutral tones, so you can tie it in with your own décor.
Play mats can come in handy
If you want your kids to feel like they can spread out their toys without getting in the way, why not give them their own rug or play mat to amuse themselves on. Foam versions are especially popular and can even be educational if you get one featuring the alphabet or numbers. Again, if you don’t want the colours to clash with your walls, there are muted versions available.
Or go all out
If you really want to take things up a notch then consider going all out and ask an expert to safely install an indoor swing, slide, basketball hoop. If you’re feeling extra adventurous a rock-climbing wall (imagine!). They’ll never want to leave the house again!