Painted Floors From Better Homes And Gardens Magazine

Our children are our most precious possessions, and making sure they are safe when tucked in at night or playing in their room during the day should be a parent's top priority. Safety comes in many forms, from protecting against dangers outside [...]]]>

Painted Floors From Better Homes And Gardens Magazine

Our children are our most precious possessions, and making sure they are safe when tucked in at night or playing in their room during the day should be a parent's top priority. Safety comes in many forms, from protecting against dangers outside the home, unexpected dangers within (such as fires or floods), and the general dangers that come from small fragile people roughhousing and exploring their environment.

Protecting From Dangers Outside

The idea of a home security system may seem like a luxury that you can't afford, but they are actually more reasonable than you might think. While some advanced systems can be prohibitively expensive, if you aren't looking for sweeping lasers to protect a priceless art collection, you can likely afford it. The monthly fee for most systems is actually far less than you pay out for your cell phone bill.

These systems such as those with an Augusta GA home automation system company, can give an amazing peace of mind. Not only are thieves scared off by visible cameras (or even the signs stating the home is under surveillance), door and window sensors set off an alarm if someone is attempting to open them or testing their lock strength when the system is armed. These systems are also family intuitive, and can give the option of turning off motion sensor alarms completely, or setting them in a way that your family pooch doesn't trigger a call to the police every time he wanders when you aren't home.

Protecting From Interior Dangers

You should always make sure that smoke detectors are placed outside your children's rooms and are in good working order. Having accessible fire extinguishers on every level of your house is also recommended, as is some form of fire escape ladder outside of a window on your upper levels.

In addition to that, you can buy sensors and monitors to place in your children's rooms (there are also some amazing new apps as well) that track the room's temperature, turn off lights, or allow you to see what is happening at home when at work.

Protecting Kids from Themselves

Adult furniture is rife with sharp corners, hard edges, and top-heavy materials that can send bookshelves and dressers crashing down on your little ones. There are some great children's furniture and outlet designers that build safety features into their products so that parents don't have to worry about tipping, durability, or loose screws being swallowed by inquisitive mouths.

Animal Mural- minakaniwalls.com

You have experienced the joy that your expecting a newborn little angel. This might be your first child or you might have had a couple but it is always exciting. The thought of a new little one coming is some of the best news anyone [...]]]>

Animal Mural- minakaniwalls.com

You have experienced the joy that your expecting a newborn little angel. This might be your first child or you might have had a couple but it is always exciting. The thought of a new little one coming is some of the best news anyone can get. There might be many problems that arise like money, supplies and space. You might be stressing over everything especially if it is your first child. You are going to want to make sure that your house is baby proof and that everything will go fine. You might be stressing out about what to do with the baby room and where to put everything. Here are some helpful reminders that might just ease the stress and that will help you transform that spare bedroom into a baby room and enjoy the waiting period for that new baby to come.

Painting The Room

This can be a frustrating part and is the main point of a babys room. What color and theme do you want the childs room to be. It will help if you know what sex the baby will be and might help you decide what color to go if you want Pink or Blue. If your having a girl then you can think about princess themes or Disney themes. If its a boy then you can do something else like Mario or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. There are plenty of themes you can choose from and plenty of vinyls online to help paint the room.

Make Everything Safe.

Check to make sure that all those sharp corners are padded with something soft for when he or she starts walking they wont get hurt by their dresser or bed. Also make sure all the plugs have covers on them so your child does not get curious as to what they are and get shocked. You might have to move all the things from your spare bedroom somewhere else. If you dont have any extra room in your house you can look into getting some Palm Springs CA self storage. You can visit this website to see if there are any storage buildings in your area. This can really help you store all those items until you find room somewhere else or move into a bigger home.

There are many things that you can do to get ready for a new baby. Just make sure not to stress out about it too much and dont forget to cherish this moment. Have fun deciding on themes for your kids rooms and their names. Remember these are going to be your little angels. Make sure you prepare smart, safe and meaningful for their arrival.

Playing with asymmetric cubes in different shades of blue, the architect Guilherme Torres has created a fun and unusual dorm, now adapted to when the baby grow. To complete the space cool, stickers on the walls and a cot on wheels, which resembles a giant cart.

 Guilherme Torres

Geometrical Wall Patterns-100layercake.com

Henry's Vintage Baby Nursery- laybabylay.com

Nursery to Toddler Room... aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.com

Whimsical Baby Room With Modern Furniture-thebooandtheboy.com

DIY Balloon Mobile- Pinterest

Paper the back of shelves with wrapping paper, wallpaper, magazines...

aprillaprill.se

Kids Art Work -ababyspace.weebly.com

Knitting-rouvajonesinkotona.blogspot.fr

Kids Toy Collections- plumlife.typepad.com

Beautiful Burl Wood Art Deco Furniture In A Baby's Room

Gray and Yellow Nursery with Striped Walls

Mid Century Retro Dresser- urbanoutfitters.co.uk

Vintage Nursery Poster- sodarling.blogspot.co.uk

Architect Diego Revollo used yellow, not only in small details, but at points of great prominence, as stamped on the ceiling and lighted bedside.

Geometrical Wall Patterns- jennyshus.webblogg.se

Recliner Makeover - HOW TO- rockpaperscissorgraphics.ca

Rock Star Duchess Nursery by Sharon Taylor on Project Nursery

Vintage Inspired Playroom Circus Wall Paper-milkmagazine.net

Yarn Chandelier Tutorial- hostessblog.com

Colorful Kids Rooms- mamamekko.blogspot.com

DIY Doily Lamp With Detailed Instructions- emmmylizzzy.blogspot.com

Change around an existing bookshelf by building a custom door front. 

Buy a larger piece of wood, cut knotches in the top- Picture from here

Orange Wall With Storage Cubbies- plentyofcolour.com

Red Kids Room With Carpet Squares- 3.bp.blogspot.com

Znak Mosaic Wallpaper - decopeques.com

Beautiful Knitting- cocorosetextiles.blogspot.com.au

Transform Ikea Furniture -Pinterest

Most kids are born active. Once they can stand on their own two feet and have a grip of their skills, it will be hard for you to let them sit still in one corner. They will be running around the house or finding their way out to the backyard for more freedom or [...]]]>

Most kids are born active. Once they can stand on their own two feet and have a grip of their skills, it will be hard for you to let them sit still in one corner. They will be running around the house or finding their way out to the backyard for more freedom or space. As they grow, they will slowly learn about different kinds of sports and one or two will win their interest, but what if your child has not given watersports a show of interest? How would you bring them to try their hands at swimming or surfing?

First of all, it needs to be clear that the reason you want your child to pursue watersports is because of the benefits they will get from it and not because you are passing on some of your frustrations in the hope of realizing your dreams through your kids. Watersports are great for kids because it helps them develop a healthy body. Surfing, for instance, is a full body workout which not only tones muscles and build strong bones, but also aids in having a healthy heart. Watersports are done outdoors, by the beach or in the pool, and if you schedule your activity right, you can have the healthy benefits of the sun and the clear fresh air. It will help you to have strong lungs, which is great for your respiratory system. With these benefits, it will be a waste if your kids do not enjoy water sports, when it can be healthy and fun at the same time. To give them some inspiration, here are some things parents can do to encourage their kids to dip their toes in the water.

Introduce them to water sports. This is essentially the first step. How can kids build their interest on the sports when they have not been near a pool or a beach? Show them the beauty of the sea while they are still young by taking them to watersports or surfing shows during weekends.

Give them lessons. Some kids will not dare to get near the pool if they had once experienced almost drowning when they were young. The incident can build a phobia within them, which is why they would rather go to the gym. Help them face their fears by giving them lessons. This will give them the confidence to do adventurous activities in the water.

Be involved and show full support. Kids with active parents are more likely to be active too. It will be hard to encourage kids to surf or sail this weekend if you are staying home to sit in front of the television all day. Be with your kids and cheer them on as they break their personal records. Take time to bring them to the pool for their practice after school or set a schedule where you and the whole family can go to the beach and try out a new water sport.

Reward your kids. Simple tokens, like a new set of goggles or a huge lunch after a morning race are enough to make your kids feel that you are proud of them. Kids often are driven by the need to make their parents proud of them, so do not disappoint. Unrecognized feats will only make kids lose interest on whatever form of sports they are involved in.

Make the activity fun. The opposite of unsupportive parents are those who push their kids too much. Water sports should be fun, not a chore or an obligation. Do not scold your kids just because they did not finish the race at the time you have set. Teach them to accept defeat and help them improve their skills.

A nautical theme bedroom is a great idea for any child who loves the sea, sailing, speed boating, or swimming. Decorating their room is a great way of incorporating those loves into their every day lifestyle. Red, white and blue has been standard colors for nautical designs, whether it be for Yacht or swimming clubs.There are many nautical accessories such as curtains, area rugs and wall art that would work well with this theme. Going with solid color bedding in shades of blue or white, allows you to focus on more of the detail of the room. Subtle blue and white stripe patterns work well for wallpaper, curtains and bedding.

Nautical Theme Bedroom Ideas:

1. Collect Posters or Prints - For an older kids room, consider collecting old photos of lighthouses and boats. Images can be ordered from Amazon in large scale posters, and purchased framed. For a budget concious room, consider buying rectangular frames from your local Dollar Tree, spray paint them gold or white, and then take clippings from magazines or photocopy nautical theme material from books from your library, and frame them. Do a grouping of 9 prints for the wall. Consider blowing up a large sailing map at your local office photocopy store, which you can cut out into 9 rectangles to frame.

2. Incorporate Nautical Accessories- Real models of lighthouses and sailboats would look spectacular in an older boys room. Collect sailor flags and frame them. Mount anchors and oars, and real boat lifesavers on the wall. Invest in a wood captain's wheels, and brass nautical clocks for that teenage boy. A young boy may enjoy fish netting to hold his toys. Wooden trunks is a piece of furniture you can never go wrong with. Stack them tall to store your boys toys, or collectables. Invest in a great brass compass and telescope for him.

3. Invest in Campaign Furniture.Campaign furniture was used by the British army during the late 1700's through the  early 1900's in military campaigns through Burma and India. As a prideful symbol of glory of their newly claimed empire, the high ranking officers would set up tent life just as they would extravagantley decorate their homes. They brought with them knock down furniture which could be easily transported by ship, which broke down to fit in tight spaces, and then could be brought with them on the battle front.  Buy Vintage Campaign furniture here

Make Your Own Campaign Pieces From The Ikea Hack Line

Author Bio: Blogger who researches and talks about the benefits of kids participating in watersports for Lunasurf  

Maritime Themed Boys Roooms- Campaign Furniture By Caroti Furniture

If you like the sea, yachts and want them to be part of your home design then furniture by Caroti could become an excellent choice for you.  For kids there are available as single beds as ergonomic bunk beds. All of them are decorated by various sea-themed items. For example, you could find a great bed with integrated ship wheel on photos below. This bed could be accompanied by other interesting furniture and could help you to organize an awesome bedroom for boys. . More information about all this sea-themed furniture you could find on Caroti site.

English Campaign Table in Mahogany circa 1800, Available from; www.foleyandcoxhome.com

Maritime Themed Boys Roooms- Campaign Furniture By Caroti Furniture

A Nautical Rope Mirror for those nautical themed boy’s rooms. Pottery Barn

Lacquered Campaign Desk Orange LA,

Pottery Barn

In actress Jennifer Creel’s Manhattan apartment, early-20th-century signal flags and lighthouse-patterned wallpaper by Carleton V make her son’s room fit for a captain. Creel’s sister, Suzanne Coleman Bancroft, designed the home.

Buy Posters of Yacht Club Flags

Maritime Themed Boys Roooms- Campaign Furniture By Caroti Furniture

 Anthropologie worked with South African furniture makers, Melville and Moon, to recreate the classic foldable, adaptable hardwood Roorkhee chair but then had the local Pretoria textile company, Design Team, upholster it in a punchy pink African cameo pattern for a truly fresh look.

Nautical Kids Bedroom Design by Mariani

A room decorated around the nautical sports.  Wooden boxes,
brass navigational aides (antique or reproduction), a map chest, a
telescope and art.

Boat Bed From Pottery Barn

Maritime Themed Boys Roooms- Campaign Furniture By Caroti Furniture

Monogrammed slip covered headboard + campaign dresser + herringbone rug

A Monogrammed slip covered headboard updates outdated headboards, and giving it more of a personalized touch. 

Campaign dressers are always a great choice for kids rooms because they work for teen and adult rooms as well.  The furniture is classy and doesn't date. 

Maritime Themed Boys Roooms- Campaign Furniture By Caroti Furniture

Maritime Themed Boys Roooms- Campaign Furniture By Caroti Furniture

Designer Jay Jeffers

Nautical Inspired Boys Bedroom For Two- The stripes on the wall add to the masculinity, as the walls look like a man’s dress shirt.

An older child’s version of a nautical room by emphasising the blue to a blue-black.

Tommaso Ziffer

Campaign Dresser From Lonny Magazine

Campaign Desk From Modern Haus

Daughter Violette Grey's Bedroom

Poppy and Violette's Room is still one of the most talked about kids rooms. The Vogue contributing editor Miranda Brooks's Home was featured in Vogue, and the pictures are still being circulated around various popular blogs.  Miranda and her husband, Bastien Halard, and their two daughters, Poppy, and Violette, moved from the gray [...]]]>

Daughter Violette Grey's Bedroom

Poppy and Violette's Room is still one of the most talked about kids rooms. The Vogue contributing editor Miranda Brooks's Home was featured in Vogue, and the pictures are still being circulated around various popular blogs.  Miranda and her husband, Bastien Halard, and their two daughters, Poppy, and Violette, moved from the gray Manhattan city life to a country style row house in Brooklyn.  The home is lived in, comfortable and offers an atmosphere which relaxation and creativity flourishes.

The first floor of the house has a French touch with white oak flooring inspired by the parquet floors of typical Parisian apartments.  The middle floor was decorated around the English styles with hand-printed wallpaper in the girls’ rooms, and an assortments of butterflies, birds for their daughters.  The girls’ bedrooms open with sliding doors onto a playroom which they hang much of their colorful artwork.  The top floor sets off a completely different vibe, one that would evoke New York in a way, which gives the couple the professionalism that they left in the city.

Miranda picked out the color palette for the home from Papers and Paints in London. The master bedroom wall was covered in custom de Gournay Tree of Life wallpaper.  Detailed wallpaper is also seen in the girls rooms, where antique wood toys function of works of art themselves while at the same time functional to play with.

Here are three ways you can get Poppy and Violette's bedroom look.....

1.  Invest In Nicer Furniture- We see in one of the girls room a vintage Venetian Italian white painted table.  The table alone makes this room so much nicer. Vintage Florentine furniture is a dream to decorate with.  You can collect anything from tole trays which can be mounted on the wall, to nesting tables which can be painted a hot pink, turquoise, or any color.  The detail is sensational, and will kick it up a knotch in your girls bedroom.

We see vintage iron bed-frames updated with paint.  In one room a brighter blue paint color is chosen for the iron bed-frame, while white acts as neutral.  Victorian furniture also has a lot of detail making it attractive pieces to paint.  Consider painting the more ornate areas of the bed in gold, or white, while the plainer parts in a bright rich color.  This approach will make any piece of furniture stand out.

The Tate Baby House  c.1760

2.  Decorate With Vintage Toys- Antique wood furniture can be painted, and roughed up unlike plastic.  Greenleaf Doll Houses come in kits which you can set up, and paint.  Consider buying a table which matches the dimensions of the house which then can be painted to match your child's room.  A vintage nightstand from ebay or craigslist might be a perfect match for a dollhouse. Customize it with paint which stands out from the room.  For example if your child's room is painted in mint, consider painting the dollhouse and table a canary yellow.  Or, work with the existing color scheme.  If the walls are a French blue, consider painting the dollhouse a cobalt blue.

3.  Splurge On Wallpaper

Wallpaper can add a lot of interest in a room.  Smaller sized rooms are great candidates for wallpaper, as excessive furniture is just not possible.  Patterns pack in a lot of punch, which means the remaining furniture doesn't have to hold all the interest.  Pick out a pattern which is calm, while at the same time, works with the colors of your liking.  Turquoise, lavender, primrose yellow, baby pink, baby blue, jade green, peach, apricot, salmon pink are all excellent choices allowing you to add more vibrant painted furniture in the room.

Boulder Display Unit Tall Sold By:CoucouManou

If you don't have the right storage options to keep your child's toys organized, this can soon turn into an area of tension between you and your toddler. Walking in a toy-strewn room is dangerous for you and your child, as it's easy to slip [...]]]>

Boulder Display Unit Tall Sold By:CoucouManou

If you don't have the right storage options to keep your child's toys organized, this can soon turn into an area of tension between you and your toddler. Walking in a toy-strewn room is dangerous for you and your child, as it's easy to slip and fall on a stray stuffed animal or toy car. Make your child a part of the solution with kid-friendly shelves that keep toys contained yet accessible.

Planning

Get buy-in from your wee one by talking about the project together. You may have luck pitching this to kids who want to do everything for themselves as one more thing they can do without parental help. Together, talk about the shape, color and design of shelves. Does she want something in purple because it's her favorite color? Does she want large cubbies like those at preschool or flat reading shelves perfect for storing books and electronics?

Preparing

Once you have an idea of the type of shelves she wants, browse storage blogs, DIY blogs and magazines for free or inexpensive plans. You don't have to be a pro to build your own shelves. All you need are some basic　woodworking tools, raw materials and finishing materials.

Before you begin, carefully measure the space where you'll build the shelf. Sketch out your design, including dimensions, on graph paper or refer to the plans you found. Decide whether you'll build the shelves on site or put them together in the basement or garage to have more work room.

Essential Supplies

Your plans will suggest a list of supplies for you, but in general, expect to have on hand the following supplies:

·Measuring tape

·Spirit level

·Circular saw or hand saw

·Sandpaper

·Wood glue

·Cordless drill and screwdriver bits

·Hammer and assorted nails

·Paint or stain to finish the shelves

·Paintbrushes or rags to apply the stain

·Protective eyewear

·Work gloves

Take a quick trip to the hardware store to put together the basics. You may prefer to ask an employee to cut the wood to the right length at the hardware store. Not only does this make transportation easier, but it's useful if you don't have the right kind of saw at home.

Once you've got everything you need, build those shelves. Refer to your plans for the fine details.

Finishing Touches

While you can hang plain wood shelves, they'll look unfinished. Once you've finished putting the shelves together, sand any rough edges using sandpaper. This is an absolute must as you do not want to be pulling wood splinters out of tiny fingers. When the wood feels smooth, it's finished.

Now you may stain or paint the shelves. If your child is old enough, she may enjoy being your helper for this project since they're going to be her new toy shelves. Have her help you apply the paint or stain, or pick out the right color. When the finish dries, it's time for the final stage: Mounting your shelves. Using your level as a guide, make pencil marks where you plan to hang the shelves. Then use brackets appropriate to the task and hang the brackets using a cordless drill.

If you've opted for standalone shelves that rest on the floor, you're done! Simply place your shelves on the floor of your child's room and fill them with toys.

The right shelves will make her feel special and help reduce clutter from toys and books. In just one weekend, you can build your own shelves, getting custom design and quality at a very low price.

Lindsey Harper Mac is an Indianapolis native with a love for decorating. In her spare time, she blogs on behalf of Sears and other brands she enjoys.

(Note, it is important to know what you are doing with a saw.  Please get help if you are planning to use heavy equipment without experience.  We don't take any responsibility with accidents)

Charming Red Scalloped Bunk Beds- Get Some Ideas For Custom Bookcases

Sophie Brown Homes and Interiors Photographs

Red Spindle Bookcase in Jenny Lind Collection / Land of Nod

Tall Cantilevered Bookshelf $250

Italy. Beech and multicolor Formica shelving unit. 1950s.

These limited edition shelving units from designer Ryan Frank  ryanfrank.net are so eye catching.

 I love the bright pop of color on the inside and how it's possible to buy a few and group them into any design you like.

Roderick Vos www.roderickvos.com/

Custom Wall Shelves For Toys
 

Apartment in Recife

TopicTalk Conversation Card Game -Toys for Kids

Check out Super Duper Publications Games

I learned early on when my children were young that sitting in the pediatrician’s office waiting was not a fun time. You often see mothers or dads sitting there with blank looks while their children climb [...]]]>

TopicTalk Conversation Card Game -Toys for Kids

Check out Super Duper Publications Games

I learned early on when my children were young that sitting in the pediatrician’s office waiting was not a fun time. You often see mothers or dads sitting there with blank looks while their children climb on them and everything else. Isn’t it strange how children can be sick but suddenly the child acts as if he/she has never been sick a day in their lives when they hit the lobby of the doctor’s office? I decided early on that we were going to try something different on our periodical visits to the doctor.

First of all we know that children have a short attention span and even though we as parents are always working to get them to sit still we sometimes need to get more creative. In almost every doctor’s office there are some kind of toys and a television. But more often than not the television is not on or on the fritz or our child is simply not interested. Then there are the toys and that is a whole other story. Okay, there is one of two scenarios at play here. Your child is not sick and you are there for a regular checkup or your child has something you can not treat at home and it is probably contagious. Either way the community toys are not a good idea. I have often wondered if they are trying to drum up more business by passing the sickness around in greater numbers by putting these toys out there. I suppose they feel obligated to entertain the children but isn’t there another way?

My idea is probably really expensive for the doctor but wouldn’t it be more practical to do away with the waiting room all together and just have more treatment rooms? Have toys in each room that are easily disinfected after each child leaves and when people get there just usher them to their room to wait? The waiting room of a pediatrician’s office is one of the scariest places I know. So over the years I have had to get really creative and I will share some of those ideas with you that are just starting out on the journey.

1. Stay Outside – My number one rule for pediatrician visits was eventually not to stay in the waiting room at all. I would actually ask them if I could wait in an empty room if my child was really sick or I would sign in and let them know to come get me in the hall outside of the office. You may not have a hall but that was my option. I would always bring a ball or small toy cars for my children to play with, something we could carry easily in my purse or baby bag. We would sit in the hall either on the benches that were furnished by the elevators or just on the floor. I came right out and told them that my children were contagious or that my children were well and I would not be subjecting either party to the illness. How could they argue?

All About You, All About Me Fun Deck

TopicTalk Conversation Card Game - Toy for Kids

Difficult Situations Fun Deck Cards - Learning Toy for Kids

What Would You Do At School If... Learning Toy for Kids

2. Games to play once you get to your room – We made up different kinds of games when we got to the room itself. My son loved to play find the penny. I would dig out a penny and have him hide his eyes and I would hide it somewhere around where I was sitting. I would tell him if he was cold, warm, or hot. He could play this game for quite a while before getting bored.

3. Bring their favorite books or magazines – Even though they offered books in the doctor’s office I did not let my children partake. I tried to bring our own books and magazines to read with them. My daughter loved to read and my son loved the I Spy books, Where’s Waldo, and the Highlight Magazine with the hidden pictures. That would keep them busy for quite awhile as well.

4. Tongue Depressors – They always have a supply of tongue depressors on hand in the treatment rooms and our doctor did not mind us using a couple while we were waiting. I would tear off a couple of pieces of paper from a notebook out of my purse and wad them up and the kids would use the tongue depressors to catapult their paper and see whose would go the farthest. Or many times they have cotton balls available that we would use to catapult! Note: We would always clean up our messes when we were done.

Original Graphic CreditUnknown

5. Rubber Gloves – Here is another fun product that is always available in the treatment room. You probably want to make sure it is okay with your doctor or nurse before you do this but ours assured us it was just fine. The kids would each get one and try blowing them up or if they were too young I would blow them up for them. They would use them like those rubber fingers and sort of have a sword fight or if I only had the one child we would sometimes fill them with water and poke a tiny pin hole in a finger and pretend we were milking a cow. This would have to be done over the sink!

6. Puzzles – Sometimes I would bring smaller puzzles in my purse for them to put together or those little puzzles you get at the dollar store where you have to get the little metal ball into a certain area to win. Another one they loved from the dollar store was the face with the metal shavings and the magnet. They could sit for quite some time creating beards and mustaches on that funny looking character.

Kids' artwork photographed & turned into mini art pieces on a grid.  Change out the pictures overtime.  Get your kids to draw new pictures for the board as you are out and about on errands.

Trace Colored or White Patterns At Appointments for Kids to assemble into art later at home

7. Simon Says – The kids liked to play Simon Says and being shut off in a small room it was easy to keep them in one place to play. I particularly liked when Simon said to stand perfectly still for at least a minute! Don’t you love it when you get to come up with it instead of Simon?

8. I Spy – Both my children loved to play a version of I Spy. Like “I see something that is yellow, what is it?” Hopefully your room has a big window because there is not a whole lot to spy in a small treatment room.

9. Coloring Books – Bring your own coloring books and crayons if your child likes to color. Or just pull out a notebook and pen or pencil from your purse and let them draw or play a version of Pictionary. You draw or let them draw and the other one guess what it is. One of my children likes to do this, the other not so much.

10. Handheld games – If your child is old enough to play a handheld game this is always a nice pastime for them and sometimes for you. Sometimes you just want to sit and be still for awhile and this is a good way to keep them still so you can get a minute of peace.

11. Toy soldiers or plastic animals – My daughter had a cloth barn filled with farm animals that she pretty much liked to take everywhere with her and play with. She also loved her little ponies. My son liked army men, toy cars, and yo-yos. He had a yo-yo that lit up and I would let him bring it along to practice his skills while we were in the treatment room.

These are just a few of the ways I used with my children when we had to wait at the doctor’s office or other places. I know it is hard to get little ones to sit still when there is nothing to do, but hopefully I have given you some ideas for entertaining them quietly.

Author Bio:

Jason Miner plays a vital role for www.blogcarnival.com.  He is an expert in writing topics of different categories.  He is helping the carnival team to grow & working on making this an even better place for bloggers.

Here are some inexpensive ideas for home games and things to keep them busy:

Great for an indoor activity - underneath a kitchen table is a waste of space, it can be made into a resourceful area for your kids play! Table cloth for 6-8 seater table New neutral colours for boys and girls Easy to wash and iron (no plastic windows anymore) Easy to pack up and store in a cupboard “As a parent, my motivation is to encourage and inspire other parents ...

15 Cute Forts + Tents for Kids

Read more at Design Milk: design-milk.com/...

By adding a backyard fort, you can let your kids' imaginations run wild. The design of this fort takes only an afternoon to cut and assemble the parts—and your kids will have a playhouse retreat for years to come Credit- Pinterest

Fort Ideas For Outside

When you think about a child’s room you usually think about bright colors and happy memories. Because there are so many different colors and patterns to choose from, however, it can be a little daunting to try and come up [...]]]> Hot Pink Barbie Chest of drawers Fun Classic Style From Elle International Ebay

When you think about a child’s room you usually think about bright colors and happy memories. Because there are so many different colors and patterns to choose from, however, it can be a little daunting to try and come up with a way to make your child’s room both colorful and stylish. Here are some ideas that can help you to incorporate color into your kid’s room while still having it fit in with the décor style of the rest of your home:

1.    Go for patterns – Patterns like chevrons, polka dots, or stripes can add a lot of interest to a room without making it look cheesy. Try to stick with a theme and contrast the colors for maximum effect. Bright bold colors like red, blue, and green work best when paired with a more subtle color like white or cream. You can also mix and match patterns for a fun effect, but be sure that the colors blend well or it will just end up disorienting and messy looking. This style will not work well for all children as some find too many patterns to be overwhelming.

2.    Stay basic – The basic colors are ones we all know and love. They work perfectly for a child’s room. Bright blue, deep green, vibrant red, pure pink, stark white and more can make a room seem sunny and bright no matter what the dimensions are. For a fun burst of color do not just paint the walls. Try painting furniture in bright colors. Opposites work well like orange and blue paired together. You can also do shades of the same color for a blended effect like butter yellow and lemon yellow or sky blue and navy.

3.    Paint the ceiling – The ceiling of a room is most often left blank, but why should it be? A lot of children have trouble sleeping but a colorful or interesting ceiling can give them something to keep their interest while they wait for the sandman to pay them a visit. Try to keep the colors muted for best effect or go bold with artwork pasted to the ceiling. This can also be a great place for your child’s art to be featured for years to come and just think how proud that will make them as they look up to see their art displayed. Foam boards or simple sticky tape work well to adhere things to the ceiling without making it permanent.

4.    Murals are cool –Speaking of art, a wall mural can be just the thing to add interest and color to a child’s room. You can paint almost any scene in a child’s room and they will love it. From a beach with a pirate ship in the distance to an underwater oasis for mermaids to a sky full of airplanes or a jungle full of monkeys, kid’s imaginations will bring these murals to life. If you are artistic you can paint it on yourself or hire a local painter to do the job for you. You can even purchase some wallpaper murals in specialty stores.

5.    Chalk sets you free –If you are not that artistic but your child is then a chalkboard boarder around the room might be just the deal for you. It does not just come in plain black either. In fact you can make your own chalkboard paint in almost any color. Supply your child with chalk and erasers and let them have a blast decorating and redecorating their room to their heart’s content. Not only do they get to have a room that is just for them, but you get to see their growing artistic talent every day without having to repaint their bedroom!

6.    Wall stickers add interest –Another way to add color and interest to a child’s room is to buy wall stickers. These stickers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can even be made as life size replicas of photos you have taken. Have a wall sticker made of your child’s ballet recital or their soccer game. Or go for more generic stickers like animals, flowers, trees, or aliens. Kids will get a kick out of them and you can peel and stick without having to worry about repainting. Plus these are safe from damage or disaster so you can rest easy.

7.    Fabrics are fun – Adding colorful fabrics to a child’s room is as easy as one, two, three. Curtains and pillowcases offer great opportunities for even the clumsiest sewer. You can experiment with different fabric types, different patterns, and different colors all without having to spend a lot of money. Go from the plush to the playful to the gauzy all in one room. Even if the room does not have windows you can still create the illusion of one by framing a picture with curtains for a fun and eye opening effect. You can even make a room divider out of material for children who have to share a room. This way they have all the separation of a wall but without the expense of actually installing one. Plus, when they are getting along they can open the room up again to share the space. This is a great solution for homes with more kids then bedrooms!

8.    Storage as decoration – We all know that storage is a big deal in kid’s rooms. They have so many toys and so much junk laying around that it is almost impossible to keep it picked up. Add color to the room and keep it neat at the same time by adding colorful storage options. A bookshelf can be painted a vibrant color, a simple shelf can be made into a book display area for a double whammy of storage and décor, or you can turn a windowsill into a train full off odds and ends. The choices are many and some stores offer cool furniture solutions that can help kids put away their toys in a fun and colorful way.

9.    Flooring does not have to be boring –If you think wooden floors or carpet are your only options then think again. Colorful throw rugs can add a blast of color to a child’s room and you can even make your own out of rags or strips of cloth. You can also invest in removable paint and paint your wooden floors with flowers, animals and more. Little kids love to play with cars, so a raceway across their floor may be just the thing to keep them happy for hours. You can also have fun with fake animal skin rugs, fluffy shag, or soft foam flooring for a durable and fun alternative.

10.    Streamers are not just for parties – If you think the ceiling has to be flat and boring then think again. The newest fad in children’s rooms is streamers. Pretty material draped across the ceiling is out of children’s reach to destroy and still adds beauty and color to the room. Try multi colored flags, colorful bunches of ribbon, or just drape gauzy material across the ceiling for a neat effect. You can also create a tent feel with gathered material in the center of the room. Go for bold stripes to get the full effect.

These are just a few of the ways that you can add color to your child’s room. The great thing about it is that many of these options do not involve a large investment. In fact, they are small simple changes that you can do on your own over a weekend. So, whether you are expecting your first child or have so many children that you do not know what to do, you still have the time and money to add color and style to their rooms.

Author Bio:

Roxanne Porter is a freelancer & a regular contributor for www.nannyjobs.org/.  She helps in providing knowledge about nanny services & love writing on nanny related articles. She helps in giving a fair knowledge about nanny Jobs to the community. You can be in touch with her at “r.poter08ATgmail.com”.

Purchase Oversized Canvas Boards For Your Children - Photo Credit My Home Ideas

When you are decorating a child’s room it is important to make sure that the room is not only fun for them but also safe for them to play and roughhouse in. That means that they typical picture frames [...]]]>

Purchase Oversized Canvas Boards For Your Children - Photo Credit My Home Ideas

When you are decorating a child’s room it is important to make sure that the room is not only fun for them but also safe for them to play and roughhouse in. That means that they typical picture frames and framed art will not work. Instead, there are many other ways that you can decorate the walls of your child’s room. Here are some ideas:

1. Photo Stickers – I am sure you have seen ads for those giant wall stickers that printers can now make out of your own photos. What a great idea for a kid’s room! Have a life sized sticker of them dressed in their football or ballerina or soccer gear, playing along the wall. Have photos of family, friends and pets decorate the walls so that the child always feels loved and protected. Even cutouts of their favorite cartoon characters or sports heroes would be a great idea. Best of all these stickers can easily be removed from the wall as the children change their tastes.

2. Wall Art Stickers – Like the photo stickers, wall art stickers are easy to remove. However they also come in a variety of creative patters and fun decorative ideas. Have sheep jump over your baby’s crib or send your little princess off to play with a cluster of colorful butterflies. Even happy puppies and hungry giraffes are a part of this colorful wall art. You can find these online and at some home decor retailers.

3. Wooden Letters – Another fun way to decorate a child’s room is to put their name or a special word or phrase on the wall with wooden letters. You can paint the letters a happy color to make them stand out or go more subtle with a pale pastel shade. As an alternative you can also buy letter stickers and sticker phrases of famous sayings like “Love, Joy, Peace” or “Goodnight, Sleep Tight”. You can even paint your own saying on the wall if your handwriting is good enough!

Oversized Paintings Can Really Make A Statement in A Room. 

Consider making an oversized frame out of plywood, and stretch canvas over the frame which can be stapled at the back.  Art from as little as $20 dollars.  If they want to change it in a couple months, re-paint it white.

4. Wallpaper Murals –Wallpaper murals are an easy way to add a colorful wall to your child’s room. From the cool forest to a happy land of make believe, wallpaper murals come in a variety of styles to suit any décor. You can also just use a patterned wallpaper to give the room visual interest without such a bold statement.

5. Painted Murals – If you are artistically talented you can paint a mural in your child’s room. Anything from a jungle safari to an underwater journey make great murals and tons of fun for your child. Think about what your child is interested in and then go from there.

These are just a few ideas that you can use to help brighten up the walls of your child’s room without adding in dangerous elements like sharp frames and breakable glass. A kid’s room should be happy, colorful and uplifting so have fun and get creative!

Author Byline:

Kelsey is the editor in chief for www.findananny.net/. She loves to write article and ideas that parents & nannies would be interested in hearing. She helps society on giving information about nannies through nanny services. She is a professional writer & loves writing on anything.

 Kids Decor Ideas From Serena & Lily

Close up Detail -Serena & Lily

Close up Detail -Serena & Lily

Close up Detail -Serena & Lily

Mary McDonald Uses a Bright Color on the wall, and coordinates pictures with matting in the same shades

These lavendar and cream striped walls are perfect for a childs room.  Consider using some inexpensive mini shelves to draw attention to antique toys that can be displayed on the walls.  Create a unique wall feature with your childrens art as well as a few special toys - Picture From Bruno de Caumont

Castoff CD cases are the perfect size for creating a quilt-like grid collection of landscape photos.,
From the book Photocraft: Cool Things to Do with the Pictures You Love: Scan or crop your images to the size of a CD case (5 3/8 in. wide by 4 5/8 in. high) then print on good photopaper and trim. Use the standard (not slim) cases. Discard plastic inserts., Back each photo with cardboard or foam board and snap the cases shut. Attach them to the wall with 3-inch strips of sticky-back  hood-and-loop Velcro). Photo Credit Sunset Magazine.com

Plates become wall art- Celebrate a mismatched but beloved collection by arranging them in an asymmetrical wavelike pattern on a plain white wall. Try the same technique with old 45 rpm records.- Sunset Magazine

Guidecraft kids furniture is great looking wood furniture that you should consider for your child's room.  They sell beautiful solid oak furniture that is beautiful all on it's own, as well as painted furniture that has a whimsical nature.  Guidecraft prides itself on fourty [...]]]> Guidecraft Junior Roll-Top Desk- Available in White, Espresso, and Oak Priced From $212-$255

Guidecraft kids furniture is great looking wood furniture that you should consider for your child's room.  They sell beautiful solid oak furniture that is beautiful all on it's own, as well as painted furniture that has a whimsical nature.  Guidecraft prides itself on fourty years of manufacturing quality products that put children first. They design their products with kids in mind and continually test their products to meet or exceed mandatory safety standards.  They also batch test their paints prior to production for the presence of heavy metals through independent US based third party testing laboratories.  They uphold these quality standards to  provide you with a safe, durable, and lasting product that will bring years of enjoyment.

Guidecraft has a long history of receiving Toy Awards for their product's innovation, creativity, and adaptability.  Here are some of their awards......

• Rainbow Blocks - Oppenhiem Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award, SNAP Award, Parent's Choice, Early Childhood Today Magazine "Best Pick", Parent & Child Magazine "Teacher's Pick".
• 3-D Vegetable Puzzle - National Council of Lekoteks "Best of Toys"
• 3-D Fruit Puzzle - National Council of Lekoteks "Best of Toys"
• Texture Dominoes - Oppenhiem Toy Porfolio Gold Seal Award and SNAP Award
• 3-D Feel & Find - Oppenhiem Toy Porfolio Gold Seal Award and SNAP Award
• Circle Sorter - Parent & Child Magazine "Teacher Picks"
• Geometric Puzzle Board - Oppenhiem Toy Porfolio Gold Seal Award and SNAP Award, Child Magazine "50 Best Toys"
• Big Rigs Construction Crane - Child Magazine "Best Toys of the Year"
• Magneatos - Nick Jr. Family Magazine "Best Toys", Oppenhiem Toy Porfolio Gold Seal Award Platinum Seal Award and SNAP Award
• Block Mates - Oppenhiem Toy Porfolio Gold Seal Award, Instructor Magazine "Teacher's Best Pick"
• Magneatos Master Builder Series - Oppenhiem Toy Porfolio Platinum Seal Award.
• Multi-Cultural Family Wedgie Set - Instructor Magazine "Teacher's Best Pick"
• Nordic Table & Chairs Natural & Color - Oppenhiem Toy Portfolio Gold Award
• Animal Train Sort & Match - Oppenhiem Toy Portfolio Gold Award
• Interlocks- Oppenhiem Toy Portfolio Gold Award

Guidecraft Block Cart $62

Hideaway 4-Section School Locker $450

Guidecraft Classroom Unit Blocks - 170 Piece, Classroom Unit Blocks - 170 Piece

Guidecraft Double-Sided Book Browser $170

Guidecraft Easy - View Storage Bench $260

Guidecraft Stacking Bookshelf $80
Toy Storage - Big Book Storage Box - Guidecraft - $73

Guidecraft Mission Baskets - Set of 5 $34

Audio Center Chairs Set of 2 $80

Guidecraft Single-Sided Book Browser $139

Guidecraft SOUND BOX Games $36

Guidecraft WEIGHT BOX Games $44

Guidecraft Art Activity Cart $217

Guidecraft Corner Book Nook $214

Guidecraft School Library Cart $219

Guidecraft G6470 Mobile Book Organizer $240

Guidecraft Tabletop Book Browser $34

Arches and Tunnels Arches and Tunnels $85

Kids Chair - Harmony Chair (Set of 2) $60

It is widely known—to all too many of us, alas, up close and personal—that the World Wide Web can be a prolific source of danger, with children and teenagers being kidnapped, raped and even killed by people they had met online. They may [...]]]> Kids' Steam Bent Wood Desk and Chair $69 On Amazon

It is widely known—to all too many of us, alas, up close and personal—that the World Wide Web can be a prolific source of danger, with children and teenagers being kidnapped, raped and even killed by people they had met online. They may also view sites that are pornographic or otherwise inappropriate for people of their age, download sites that contain harmful malware or viruses—or simply waste their time online.

But computers and the Internet can also be a source of great help for children. For almost three decades now the computer has been a major aid to children as a way of doing their homework assignments—and now thanks to the Internet they can also find information that they might need to help them. So now the real question becomes: How do you make sure that your child is using the Internet to do his homework and not just amusing himself or getting himself into potential danger? That will be the subject of this article.

1) Net Nanny

Keeping your child secure on the Internet means first of all that you install security software that will enable you to monitor his or her online activity. One of the highest rated and most popular programs of that ilk is Net Nanny, which can do just about all that the older software can—and much, much more. It is not only valuable for blocking out potentially bad websites or the worst parts of otherwise good ones—which it does without having to resort to a list—but it can also send you an email alert if your child is trying to access a site that he should not be, so that you can block the site. It can also present the child’s online activity in the form of a pie chart that shows the percentage of time he spends on sites of various categories, such as games, music & entertainment, shopping, adult/mature content, instructional, kids’ sites, sports, financial, personal and so on.

Net Nancy also includes a feature that can enable you to manage the amount of time that your child spends online. To use this feature you indicate the total amount of time adn the specific hours that you want spent online. The system will cause the browser to turn off when that limit runs out unless you allow additional time.

2) Behavioral Warning Signs

Having security software on your computer is a great thing, but it is not enough. You still have to make sure that your child is attending to his assignments and not simply fooling around. Go into his room now and then to see how his work is coming along. If he acts nervous or seems to be taking a site down from the screen, that may be a sign that something suspicious is going on. Better yet, set up the computer in the living room where it is easy to supervise your child on the computer.

3) Some Miscellaneous Guidelines

With sites like Youtube, MySpace and Grooveshark it is now possible to listen to music while engaging in other computer activity, online or offline. It is not a good idea to do this, however, as it can be a distraction. I for one would certainly not encourage it, unless the music is soft and is not likely to divert attention.

Get involved as much as you can in your child’s assignments. Encourage him to do his homework with you and to tell you about any problems or questions that he might have.

As in all areas of behavior, you will want to set a good example for your child by not fooling away your own time online and visiting sites that you would never let him visit. Children always learn best by observing their parents’ behavior.

By following certain rules and guidelines you can enable your child to get the benefits of the Web without encountering its dangers. You should teach him, too, that it is not good to spend longer than a certain amount of time at the keyboard—regardless of what he does with it—because it can result in physical problems.

Author Bio

Rebecca Brown is an avid blogger for NQ Mobile official profile, keeping people protected when using their mobile devices.

Flash Furniture FD-DESK-GG Student Desk with Open Front Metal Book Box $57

Eiffel Eames Style LAC Plastic Side Chair Wood Dowel Legs $119

Black Plastic Eiffel Side Chair Set of 2 with Chrome Legs $239

Winsome Childs Desk - $108 Amazon

Lipper International Child's Slanted Top Desk And Chair - $106

AFK Evan Desk Hutch with Gold Gilding

The world we are currently living in is not so new once you think about it. In fact ever since the Industrial Revolution began children have been exposed to the technology of their day. For instance, during the nineteenth century children were [...]]]>

AFK Evan Desk Hutch with Gold Gilding

The world we are currently living in is not so new once you think about it. In fact ever since the Industrial Revolution began children have been exposed to the technology of their day. For instance, during the nineteenth century children were taught how to use rifles at an early age—this we can see from reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. I have known about cars, telephones, televisions and typewriters for as long as I can remember, and was introduced to the computer in class at the age of nine. So in our own day it is only to be expected that children will learn that cellphones and laptops exist almost as soon as they can speak and understand the world around them.

But how old do children have to be before they can actually begin to use such devices themselves? Not everyone is in exact agreement on the answer to that question.

1) Differing opinions

According to a recent survey taken on ParentFurther, at least 61 percent of all parents believe that children should be from thirteen to eighteen before they get their first cellphone, while one third of those who have children who are less than nine are of the opinion that children should get their first cellphones by the time they reach twelve and 73 percent of that same demographic think that children should get a computer by that age.

2) What are the facts?

The fact is that having a cellphone is a big responsibility that is not to be taken lightly. The fact is that a cellphone is not a toy—it is a valuable instrument that people can use to share valuable information with each other. Businesspeople often use their smartphones to share files in the cloud with their staff members. People use them to call for help in case of an emergency and to find directions if they get lost. One can even save lives in this way. This is what constitutes mature and responsible cellphone usage.

Now what do young people often do with cellphones?

Much of the time they use them for frivolous purposes. There have been too many horror stories about teenagers who steal each other’s phones during sleepovers and text away on them until they have used up all the time that is available for that month. Once this is done, the rightful owner of the phone cannot use it for texting until the next month begins. They may also use them as “hostages” by promising to give them back only if certain demands are met. This is not the way smartphones were meant to be used.

Worse still, children often contact strangers who then kidnap or even murder them. Nobody wants to hear that such a thing happened just as nobody wants to hear that a neighborhood boy took a gun and shot his little sister to death. We do not allow children to do certain things. We do not allow them to drink alcohol, drive or use heavy machinery. Why then should we allow them to use technology that they do not understand how to use?

AFK Evan Chest with Gold Gilding $2926.00

3) But cellphones can be a valuable way to keep in contact!

Yes they certainly can be. Children can learn to use cellphones for the legitimate purposes described above if the proper precautions. There are certain apps that can be used to minimize the risk of irresponsible phone use by children. The most prominent among them is Mobiflock, which can serve many purposes. It can alert parents by email if children may be engaging in potentially dangerous activity. It can be used to block certain persons from being able to send or receive calls on that particular device. It can also cause the phone to be deactivated at certain times to prevent clandestine usage at night or when parents are away. With such safeguards in place parents can ensure that their children enjoy all the benefits of being able to use a cellphone without encountering the potentially bad aspects thereof.

Of course if children are below a certain age—say, seven—then they should be kept in somebody’s care if parents cannot be present.

Author Bio

Rosa uses a virtual server hosting in the cloud from ProfitBricks.com to help her international blog!

Postmaster Desk SOLID WOOD - Unfinished

Discount Wood Works sells a selection of very attractive unfinished wood furniture that you can customize for your childs room. The beauty of unfinished furniture is the opportunity to select a custom stain or paint finish without having to strip an existing piece of furniture with heavy varnish.

Discount Wood Works sells solid wood furniture which will last you through your childs years.

3 Drawer Pine Chest (Item # 68-75113RTA), Buffet Table- Unfinished, Solid Wood (Item #19-5433)

Buffet Table- Unfinished, Solid Wood (Item #19-5433),60 Writing Desk Item 19-OF42, Drop Leaf Table- Unfinished, Solid Wood Item 19-40DS, Portman End Table- Unfinished, Solid Wood (Item # 19-OT41), Mission Armchair, Unfinished Item 19-266A

Pure Fun Kid's Jumper Trampoline

Trampoline exercise has got many health benefits. Read this write up to find out what the benefits of working on trampolines are and how the gadget is used.

What is A Trampoline?

Trampoline refers to equipment which contains a taut and strong fabric that is [...]]]>

Pure Fun Kid's Jumper Trampoline

Trampoline exercise has got many health benefits. Read this write up to find out what the benefits of working on trampolines are and how the gadget is used.

What is A Trampoline?

Trampoline refers to equipment which contains a taut and strong fabric that is stretched over a steel frame by the use of coiled springs. Most individuals normally use a trampoline for rebounding for fitness or recreational purposes. The fabric usually used on a trampoline is referred to as a trampoline bed, bounce mat or simply the mat.

The trampoline elasticity does not come due to the fabrics but by springs that usually holds the frame. Currently, trampoline workouts are getting more and more popular, due to the many health benefits they are carrying. Let us now have a look at some of the benefits that are associated with using trampolines.

Health Benefits of Trampolines

#Detoxifying

The bouncing movement associated with a trampoline can be an ideal as the individual can use it to flush off various toxins from their body, especially from the lymphatic system. In the long run, this can deliver an ideal detoxifying effect.

#Improving the Breathing Capacity of a Person

When a trampoline exercise is used regularly, it will help an individual improve their breathing capacity. This will be made possible since this process will stimulate the circulation of more oxygen to the various body tissues.

#Combating Depression

Due to the fact that rebounding can also be performed for recreational purposes, using trampolines for fitness can assist in combating depression and normalizing the blood pressure of an individual.

#Preventing Occurrence of the Heart Related Disorders

Trampoline workouts are an ideal and effective way that can aid in lymphatic circulation. This may also aid in the increase of blood flow in the veins present in the circulatory system thus preventing the possibility of occurrence of various heart disorders such as a heart attack.

Diggin JumpSmart Trampoline Amazon

#Stimulating the Process of Metabolism

Trampoline exercise may also assist in stimulating an individual's metabolism process. This will in turn contribute in speeding up with the weight eradication process.

#Relieving Back and Neck Tension

This workout is an ideal way in which a person can use it to stretch their various body muscles. This will in turn prevent the occurrence of any back and neck tensions.

#Relieving Fatigue

By performing a trampoline workout, a person is able to stretch and relax various body muscles. This may in turn assist with the individual feeling relaxed. By using trampolines for fitness, you can also be able to reap the following benefits.

*Strengthening your immune system

*Tone up your glandular system and thus enable your thyroid to be in a position to be able to increase its capacity.

Last but not the least; while performing the exercise, it is ideal that you ensure you are conversant with the various trampoline safety tips in order to avoid injuries. These were some of the merits of a trampoline exercise. It is my sincere hope that you will buy such an equipment in order to be able to reap the above mentioned health benefits. Thank you.

Author Bio: Blogger who talks about trampolines for Activity Toys Direct

Moissonnier French Furniture

Decoupage is easier than you think.  The only way it becomes complicated is if you pick an ornate dresser.  There is some hope for that vintage dresser you are considering donating to your thrift store.  Vintage modern dressers would be very practical pieces to decoupage, because the lines are [...]]]>

Moissonnier French Furniture

Decoupage is easier than you think.  The only way it becomes complicated is if you pick an ornate dresser.  There is some hope for that vintage dresser you are considering donating to your thrift store.  Vintage modern dressers would be very practical pieces to decoupage, because the lines are boxy.  French dressers such as the ones from Moissonnier retail for thousands with this look.

Some of the most beautiful designs are those from wallpapers instead of cut-outs.  Consider buying a "lot" of wallpaper from ebay, working within the design of your child's room.  You could even wallpaper the walls where the dresser disappears into the room.

Here are some practical tips below to great looking decoupage DIY dressers:

Some basic tools are needed. These tools are glue, glue stick, paintbrushes, sponge paintbrush to even out the glue, scissors, and the pattern you intend to glue.

1. Carefully cut out your pattern. This will be the most time consuming process. Perhaps you plan on layering a pattern, or maybe you plan on just covering a piece of furniture, but be sure to take your time with this step because your precision will show in the end.

2. Apply a small amount of white glue or modge podge decoupage to the area of the prepared surface where you want to place your cut outs. Smooth the glue out with a small foam paintbrush.

3.Place the image onto the surface and smooth out the bubbles and wrinkles with a foam brush. A mini roller can certainly help in this stage of the project.

4. After all your images are in place, apply a coats of decoupage or substitute clear polyurethane for a gloss finish. Check on your project within the hour, as air bubbles WILL surface, which you can smooth out. If air bubbles dry, simply take a pin and deflate the bubble and add additional glue.

Do a light sand in between all additional coats.

Carmelo Catalogue - Living Agency

Moissonnier French Furniture

A Sort of A Fairytale Blog

Moissonnier French Furniture

Rose Painted Chest Of Drawers Dresser French Design Sold By Ambiance Chateau

Iannone Design - Hummingbird Graphic Dresser Price: $3,995.00

 Trip Furniture collection from Seletti.

Italian Decoupage Dresser From One Kings Lane

Although this dresser is hand painted, it could give you some ideas for an interesting Italian Design-  E.J. Victor One Kings Lane

Draper Chest in White

When you ask a child how they’d like their bedroom, you could be opening Pandora’s box. It depends on how old a child is and how mature they are as to whether they can actually answer this question.

But if you know your child well, as [...]]]>

Draper Chest in White

When you ask a child how they’d like their bedroom, you could be opening Pandora’s box. It depends on how old a child is and how mature they are as to whether they can actually answer this question.

But if you know your child well, as most parents do, then you should be able to gauge whether or not they’re ready to make these decisions for themselves.

Of course, you can always give them the chance to express their ideas and opinions, and then take it from there, trying to incorporate what they want with what you like and the budget you have available to spend on their room. This is probably the best path to take.

For instance, if your child wants a desk, a sofa, and a bed in their room, there will be a way to do this, but if they want it all in bright green MDF you may not be too comfortable with that! Instead, find them a cabin bed or mid sleeper that incorporates the things they want, but in colours and materials that you can live with in your home.

Wood is always a safe bet. For example, you can get oak beds today in all shapes and sizes. You can find a number of beds that appeal to your sense of style, yet have the components your child wants. If you buy solid bedroom oak furniture from Furnishing Homes, your children can personalise their rooms with colours of the curtains and bed linen and through the wall decoration that they choose.

At least that way, when they decide green is out and that purple is in, it’s simple to achieve the colour change and far easier than having to buy new furniture every time they have a change of heart!

Green Serpentine Dresser From Poppyseed Living on Esty

Kids Room Decor Ideas From Designer Amanda Nisbet

Kids Room Decor Ideas From Designer Phoebe Howard

Kids Room Decor Ideas From Designer Amanda Nisbet

Childrens Furniture Featured on- French Bazaar

After you and your kids have enjoyed a seasonal sport, such as baseball, basketball, golf or hockey, you may wonder what to do with your random gear and equipment. Fortunately, there are several options available to you whether you want to keep the items or you want to get rid of them.

Donate the [...]]]>

After you and your kids have enjoyed a seasonal sport, such as baseball, basketball, golf or hockey, you may wonder what to do with your random gear and equipment. Fortunately, there are several options available to you whether you want to keep the items or you want to get rid of them.

Donate the Items

If you don't think that you will get much more use out of your used sports equipment, or if you anticipate that your children will need new equipment or bigger sizes next year, consider donating your supplies. Many underprivileged families will appreciate having the opportunity to take part in a new hobby without a large up-front cost. You can give the items to an established organization, such as The Salvation Army or Goodwill, or you can check your area for specific charities that help provide sports equipment to low-income families. Some leagues have their own event. Players arrive on their final game day or end of season party with their used equipment in tow. If your league doesn't do this, consider setting up your own event.

Sell the Items

If you would like to make a little money to help curb the expense of next year's gear, consider selling the items. You can sell them online or you can purchase a newspaper ad for the gear. Some websites allow you to post for free and some communities have television channels devoted solely to local news and offers. To get a larger return, you may want to hold onto the items until closer to next year's season. People are more likely to purchase equipment they need right before the season begins.

Store the Items

Sports equipment can easily become a significant expense, especially when multiple members of the family participate in different activities. You may want to try to hold onto the items so that you can use them for later. This may save you the most amount of money in the long run. You may also want to keep the equipment in case younger children or family members want to use them. Storing off season sports equipment can be difficult if you have a lot of items that tend to be bulky. Maximize your storage by using a few basic tips. Hang whatever you can. You may be able to mount an unused bicycle to the top of your garage. Hang sturdy hooks from pegboard in your garage or your kids' rooms to hold golf bags, sports ball bags, duffel bags, tennis racket holders, in-line skates and other items. Place items that are needed for the same sport in the same bag or bin. For example, place your baseball glove, batting glove, cleats and baseball socks in the same container. Label these bins and stack them in your garage or attic in an organized manner.

Use the Items

You may be able to use some of the items at home even if it is not the season for a particular sport. For example, you can set up soccer nets and practice cones in the backyard during a barbecue or during recreational time to have something fun for the kids to do. You can use some items to help train during the off season. Playing catch with a football never goes out of style no matter what month it is.

Repurpose the Items

If you cannot use the items for their intended purpose, you may be able to use them for another purpose. For example, if you don't have a basketball net, use the basketball to play four-square. Use your volleyball to play with in the swimming pool. Convert your skateboard to a cool shelf in your child's bedroom. Use a set of golf balls or tennis balls as a unique centerpiece or in the translucent base of a table lamp. Bowling balls may serve as table or night stand legs. Use your creativity to turn unused or unneeded items into a functional piece for your life.

Sports equipment can easily take up a lot of space. However, if you plan wisely, you can use the items in creative ways, maximize their use, give to a good cause or make a few bucks just in time for next season.

Author Bio

Becky Harris writes for Upack abf portable storage containers for customers with businesses on the go!

Ralph Lauren Kids

Gabby Ralph Lauren Winter 08

Christy Turlington- Photographed by Patrick Demarchelier

If your children seem to be watching too much television or playing way too many video games, it's time to change the way we spend our free time. It's time to get the whole family together and connect with each other. It can be simple and easy to do as well [...]]]> Julianne Moore

If your children seem to be watching too much television or playing way too many video games, it's time to change the way we spend our free time. It's time to get the whole family together and connect with each other. It can be simple and easy to do as well as enjoyable. A little prep work and time can change the way free time is utilized by your family.

Get a game plan that involves the whole family

Pick an assortment of games and activities that the whole family chooses and votes on to participate in. Bowling and cycling are too options that individuals of all ages can enjoy. Mix group games and activities together with individual games and activities. This allows you to encourage family time while also providing an opportunity for each member of the family to pursue his or her own interests. Write down the number of days, which days and the times that the games and activities will be completed.

Choose activities that meet the criteria for each family's ages and needs

It is important to choose games and activities that your children will enjoy and that are appropriate for their age group. If you want all the members of your family to participate in the same game or activity, you can make adjustments to accomplish this goal. For example, small covered trailers are available that allow you to strap your toddler in. You can attach this trailer to your bike if you want all of the members of your family to go cycling. If bowling is the activity that you choose, younger children can have rails put up to avoid gutter balls and can use an assistive device that helps roll the ball down the land. Another important consideration is the time of the activity. Some children perform best in the early morning while others may have more energy in the afternoon. Try to schedule your children's activities in a way that maximizes their individual needs. You may also have to consider other activities that affect your family, such as church, school, work and free time, and schedule the new games and activities around these commitments. You do not want to select so many games and activities that you force your children to rush through them.

Use organizational tools to stay on track

Make a large chart at home that lists the day, time, activity and name of the child participating in it. Color coding is often effective at keeping information straight. You can also make an online version of this calendar and send it to each member of your family so everyone is always aware of what is going on. Reminders and calendar features in your phone also help keep everyone on the same page.

Make sure that all equipment and games are in complete and working order

If you will be completing games and activities at your own household, have one member of your family who is responsible for making sure that all of the items needed for the game or activity are available and working properly. You can create a simple list for this step. For example, if soccer is scheduled for the day, you may list practice cones, the ball and nets as the necessary items. The person responsible for checking the equipment can locate each item and bring it to the designated area. To save time, you can also have this family member set up the equipment needed for the activity or game. Routinely check the equipment that you have and make necessary adjustments. For example, air up sports balls. You can also place all of the items that are needed for specific games and activities in labeled bins in the garage to stay better organized.

Keep it fun for the children

The main goal is to ensure your children's enjoyment with the game or activity. This will help you to increase each child's interest in the activity and will motivate them to have a more active style. Do not overwhelm your kids with too many activities or games that are too aggressive. Make sure that they still have plenty of time for homework and free time. The idea is to have a fun time doing things together.

Author Bio

Rebecca Brown is an avid blogger for NQ Mobile, keeping people protected when using their mobile devices.

Amber Valetta

Amber Valetta doesn’t let her kids watch the TV. The actress — who raises son Auden,  with her Olympic volleyball player husband Christian “Chip” McCaw — says she’s banned her boy from watching the television because she doesn’t want him growing up addicted to the small screen. “Also, because it’s so nice and quiet in our house, and I just love it,” Valletta said during a recent interview on The Bonnie Hunt Show.

“Besides the three dogs and my son, it’s just really peaceful.“We do DVDs and we go to the theater and we go to movies. So I mean, he knows what’s going on in the world pretty much. He thinks I’m a bit strict, but yeah. He knows what’s going on.”

Jennie Garth with daughters Luca, Lola, and Fiona

Angie Harmon

Brooke Shields and her little girls Rowan and Grier look lovely in the Dec/Jan issue of Cookie Magazine.

Brooke Shields

Brooke Shields

Tabitha Simmons Vogue

Most homes are spacious enough to allow the owners to feel comfortable. At times, you may even think you’ve got too much space, especially when it’s time to clean and dust. More often, though, there is a kid's bedroom that isn’t very big and may be dark, dingy, and cramped. [...]]]> Designer Mary McDonald

Most homes are spacious enough to allow the owners to feel comfortable. At times, you may even think you’ve got too much space, especially when it’s time to clean and dust. More often, though, there is a kid's bedroom that isn’t very big and may be dark, dingy, and cramped. There is no need to tear down a wall or build an addition--there are other ways to make a small room appear larger. Here are a few tips.

Paint Works Wonders

One of the best ways of making a small space seem larger is to paint the room. A paint job will spruce up a room and give it a completely different look. If you use a bright color, such as a light yellow or white, the room will seem to expand, while using darker colors, such as black or brown will make the walls appear to creep inward. A bright paint job makes a room shine, and by using lighter shades of blue or a light shade of purple, such as violet, you’ll soften the appearance and create a more open feel.

Let In the Light

Another way to brighten a room is to add more light. A floor lamp or two in the corners will really brighten things up, and by using lamps with multiple bulbs, you’ll be able to control the light more effectively--because there may be times when you want to add a little ambiance by creating a darker, sultry affect.

Light-Colored Furniture

An overall theme when trying to make a small room appear larger is to lighten it up. One way to do that is to buy light-colored furniture. If the chairs, couch, and other furniture in the room are too good to throw away you can cover them with a lighter material, which not only brightens the room but will probably lengthen their usefulness.

Sweet Pickins Furniture

Small Furnishings

Putting small furnishings in a small room will make it look bigger. If it’s a bedroom you’re trying to improve, you can use light-colored bedding on a smaller bed, which will not only give you more floor space, but will also make the room look bigger. The same concept applies to other furniture, such as chairs and couches. If you have an over-sized chair, try replacing it with a smaller easy chair. It will make the room seem larger. If you replace the full-sized couch with a love seat, it will create more floor space and give the room a generally larger feel. However, it may be a good idea to have one large-sized piece of furniture in the room, which will make the rest of it appear smaller in contrast, and provide a sense of space.

Extend the Borders

If you have a larger room, such as the kitchen or living room, that has borders around the ceiling or floorboards, you can extend those borders into the smaller room. It will give the smaller room the appearance of being a part of the larger room.

Lighter Carpeting

Sticking with the ‘lighter is larger’ concept you can replace dark carpeting with a lighter color, which will give the appearance of enlarging the room, especially if you compliment it with lighter colored walls and more artificial light. A lighter motif will take away the feeling that you’re entering a cave, and will give the impression of a much larger room.

Brighten It with Art

Simply lightening the color on walls, ceilings, and floors will create a brighter, roomier feeling, but it can be overdone. In order to break it up you should add a few pieces of art. Bright, cheery scenes hung well off the floor will draw your eyes upward, which will give an impression of space. Having floor to ceiling drapes on windows will also provide a feeling of openness.

Mirrors

A larger mirror placed inconspicuously can make a room seem like it’s much bigger than it is. The reflection of light not only gives the appearance of increasing the size of the room, but will actually add to the overall brightness.

Let In More Light

It may be a last resort, because the cost could be prohibitive, but one of the best ways to make a room seem bigger than it actually is, is to increase the size of the windows, or add windows, a sliding door, or a sun roof. This will add more natural light, giving the impression of a much larger room.

Guest post from Casey Lynch. Casey writes about home insurance and home insurance quotes for HomeInsurance.org.

Serena & Lily - Kids Room Decor Ideas

San Francisco-based designer Kendall Wilkinson

Featured on Mrs Blandings Blog

Because there are several factors to keep in mind when selecting the right mattress for your child, deciding which one to buy can be somewhat challenging. Unlike a bicycle or a pair of tennis shoes, a mattress is something that your child should be able to use for many [...]]]> Designer Leta Austin Foster

Because there are several factors to keep in mind when selecting the right mattress for your child, deciding which one to buy can be somewhat challenging. Unlike a bicycle or a pair of tennis shoes, a mattress is something that your child should be able to use for many years--so careful consideration should be taken to select one that will provide your child with countless nights of peaceful sleep. If your child needs a new mattress, here are some important things to keep in mind while you look for the perfect one.

Size

A mattress for a child should be able to accommodate and endure a number of growth spurts, so be sure to look for one that your child can grow into. Although a twin bed, especially an extra-long one, is usually adequate for most kids--a larger size such as a full or queen might be more comfortable as your child gets older. The size of your child's bedroom is also something that you need to consider because a small bedroom may not be able to accommodate too large a mattress. Since the mattress you choose should fit both your child and the room it will occupy, pay close attention to the mattress measurements as you look at all of your options.

Type

There are several types of mattresses to choose from, and while one type might be right for one child--it may not be the best option for another. The most common type of mattress purchased for children is an innerspring mattress. Innerspring mattresses depend on coils and layers of filling for support, and they are by far usually the most economical option. Innerspring mattresses vary in quality and level of support they can offer, as well as how many years of use you can expect to get out of them. This is due largely in part to the type of coils they contain. Go for the highest quality innerspring mattress you can afford if that's the type you end up choosing.

Memory foam mattresses are typically more expensive than innerspring mattresses. A memory foam mattress will contour to your child based on his or her body temperature--a unique feature that can be quite comfortable.

Latex foam is another type of mattress that is growing in popularity. If you opt to buy a latex foam mattress, though, it's best to choose one made out of natural latex instead of synthetic. Most natural latex mattresses offer excellent support because they mold themselves around the body to give just the right level of firmness.

If your child needs extra support, an air mattress might be an option worth considering. Air mattresses can adjust to fit a variety of sleep needs, including level of support. Because of this fact, they are usually much more expensive than other types of mattresses.

Support

To ensure proper bone development and decent support for the body as a whole, opt for a firm mattress instead of a soft one for your child. A mattress that sinks under the weight of your child is one that won't last long--and they probably won't sleep well on it, either. If you have questions about your child's sleep needs, ask his or her pediatrician for some advice before you purchase a new mattress. You can also consult with a sales associate while you shop to find out which mattresses will provide the most support for your child. In addition to professional opinions, take your child along when you shop and let them test out all of the options. Their input is the most important when it comes to making a final decision.

Materials

Mattresses are made from a variety of materials, so pay attention and ask questions to find out what they're made of before you make a purchase. It may surprise you to learn that many mattress fillings contain harsh chemicals, and those chemicals release dangerous gases into the very air that your child breathes while asleep. Read mattress tags to find out what's really inside, and so some research if you have any doubts. More and more mattresses are being made out of natural, organic materials such as cotton and wool in an effort to go green--and these materials are just as safe for your child as they are for the environment. Also, if your child suffers from asthma or allergies, be sure to look for materials that won't agitate their particular health condition.

Price

When you're looking for a mattress for your child, price can be a big factor if you're on a tight budget. If you find a mattress that's perfect for your child, take note of the brand and type--then find out if you can find it cheaper somewhere else. Take advantage of sales and rebates if they're offered so that you can get a great mattress at a price you can afford.

Knowing what to look for is the key to finding the right mattress for your child, so consider the all of the above factors while you shop. The time and effort put into finding a great mattress will result in many years of sweet dreams and restful sleep for your growing child.

Guest post from Bailey Harris.

Kids Room Design Ideas From Jefferes Design Group Featured on Nursery Notations Blog

Kids Room Design Ideas From Paris photos from House & Garden, May 2006, Francois Halard photographer Peak of Chic Blog

Kids Room Design Ideas From Jefferes Design Group Featured on Nursery Notations Blog

Almost all children love arts and crafts projects, and they're a great activities for keeping summer boredom at bay. Besides that, the art your kids create can be used as fun, colorful, and sometimes even functional accents to decorate your home. If you're looking for some art projects to busy the kids and spice [...]]]>

Almost all children love arts and crafts projects, and they're a great activities for keeping summer boredom at bay. Besides that, the art your kids create can be used as fun, colorful, and sometimes even functional accents to decorate your home. If you're looking for some art projects to busy the kids and spice up your living space, give one of these summer craft project ideas a try.

Chinese Lanterns

Chinese lanterns are very simple to make, and kids will enjoy decorating their rooms with them. Because this project requires the use of scissors and glue, be sure to supervise younger children while they make their lanterns. To make a Chinese lantern, have your child choose one sheet of colored construction paper and then fold it in half lengthwise. It should look like a long rectangle. Then direct them with the instructions that follow. Place the folded paper in front of you so that the fold line is closest to you, open ends up. With a pair of child's safety scissors, cut long slits along the fold line towards the open ends of the paper. Make sure you don't cut all the way to the open ends--stop about 1/2" from the edge. Cuts should be spaced approximately 1/2" to 1" apart, and they should resemble the teeth of a wide-toothed comb when finished. Carefully unfold the piece of paper and bring the open edges around to meet each other so your paper forms the shape of the lantern. Use child-safe glue to secure one edge over the other. Then take another sheet of construction paper and cut a long strip, about 6" to 7" long and 1" wide. Glue each end of the strip into the lantern at the top to form a handle. If you wish to personalize your lantern, you can decorate it with crayons, markers, glitter, sequins, and more. To add some summer flair to any room, string several lanterns by their handles onto some colorful yarn and drape them from wall to wall.

Hand-Painted Flower Pots

Children of all ages love to paint, and this easy craft project will allow them to make pretty flowerpots to accent any sunny room in your home. Purchase terra cotta flower pots in a variety of sizes from your local craft supply store, garden center, or discount store and have your children select the pot they would like to decorate. Cover a work area with newspaper, and then place an assortment of paint brushes and non-toxic paints for your child to choose from on the table. Have the kids paint their pots however the wish. Along with painting the pots, children can trim their pots with ribbons or a border of glued on objects like buttons, shells, or small mosaic tiles. Once the pots have dried, you or your child can plant something inside them. Place them in sunny window sills or on counter tops or tables to brighten up any room.

Photo Credit- Pinterest

Seed Mosaics

Could your home use some accents on the walls? Ask your children to make you some interesting wall art with a seed mosaic project. Set little bowls on a covered work area, and fill each one with a different type of seed or dried bean. You could even fill one of the bowls with whole cloves. Using child-safe glue, have your child make a mosaic on a piece of heavy tag-board by using the seeds and beans as the medium for their picture. To make it easier, have them draw out their picture with a pencil first, and then glue the seeds and beans on one by one to complete their mosaic art.

Wildflower Placemats

Another fun and easy summer craft project for kids is to make their own placemats. Have your children gather pretty flowers and greens from your yard or garden or provide them with some flowers and greens made of fabric or plastic. On a sheet of colored paper, children can draw or paint and then arrange and glue their flowers and greens into patterns or at random. Once the paint and glue have dried, the placemats can be sealed and protected with contact paper. Working with contact paper can be tricky, so help your child by peeling off the paper backing and then laying the contact paper down flat--sticky side up. Place the artwork on the contact paper, and then sandwich it by placing another piece of contact paper to the other side, sticky side down. Trim the excess contact paper from the edges and the placemats will be ready to use.

Summer craft projects provide wonderful opportunities for children to learn how to do something new--and any one of these projects is sure to spark their creativity as well. Best of all, they'll be proud to see their newly created masterpieces displayed throughout the home.

Guest post from Payton Price. Payton writes for TermLifeInsurance.org.

As your children grow up and get older they easily and quickly grow out of their toys, clothes and even their bedrooms. Your little princess may love Pink on her tenth birth – but by her twelfth birthday she prefers green! We always want to keep our children happy too – and it’s so [...]]]>

As your children grow up and get older they easily and quickly grow out of their toys, clothes and even their bedrooms. Your little princess may love Pink on her tenth birth – but by her twelfth birthday she prefers green! We always want to keep our children happy too – and it’s so important to make sure their bedroom is a place where they can study, relax and spend time happily.

Redecorating isn’t cheap though and for many of us it’s simply not a financial viable option to be redecorating the entire room every year. There are some great ways you can spruce your child’s rooms though without spending a fortune and without taking up a lot of time either. Here I’ll run through some easy ways to keep the children happy (and keep the bank happy too)!

(Photo Credit Erik Pia Secki)

1.    Posters

Posters don’t have to be stuck up on the wall with blue tack at a jaunty angle. You can buy cheap plexi-glass clip frames for extremely cheap – and it means you can easily and quickly update the walls of children’s bedroom as their interests change. A simple poster can make a huge difference to the room and to your child’s happiness too! And the best bit…. A poster costs as little as £1!

2.    Coloured rugs

An easy way to quickly change the look of a room is to change the colour or texture of the rug in the room. In the winter you could buy a big sheepskin rug to keep them cosy and warm, but in the winter you may want to buy a bright colourful rug to lighten and brighten the room.

(Elle Decor Clip Boards- Change out your kids art work weekly)

3.    Photo Frames

Photographs are a great way to make a child feel at home in a room. Printing off images is very cheap now (Boots and Snappy Snaps do an instant service at bargain prices) and you can grab cheap frames from Primark or Wilkinson’s for under £5. A couple of photo frames around the room will make your child smile – as they can remember all the wonderful memories you’ve made with them!

4.    Accent wall

If your child is always changing their taste, why not have an accent wall? This is one wall in the room which can easily be changed and painted whenever you want to – but that need little paint to cover it (saving money) and that accentuates the room without painting the whole thing (saving time).

Just remember to keep things fresh and updated every now and again and your children will love spending time in their room. The easiest way to get children excited about studying, is to create a great environment for them to study and work in – and their bedroom makes the perfect place for this. It doesn’t have to be an expensive thing though – so don’t worry that it does. Following my simple steps will keep your children happy all year round!

Elle-Rose works for Calle Arco as a family writer.

Paint Your kids furniture.  This is a very easy way to update their room.  This piece above is a Campaign desk.

Why not go with a theme that you can change around in a couple years?  All the picture frames can be exchanged out over time.  This theme is very unique and inspirational.  Lisa Sherry Interieurs

Wallpaper and fabric can add a lot of interest in a room.  Make your own roman shades from the fabric you adore, and which can also be very neutral in his or her room for several years.  -Picture Credit Homes & Gardens, March 2010

Are you looking for something really interesting for your kids room?  Are you a mom with an appreciation for the rustic and primitive styles?  Cuckoo clock's are often seen by themselves, but they sure would be fun to look at as a painted collection on the wall.

A cuckoo clock is a clock, typically regulated [...]]]>

Are you looking for something really interesting for your kids room?  Are you a mom with an appreciation for the rustic and primitive styles?  Cuckoo clock's are often seen by themselves, but they sure would be fun to look at as a painted collection on the wall.

A cuckoo clock is a clock, typically regulated by a pendulum that strikes the hours with a sound like a common cuckoo's call.  With that call comes the excitement of seeing the  mechanical cuckoo that emerges with each note. Almost every kind of cuckoo clock since the middle of the 18th century and has remained the same without variation until the present.

The most traditional style of cuckoo clocks are often ones in wooden cased decorated with carved leaves and animals.   A bird appears through a small trap door while the clock is striking. The bird is often made to move as the clock strikes, like a bird chirping.  It is magical to watch.

Having chiming clocks in your home can present a warm atmosphere.  My grandfather was a collector of these clocks.  At the top of the hour, it was almost as though a symphony played when his dozen or so clocks went off.  You would think it would wake you up through the night, although after a while you sleep right through the noise.  You certainly were aware of the time, when the ticking was non stop around the house.

David and Tereasa’s House

David and Tereasa’s Daughter- Charlie's Room

The Lettered Cottage showed a glimpse into David and Tereasa’s wedding held at Wandawega, and then a few years later when the couple Fast welcomed their daughter, Charlie, to the world.  Tereasa showed off her genius paint by numbers wall which she hand painted from a overhead projector.  Get some ideas from her amazing nursery for Charlie at the Lettered Cottage Blog

David and Tereasa’s Daughter- Charlie's Room

White cuckoo clocks from Urban Outfitters

Cool pink cuckoo clock found here

White Painted Cuckoo Clock From My Shabby Passion

Families with children often deal with the problem of toy clutter. They find that there are perpetually toys lying around the house, waiting to be tripped over. While putting them in a pile in an out-of-the-way corner of a room may decrease the possibility of tripping on them, it certainly isn't the most stylish [...]]]>

Families with children often deal with the problem of toy clutter. They find that there are perpetually toys lying around the house, waiting to be tripped over. While putting them in a pile in an out-of-the-way corner of a room may decrease the possibility of tripping on them, it certainly isn't the most stylish option. Here are a few creative and stylish options for corralling toy clutter while maintaining a chic and sophisticated look in one's home.

(Picture Credit - Number Tags In Brights From Ormolu on Esty)

Many children play with their toys in common areas of a home such as the living room or the family room. Therefore, it only makes sense to store a number if not all of the toys in these rooms. To remain tuned in to the style of these rooms without turning them into playrooms, one could choose baskets and bins made of natural products such as wood, leather or bamboo. These can then be stacked on the bottom shelves of bookcases or on the lower shelves of coffee or end tables where children can easily reach them.

Another option for stuffed animal storage in a living or family room is to purchase a large wicker or bamboo basket with a lid, possibly something styled similar to a hamper. Here is a stylish and natural-looking option by Oriental Furniture made out of natural grasses. The key here is to make sure the basket has a lid.

Children's books that are stored in a living room can be placed in a stylish magazine rack. Place this rack in the child’s favorite reading corner and he or she will be drawn to this spot. Here is a beautiful bamboo offering by Solutions.

Toy clutter in playrooms or bedrooms can be easily managed with some more functional products. One idea is to purchase matching clear plastic bins with lids in a variety of sizes. These can be placed on low shelves in the child's room or closet and can be labeled so that the child always knows which toys go in which box.

A more colorful option would be to use colorful open bins placed on slanted wooden storage racks. These open bins make it easy for a child to clean up after himself since there are no lids for him to open and replace. Plus, these bins can be lifted off the wooden rack at playtime. Loredana Sava shows a bright option similar to this on homedit.

The Container Store, mentions a great tip that can be put to use in a number of creative ways. They recommend using an over-the-door shoe storage hanger to corral toys when storage quarters are tight. Shoe organizers are perfect for small toys or sets of toys. A clear one, helps children see exactly what is in each pocket. On the other hand, a canvas one, such as this one from World Market will look more stylish and organized since messy toys will not be seen through the pockets.

To corral the clutter of toys in closets effectively, a smart choice would be hanging canvas closet shelving. Closet organizers typically used for shoes, such as the one below, work well in tight spaces and for smaller toys. Canvas organizers, usually used for sweaters and other folded clothing, expertly hold lightweight books and larger toys. An example of this design can be seen at Buy.com

Having children does not mean that one must live in a messy, cluttered home. By using creativity, ingenuity and a few extra resources for organizing, parents can keep their living rooms clutter-free and their children’s bedroom clean while having favorite toys always at the ready. Try one, two or all of these techniques to keep toys organized and the home guest-approved.

Author bio:

Stacy Dewald is an interior designer and writes for Gadget Gnome.

Stylish Storage Options For Toy Clutter From The Container Store

The Frog chair in the dressing room of a Loudonville, New York, home is by Michael Taylor Designs and is upholstered in a Gretchen Bellinger fabric; the boxes on the custom-made shelves hold shoes and hats. - ELLE DECOR

The idea of organizing with shoe boxes may sound silly at first, but it is [...]]]>

The Frog chair in the dressing room of a Loudonville, New York, home is by Michael Taylor Designs and is upholstered in a Gretchen Bellinger fabric; the boxes on the custom-made shelves hold shoes and hats. - ELLE DECOR

The idea of organizing with shoe boxes may sound silly at first, but it is a fantastic way of cleaning up some of your smaller possessions, all without having to spend a fortune on extra furniture. A shoe box can hold anything from toys and kitchen gadgets.  Shoe boxes are absolutely perfect for kids toys.  I am sure you know how some of the smallest accessories that come with toys, such as the GI Joe Action figures, and Barbie doll accessories that are played with for a couple days, and their shoes are missing or the lego pieces that are randomly found around the house.

-Eco-Modern Metal Art Label Holders & Labels-20 Pieces $6.33

-Bankers Box Drawer Steel Plus Storage Drawers, 6 Pack $35

-Bankers Box Steel Plus Storage Drawers, 6 Pack $119

-13 x 8 x 5" Kraft One-Piece Corrugated Shoe Boxes $1.50

-Bankers Box Storage Drawers, 6 Pack  $109

-Bankers Box Storage Boxes, 12 pack $34

Re-purposeing Shoe Boxes

1.  I used to collect dozens of nice boxes at some of the department stores that sold shoes without their boxes.  Ross Dress For Less in my local area threw away boat loads of boxes in their garbage dump each week.  Although at the time, I only needed a couple, dozens were trashed from week to week.

Economy Storage File Box with Lid

-24 x 15 x 10" Economy Storage File Box with Lid $2.95 -See more deals from Uline!

Eco-Modern Metal Art Label Holders & Labels-20 Pieces $6.33

2. Put a little extra work into the boxes.  Buy a gallon of flat paint and dress up the boxes with paint.  Flat paint will adhere to the cardboard, and a coat of satin paint in the same color will give the boxes a nice sheen.  Paint your boxes the same color schemes as your kids room.

3.  Book shelves are absolutely perfect for shoe boxes.  Go to your local Home Depot and purchase extra shelves, to customize the look for shoe boxes.  Add some decorative molding at the bottom of the shelves for a built in look.  This idea is perfect for play rooms.

4.  The space at the top of the ceiling is rarely used.  Make the bookshelves appear built in by extending the shelves to the ceiling.  Be sure to anchor the shelves to the wall.  Store some of the seasonal toys at the top of the shelves.  Lets face it, everyone can use extra storage space.  Ikea sells extensions for Billy Book shelves.  Add one or two to your book shelves and make your organizing units to up to the ceiling.

Thrifty Ideas For Your Kids Room- Shoe Box Town Play Ideas

5.  Painting plain cardboard is easy with flat paint.  Simply paint your boxes to match your child's room.  Used shoe boxes that have a shiny coating need to be primed.  Also bookshelves that have a plastic coating on them, also need to be primed to be sure the paint will stick.

I made the mistake when I was first married using satin paint on my pressed board bookshelves.  Later, they peeled in awful way.  In fact, many of my husbands books were ruined because the paint stuck to the books.  After several years of painting experience, I have learned that you need a good primer when painting these plastic pieces.  Paint can customize everything!  Think of how wonderful bookcases would look in a Glossy Kelly Green with matching satin Kelly green storage containers?  I can dream of it now!!  I stumbled across a great paint called COVER STAIN.  It is a OIL based primer that sticks to everything.  I simply cannot get over this paint.  It isn't like your typical oil paints that are hard to work with.  It goes on very easy, covers well, and dries fast and can be sanded.  It dries matte, which is highly unusual for a oil based paint.  I only wish I had found it much earlier! The other best thing about this paint, is it can be tinted most light colors.  So if you are wanting to do a mint, it can be tinted a mint, or most decorating colors.  I stumbled upon this paint when I used some of the other "paint and primer brands" that only worked if YOU put hours of sanding into piece.  I really didn't WANT to bend over backwards for every piece I wanted to paint.  Coverstain made it possible for me to just paint an item, and have the reassurance that it would stick.  It sticks to everything!  It is one paint that I cannot go without anymore.

More Interesting Ideas For Shoe Boxes........

-Shoe Box Canvas- Art can be so easy as painting the lid of a shoe box. Change your kids art once a week with this thrifty idea

Buying New Boxes:

1.Collect all the items you want to organize before you order your plastic boxes. It will give you a fair idea about how many boxes you should order. Check the shoe box sizes your retailer has listed online. Buying all your boxes in the same size will make it easier to stack them.

2. A couple dozen clear shoe box's only will make your kids playroom or bedroom look cluttered.  Having solid boxes that have contents labels will always make a better impression than boxes that are clear that contain messy countless toys.  Storage boxes were designed to HIDE the endless junk that we all collect.

-Consider working with this idea.  Get transparencies and glue them to the inside of the box.

-Even easier- Shoe box labels (lego, barbies, toy cars) ect

-Attach a photo to the outside of the box.  So easy!

-EK Success Tools Punch, Tag $14

-Xtra Giga Craft Punch, Merchandise Tag, $19 Jumbo Craft Punch, $11

-EK Success Tools Punch, Rococo Design $14

-Polished Brass Label Holder $7

-6 Metal Label Holders Antique copper $8

3.  Labelling adds a lot to a box.  I personally love the way brass looks against colorful paint.  It stands out, and looks sophisticated all at the same time.  Just because you have kids doesn't mean everything needs to look as though it came from the set of Alice in Wonderland.  Painting your boxes a saturated ocean blue and adding card holders in brass and white card-stock can look absolutely terrific.  As the kids get older, the play room can be used for crafting, and hobby organization.

Paint your shelves and boxes once with a color that can transition nicely through the years.  Martha Stewart has been known to favor the pastel tones over the years.  Consider painting the surrounding walls a nice mint in egg shell.  Shelving can be painted the same color but in a gloss tone to set it apart from the walls.  Storage containers can be finished in a satin sheen. The room looks put together and has a designer touch.  Add in a play table, and later that play table can be exchanged out for a crafting table.

LOOK How nice these shelves look painted in plum paint. Imagine how good this would look with matching storage boxes in the same paint!!!!! Drake Designs & Wouter Vandertol Photography

Purple Spray Paints For Your Kids Room Decor

One way of DECIDING on the right color, is to find a color that is currently available with spray paints.  If you find a the right shade, you can use the spray paint for a finish paint on your storage boxes.  THEN, base the other rooms colors off of that shade.  Use the same shade, or lighter shade for the walls, and a darker hue of those colors for the trim of the windows, doors, and baseboard.  Most hardware stores have color match technology.

Simply Spray Upholstery Fabric Spray Paint -Plum- Transform that thrift store upholstery chair to a shade of plum without the cost of upholstery. $11 - 6 Pack $60

Dupli-Color Ceramic Plum Purple Engine Paint - Obviously made for cars, but dotes a high gloss finish. $12

Krylon Indoor & Outdoor Spray Paint, Rich Plum Gloss (6 Pack) $30

VHT S Anodized Purple Color Coat Can - Dress up some wall accessories with this metalic purple. Consider spray painting a series of toys for a unique wall display. $11

Dupli-Color Purple Metal Cast Anodized Color - 11 oz. $10

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Multi-Purpose Spray Paint, Gloss Purple $4.80

Aerosol Paint 12 oz-Purple $3.42

Rust-Oleum American Accents Spray, Satin French Lilac $4.74

Krylon X-Metals Purple by Krylon $9

Rust-Oleum Automotive Metal Coat Spray, Purple $11

Krylon Spray Paints Purple Spray Paint $4.50

KRYLON-Dual Paint & Primer One Spraypaint Purple Gloss $31.

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Spray Paint, Satin French Lilac, $5

Other Considerations:

-Krylon  Indoor/Outdoor Paint, Blue (6 Pack) $29

-Diversified Brands BAHAMA SEA; Interior/Exterior  $5.60

-Rust-Oleum American Accents Spray, Aqua, Fossil, Grape, Heirloom White, Iris Blue, Lagoon,  Leaf Green, Light Sage,  Midnight Blue, Pink Orchid, Pink Rosewood, Paprika, Seaside Green, Strawflower, Summer Squash, Tomato

-Spa Blue Gloss Painter's Touch 2X Cover Spray Paint  [Set of 6] $22

-Krylon  Indoor/Outdoor Paint,  Almond (6 Pack) $5

-Krylon Fusion Spray Paint in ALMOND (pack of 6) $30

--Krylon Fusion Spray Paint in Peekaboo Blue (pack of 6) $30

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Watermelon (6 Pack) $30

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Tomato (6 Pack) $30

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Clay  (6 Pack) $30

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Gum Drop (6 Pack) $5

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Black (6 Pack) $5

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Brass (6 Pack) $5

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Ivy Leaf (6 Pack) $5

-Krylon Fusion Plastic Spray Paint, Navy (6 Pack) $5

-Krylon 7032 Lacquer Sprays, Clear (6 Pack) (MIS-PRINT???) $5 Dollars For 6 ??

-Krylon Acrylic Crystal Clear, Clear (6 Pack) $14

-Krylon 1818 Farm Paint, Red, Bright Red (6 Pack) $8

-12 oz Can Ruddy Brown KRYLON 5-BALL Primer, Pack of 6 $37

Vintage Painted French Provincial Furniture From Erin Hacker

Spring and Summer is just around the corner, and people are itching to give their tired old furniture a well needed makeover. This chest is a great example of the color yellow that is often found in the countryside of France. Give [...]]]>

Vintage Painted French Provincial Furniture From Erin Hacker

Spring and Summer is just around the corner, and people are itching to give their tired old furniture a well needed makeover. This chest is a great example of the color yellow that is often found in the countryside of France. Give your childrens room a bright makeover by painting their furniture.

*Consider painting a chest yellow and distressing it heavily to show the wood underneath.

*Consider painting a bright yellow such as the chest above, and adding additional wash of light yellow over top to give it some depth.  This can be easily done by "dry brushing"  Dry brushing is removing most of the paint off the brush, and stippling it, or hammering it on to the surface creating a texture.  OR, you can simply brush it on with back and forth movements if you want a simple look.  Take a damp rag to reveal some of the highlights of the furniture.  The brighter paint color will show through.

-French Provincial chest in a butter yellow and used in an entry way. Here is Lindsey in front of her painted chest.

-Dandelion Yellow Painted End Tables

-Painted Yellow Bench By Atelier de Campagne

-Heavily Distressed Scott Paper Yellow-Painted Advertising Box

-Yellow Painted Vintage French Provincial Chest

-A French Provincial Yellow Painted Marbleized Console

-Pair French Empire Yellow Painted Tole Metal Cabinets

-Georgian Painted Yellow Twin Beds in A Sharp Yellow Paint Finish

-Louis XVI Painted Yellow Commode

-Georgian Yellow Painted Secretary - With Walls To Match

-Shabby Chic Style Distressed Yellow Cupboard Thayer Allyson Gowdy

-Decorating With Yellow- My Furniture Selection Choices....

-French Painted Tole Tray Table In Bright Yellow

-Design Sponge's Antique Yellow Painted Dresser.

-Somerset Bay Furntiure - In a Butter Yellow Paint

-Yellow Painted Tole Tray A Bamboo Stand.

-Yellow Swedish Painted Daybed Featured in A Childs Room

-Lovely Tea Table in Yellow - By My Blessed Life

-Gertrude and Otto Natzler Yellow Glazed Bowl

-Victorian Chest Featured In Martha Stewarts Magazine - Painted in Yellow and highlighed with lighter yellow paint

The Romanian site Casamea featured a wonderful picture of a kids bedroom with painted wood floors in various shades of blue.  This idea would bring forth a whimsical feel for a room decorated for a child's taste in mind.  Add together a painted chest in orange and painted details in a brighter tangerine.