As parents of toddlers, we sometimes think that they are too young to decide on things that they like, especially when it comes to decorating their rooms.   Often, we decorate according to our tastes and preferences, forgetting that our toddlers are actually old enough to know what their likes and dislikes are, especially between the ages of two and three.

What you can do:

• Talk with your toddler and explain what you are about to do.  You can tell them that together you will make it look “prettier” or “nicer”.  Use whatever adjective that suits you.

• Give them a choice as to what design they would want.  If you already have a particular design or color scheme in mind, show it to them and ask them what they think.  If they have a favorite character and want to include it in the “design scheme”.  Let them – it’s their room after all.  If their choice wallpaper or mural is too much for you, compromise and say you can let them have the design on their curtains or bedding.

• Let them have a say with what color to paint their walls.  Let them choose the wallpaper, curtains, carpet etc.  At this age they can still be steered towards something practical.

Decorating within a budget

If you have a small budget allocated to your toddler’s room make-over, don’t fret.  There are ways to go about this without having to spend a fortune.  Here’s how:

1. Although paint can be expensive, there are always deals available.  Research online and google paint brands/DIY Stores and go to their respective websites.  If sales are not on yet, big supermarkets that sell paints also do great discounts.  Be patient when scouring the net.  Finding a great deal will be worth all that hard work.
2. Wallpapers can also be expensive, but again do your research online and try to find the best deal.  If your choice is still expensive – or if your toddler insists on having a wallpaper of their favorite character – do a feature wall by only putting it on one wall.  This will save you money and it won’t overwhelm the room too much (character wallpapers sometimes can do).
3. Only change your carpet or flooring if absolutely necessary.  However, like paint and wallpaper, deals are always there just waiting to be found.  Buying a small area rug will also give your child’s room a new make-over without having to change the entire floor.
4. Never buy anything that you can make, especially if you can make it with your toddler.  Wall art is always better when it’s home-made anyway.  Just be creative with the kind of frames you use or how you arrange them on the wall.

Yes, decorating with your toddler may prove to be a headache especially once they turn whiny and clingy.  But the pros outweigh the cons, especially if it means that the whole experience will encourage your child’s creativity.  Perhaps the most important plus of all is the time you will spend with them, strengthening your bond.

Sarah Stone is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about education, career, motivation and resume writing. CV templates is where she collects best cv writing practices and templates.