When your child becomes a teenager they will inevitably want to make some changes to their bedroom. As well as clearing out non-fitting clothes, they may well want to get rid of childhood toys or pass them down to a younger family member. Although these developments can momentarily fill us with a pang of regret, we have to accept that they are growing up – it is their life now and the days of Spiderman and Peppa Pig are over!
So, changes to reflect their new older and physically larger selves are needed. Firstly, the basics: A new and properly comfortable bed will be required – after all a five foot nine thirteen-year-old cannot fit into a bunk bed any longer! Where they can and budget allows – many parents use this opportunity to buy a double bed so that they can properly stretch out and this is something your child will really appreciate. Investigate storage beds either with drawers underneath or even a lift-up bed with space for luggage, hockey sticks, spare bedding etc. This will be worth its weight in gold.
A headboard so that they can read comfortably in bed is important and I would recommend a protective liner cover for the duvet to guard against spills. Many bedding companies sell these including Soak and Sleep.
With curtains, I suggest either going for floor-length or getting a roman blind. It is better to opt for plain or a design with longevity as these are investment pieces and will outlast your teenager’s current tastes. A desk and comfortable chair are important as your child will be sitting their GCSEs before you know it. If the room is becoming a little crowded now, consider a glass desk. Not only does it look cool, but as it is transparent, it will visually take up less space. You can get corner desks in glass too. A wardrobe, bookshelves and laundry basket are all essential too. If you get the storage right, there is more chance of a tidy bedroom.
If space allows a sofa bed for sleepovers would be useful, saving that, a blow up mattress is a good standby. Don’t forget to install a full -length mirror which in addition to making the room look bigger, is appreciated to check their look. Lastly, a practical hook on the back of the door for the bathrobe will save it from landing on the bed.
Now for the fun bit. Take a deep breath and let your young person choose the rest! This could be a dark and moody wallpaper on every wall or just behind the headboard if it is a particularly bold colour or design. If they are very interested, they may like to create a mood board on Pinterest or keep photos on their phone of ideas they see. Try and be tolerant of the more ‘out there’ ideas – they will not want these things forever and as these things are only superficial, the room can be returned to normal in the future without too trouble. Ideas include decals, funky lampshades, LED lighting strips controlled by Alexa, a wall of photos, a mirror with light bulbs around it, a rack of skateboards, posters or whatever they fancy.
Lastly, help your teenager realise their plans. So often, they suddenly run out of steam or can’t be bothered to complete it, so be encouraging and last the course with them. The end result will be worth it and if it is their idea, they will be more motivated to look after it and appreciate it.