Taking into account how children will use the space is the key to designing an interactive and engaging kids play space. The next step is to create a zone for each function. Most play spaces have a zone for active play, creative expression, relaxation, and storage. These design ideas are meant to make each zone functional and fun. These tips maximize the use of vertical space to fit as opportunities to engage as possible.

Active Play Zone

1. A physical play area encourages movement with a climbing wall,  an indoor swing, or a ladder that hangs from the ceiling.

2. Falls happen. Soft flooring options like carpeting or gel floor tiles cushion falls.

3. Adding a sensory board to the wall gives children another way to engage.

4. Remember to leave empty space for floor play.

Creative Expression Zone

6. Since many little ones enjoy writing on walls,  a wall covered in chalkboard wallpaper gives them a guilt-free place to do it.

7. A magnetic board can grow with the children. As the kids get older, the number and letter magnets can be swapped out for word magnets.

8. It's helpful to have a table in this area for arts and crafts. A table that has a storage compartment for art supplies is ideal. An alternative is having a dedicated basket to store art supplies.

Relaxation Zone

9. For children who read while relaxing, a bench topped with a cushion works well.

10. Installing a tent, fort, or castle is great for little ones who enjoy relaxing in their own secret hideaway.

Storage Zone

11. Toys can go in baskets that are kept in the hollow space under a bench. For safety, the hollow space should open from the front instead of the top.

12. An attractive wicker hamper can store toys that are too large to fit in a basket on a shelf.

Life is getting stressful for those juggling full-time work and parenting under the same roof. Adjusting to working from home while homeschooling requires modifying habits and routines. If this is your new normal, your home space needs updates for these new roles. Some simple tweaks will streamline your space when you don't have a dedicated home office.  

Set Boundaries

To be productive with kids around, parents need to set boundaries in space, behavior, and time. If your home has an open floor plan, create zones for different tasks. Set ground rules on the kinds of activities and levels of noise that are appropriate at certain times.

A large dining table will likely be your new work/school hub. Assign each person their own section and give yourself a nice view out a window if possible.

Examine Your Lighting

Hopefully, your home is already centered around a good lightscape. Keeping lights softer and more yellow will help create a relaxed ambiance. Be sure to layer enough lighting that you don't find yourself dozing though. 

Declutter

Taking a few minutes to organize the main living spaces will boost your productivity and clear mental space as well. Give everything a place that is easy for everyone to keep up with. Rolling carts make for great family command centers. Each person can have their own tier to organize work and school supplies.

Embrace Mood Music

Use smart home devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home to play music throughout the day. Music is an amazing way to set or adjust the mood in a room. Try something soothing when nerves are on edge or an energetic playlist when you need a pick-me-up.

Think Fresh & Green

Fresh plants and flowers have a magical calming quality. Send your kids outside for a garden scavenger hunt. Some colorful clippings in a simple case will brighten everyone's day.

Scent Power

It's called aromatherapy for a reason. Different scents can do wonders for creating a cozy and efficient space. Lean into the hygge movement with glowing candles or wax warmers.

Diffusing essential oils go beyond a pleasant smell with actual health benefits. Lavender is calming while peppermint invigorates. Sweet orange is great for both mood improvement and an energy boost and all three are safe around kids over 5.

Get Better Sleep

To function at optimum capacity from home, get good sleep. Maintain your sleep schedule and bedtime routines even if you don't have to be up at a certain time. Consider that the time you used to spend getting ready or commuting can be a decent quiet time to get started with work.

Let your bedrooms remain work-free zones. Use a humidifier to balance the moisture in the air for better breathing while you sleep. Now is also a great time to invest in quality cotton sheets that will complete the oasis feel of your bed.  

While millions of families are adjusting to spending long days together at home, make the best of your situation and space.