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Transform a playroom
into a space that grows
with the family
Parents typically
make certain
changes around
a home to ensure it’s
accommodating to
children. Childproofing
is a necessity,
but entire rooms also
may be transformed
with children’s enjoyment
and well-being
in mind.
It’s common for
homeowners to set aside rooms for children to play and explore.
These playrooms may initially feature infant swings and
bouncers, and eventually start to accumulate the toys that kids
receive on holidays and birthdays. Easels, building block sets,
puzzles, video games, books, and so much more fi ll these playrooms
where young children spend the majority of their time
engrossed in imaginative play. But as children grow, playrooms
may no longer be necessary. Homeowners can ensure these
rooms evolve with the family, and here are a few ways to do just
that.
Make it a home theater/gaming room
The National Institutes of Health says children between the ages
of eight and 17 spend an average of 1.5 to 2 hours playing video
games each day. It’s important for parents to monitor their
children’s gaming, particularly when kids participate in social
platform games that involve people with an internet connection
chatting and working together. One way to do so is to locate the
gaming setup in a central location, like a home theater room.
Establish a hobby space
Trade in kids’ toys for “toys” that everyone in the family will
enjoy. Turn the room into one where family members can explore
their passions. This may include scrapbooking, painting,
yarn crafts, collecting, photography, and more.
Create a quiet learning spot
As children grow up, they may need to spend more time studying.
Transforming a playroom into a library or a study space can
provide that out-of-the-way spot to get homework and studying
done. Adults in the home also can use it for reading, paying the
bills or any other task that requires concentration and quiet.
Build a home gym
If the space is large enough, bring in some workout equipment
and make the play space one that encourages exercise and fi tness.
You may not even need large equipment and can utilize
interlocking foam tiles that already may be in the playroom.
With some free weights, resistance bands and even your own
body weight, you can perform a number of benefi cial exercises.
Expand your living space
If the playroom currently abuts another room that can use some
more real estate but is separated by a wall, take down the wall to
increase the square footage.
Set it aside for guests
Clean out the toys and bring in a bed and nightstand. Now you’ll
have a dedicated spot for overnight guests to stay, or a room that
visiting older children (and eventually grandchildren) can call
their own.
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