Planning a child's bedroom

Your baby's bedroom should be a safe and comfortable environment for them to grow into and make their own. How then, do you make it so?

Beds

Although cots make practical beds from birth, new mums may prefer to start their new-born off in a Moses basket, as the strong handles allow babies to be moved easily and therefore kept close to mum or dad.

A traditional, swinging crib on the other hand, can be useful for soothing babies to sleep.
It is widely held that cribs are not suitable for children beyond four months, since this is usually when a baby will start to become more active and will require a larger cot.

Cot-beds, which are larger than standard cots and have removable sides, are an economical choice for the next step, since it won't be long until the child is strong enough to climb out of their cot.
To help young minds develop, cot mobiles can encourage learning through play, and decorations such as wall stickers and border friezes are not only attractive but can act as educational tools, helping your child to learn numbers and the alphabet.

The cot-bed can be transformed into a junior bed when the child is ready, usually at around two years, giving maximum longevity.

Junior bedsteads also make great first beds for toddlers. Lower than normal beds and with side-rails for safety, they also fit the mattress and bedding used with the cot previously - another economical investment.

Furniture and Decoration

Your child's room will not be designed solely for them, though - after all, you'll be spending a lot of time in there in the early years as well.  A chaise chair, sofa or day-bed in your baby's room will be useful for those inevitable night-feeds.

Having plenty of storage will not only be practical for you - ensuring baby wipes and nappies are always to hand - but will encourage toddlers to keep their room tidy as they grow up too. Shelves, boxes, units - the options are endless.

As baby becomes toddler and the room becomes their own, a small, child-sized bean bag or soft seat may be an attractive option. Child-sized tables and desks can help limit mess to one area and tend to be very easy to clean - unlike adult furniture.  

Safety

When your child becomes a toddler, they'll have you running around after them and there are some simple ways to reduce accidents and stay safe.

Try using a changing mat on the floor to help avoid accidental slipping.

Wardrobes, bookshelves and other tall furniture should be secured to walls to prevent them from falling over on your child and make sure to keep drawers closed and glass lamps and ornaments out of reach.

Everything is a toy to young children, so avoid curtains and blinds with cords, which carry a risk of strangulation, or tie such cords so they're out of reach. Installing locks on windows is also a good idea to protect your child as they become more mobile and explorative. And safety plug socket guards are another worthy investment.

John Lewis stocks a wide range of furniture and furnishings, including a variety of cots, beds, tables, sofas, storage solutions and frieze borders.

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