Tuesday, March 1, 2011

“Teen bedroom décor that puts the cool in school”

“Teen bedroom décor that puts the cool in school”

Teen bedroom décor that puts the cool in school

Posted: 01 Mar 2011 05:16 PM PST

  • Originally published March 1, 2011 at midnight, updated March 1, 2011 at midnight

By Kathryn Seber

Education is the one great advantage that parents and society say can be the difference in a child who grows up to be successful from those who don't. Yet in many youngsters' bedrooms, the emphasis is clearly on succeeding in sports, technology or clothes bombs. However, a room that's designed around making education and learning fun - and looks cool - could help make your child more school-focused - and a stronger student to boot.

Emphasizes learning
A room that makes a child creative, inquisitive and interested in learning begins with a room that stimulates those qualities. The starting point is always a place to study. Too few children's bedrooms have a dedicated study space that encourages learning.

A desk is a natural choice, but make sure there is enough room for an open book and to spread out papers. If the desk is only big enough for a computer screen, it's likely that study time will give way to playing computer games. And computers should be carefully chosen. Opt for all-in-one units that take up less space, or for netbooks or laptops that are compact, yet still give good computing power while leaving room for books and papers. Many compact printers are small enough to fit in a desk file drawer.

Accessorize thoughtfully
After clear desk space, a room that's education focused needs a spot to post accomplishments, further reinforcing schoolwork and education. An oversized bulletin board will work perfectly - and give your child a spot to tack up pictures, notes or certificates instead of puncturing bedroom walls. Accessories with an accent on learning are another nice touch.

Maps, globes and schedules are all good choices for inspiring young minds to learn and be interested in school. To make the room even more fun, invite your young scholar on a shopping trip and purchase coordinated desk accessories to make his or her desk area more grown-up and less haphazard.

Arrange studiously
One of the most common traits among successful students is a love of reading. To encourage this activity, create a reading nook complete with small area rug, comfy chair, a bookcase and reading light. This will set the reading scene right and may encourage your budding scholar to crack open a classic or at the least have a comfortable spot to do some assigned reading.

If there's room, and you're handy, build a window seat out of stock cabinets to encourage leisure reading. Install, paint and top with comfortable cushions and you've got a space that's perfect for a long book series.

Think organization and style
Even the neatest of kids can be messy. That's why it's always a good idea to purchase organizers for cabinets, under desks or in drawers. These organizers will help keep all the desk flotsam and jetsam tidy and easier for young minds to find. And don't forget style. A room that's devoted to study doesn't have to be dour or lack flair.

In fact, it's likely to turn off your budding Einstein if it is. Try a play on education themes, such as book classics, sciences such as physics or the environment. Or select historical figures and build on that for the room's theme. Add some punchy color and sophistication into the mix and your young scholar will feel both smart and hip.

Kathryn Weber is a home and decorating columnist and publishes the Red Lotus Letter feng shui ezine. For more information, contact Weber through her website, www.redlotusletter.com.


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