Shared Bedrooms – 3 Golden Rules That Help Toddler and Baby Stay Happy Together

Are you worried about your decision of shared bedrooms for your toddler and baby?

Your first born has taken his first steps towards independence, and you've decided to welcome another little baby. If your second baby is due while you are still potty training and running after your first, you are allowed to feel overwhelmed.

Decorating the nursery is always a fun experience...as you have the liberty to do what you want with it. However, if the idea is of <b>shared bedrooms for both, your toddler and baby</b>, there will be some key points you need to be aware of.

Relax and ease those palpitations. Decorating a space that is equally appropriate for both baby and toddler can be a wonderful experience. All you need to do is Remember these Three Golden Rules for shared kids room design.

Golden Rule 1: Make the Room Safe

1. Safe for Baby – If you plan to re-use your first-born's baby crib, check it for any damages and wear or tear. Invest in a good baby monitor to help you keep track of happenings while you are out of the room. A mosquito net helps keep the bugs out, and stops your toddler from throwing toys in or climbing in himself. Your baby will soon start copying his older sibling. All toys bought for the toddler must be baby safe too.


2. Safe for Toddler – Whether shopping for a toddler or twin bed for the shared bedrooms, pay special attention to the safety rails. Remember, he can now reach new heights. Even the décor hung or kept at baby safe distance now need to be moved farther away. He can climb onto the rocking chair – keep it away from the windows and keep the windows barred when you leave the room.

Golden Rule 2: Make the Room Bright, Cheerful and Lots of Fun

1. Fun for the Toddler – He has had everything to himself...until now. In the midst of the excitement of the newborn, don't let him feel neglected. Include him in the decorating process. Make it a fun adventure, buy some new furniture pieces for him – a small table and chair set are a perfect fit. Fun accessories will make the room a place your toddler would love to spend time in...and reduce any resentment towards the new baby.


2. Fun for the Baby – A soft area rug that defines the baby space (and another for the toddler of course) can be chosen in the theme for the room. Giving the space 2 distinct looks for each of the occupants in the shared bedrooms, gives each a personal sense of belonging – their own private space. To create harmony between the two themes a common kids mural can be painted or stuck on.

Golden Rule 3: Solve Conflicts in a Cool but Firm Manner

1. Calming a Cranky Baby – Babies will cry...especially when they need their sleep. You should talk to your toddler and explain his responsibilities as an older sibling. Don't expect him to understand and obey at all times though. If he doesn't sleep on time, either during naptimes or at night, let the baby sleep in your room. Once they are both asleep, shift the baby to his crib.


2. Calming a Cranky Toddler – Used to being the center of your world, the toddler can get quite irritable when he wants attention but you are busy with the baby. Expect some ups and downs as both kids try to settle down and adapt to the new situation. Keep your cool and keep persevering...the kids will eventually learn to enjoy each other's company.

The trend for young children to share bedrooms (a common trend in many countries around the world) is gaining popularity here in the west. Children not only adapt quickly to each other, they grow closer and enjoy a deep bond that later physical separation also cannot break.

So go ahead and chalk out your plans for that lovely nest to be shared by your toddler and baby...and as the bumps begin to smoothen out, you will see your kids spend more time together and soon leave you in peace (and planning your next baby, perhaps?).