If you have a basement in your home, or a planning on building one, it can be tempting to make it a grown up part of the house. Perhaps you are thinking about installing a home movie theater or a bar? However, if you have your own children, or have kids come over to stay, it is worth thinking about the basement as creating the perfect child friendly space.

Making your basement a day space for younger kids will mean their noise is contained and they are encouraged to stay away from places you might prefer them not to be, like your study. Most kids like the ideas of a space they can call their own during the day time. And a basement can always be converted back to an adult room without too much hassle.

Play Space.

For the perfect child friendly basement allow for lots of floor space that can be used for play. Don’t fill your basement with sofas and chairs. Try not to break up the space with storage closets and cabinets.

Avoid the temptation to make it a second living room. If you do have soft furnishings, place them at the side of the room. Keep your kids’ toys stored in a single place. Make one corner of the room a toy store and allow your children to select what they want to play with and encourage them to use the available space by fitting a child friendly carpet or rug.

Children Zones.

If your basement is not to be a dedicated child play space, then allocate an area of it to be a child friendly zone. For instance, set aside a space where they can reach their books and toys easily and give them a height appropriate table and chairs.

If it is possible, allocate a space that has its own color scheme and even install a set of drapes so you can afford them some privacy, whilst still being able to monitor what is going on. Guest children will really feel at home if you have some fun letters that spell out their names when they arrive.

Adventure Areas.

Give your kids a sense of adventure in your basement, especially if during the winter months playing outside is not practical. Install a climbing frame or a child swing so that younger children can build up confidence with their motor skills in a safe environment. A couple of soft mats beneath an adventurous climbing zone are always a good idea. Encourage their imaginations, by making a dedicated play house where they can act out their ideas, and where you can still eep an eye on them.

Older Children.

If you have children or grandchildren that have outgrown toys and play zones that are designed for youngsters, it may be time to update your design. Basements still make the perfect place for teenagers to hang out in, so simply give it a make over for a trendier, youthful look if your kids are growing up. Install a workstation, or two, so that your teenagers can work and study in a bit of privacy, whilst still being in a social environment. Alternatively, set aside your basement as a hang out pad where your kids can listen to music and even put a band together.

Sports.

Turn your basement over to a sporting zone for your children. Basements are great place for honing a few hockey skills. Older children will love the idea of space that is designed to encourage their sporting prowess. Table sports, that you can fold away, are ideal for basements. So, even if you are a big kid yourself, a child friendly basement may be the design that suits you the most.

Picture sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.