How many times have you tried to simply sit down in your bedroom and rub your temples, trying to relax and clear your head so that your headache will subside, only to be interrupted by the pitter patter of little feet following you into the room? Do you find that your children invite themselves into your bedroom, either to talk to you or simply to play? Your bedroom should be the one room in your home that belongs completely to you, and this means being able to guarantee silence within the room should it be required. How can you "kid-proof" your bedroom and turn it into an escape from the watchful eyes of your children?
First of all, you simply need to be firm with the rules. Lay down the law that there will be no toys, games, puzzles, videos, or other distractions in your bedroom. The children are not allowed any kind of play in there, and there are to be no exceptions. There are plenty of other rooms in the house where your kids can run around and make noise. In fact, you probably have a separate playroom for your children that is just for such nonsense and have arranged your kids' bedroom sets so that there is plenty of room for games and toys in their own room.
Second, teach your children manners and respect. Whether the door is closed or not, your children should not enter your bedroom unannounced. The best way to let their presence be known is to knock, of course, but even speaking from the doorway to make you aware that they are there is a good start. Children should ask permission to enter their parents' room, and as the children get older, you as the parent can return this courtesy on most occasions to show that you appreciate their maturity in the matter.
While it's okay to have a television and a computer in the bedroom, you should make sure that all "family" activities are maintained outside this little haven of yours. For example, if you have a video game system sitting out in your room, how can you expect to keep the kids out? And if the computer in your bedroom is the only computer in the house, it's time to find that computer a new home. There is no need for children to be completing homework assignments in your room when they could do so comfortably in the den while you relax in your own room. Also, make sure that your bedroom is furnished in an "adult" way, avoiding a wooden canopy bed or some other novelty item that will fascinate the children.
Cribs should be moved out of your bedroom, and children should not be allowed to sleep in your bed if you ever want to have any modicum of privacy. Just because you have king bedroom furniture doesn't mean that the whole world is invited to share the space. Having children sleep in your room is a bad habit and turns into one of the most difficult situations to correct.
Finally, make sure your children also understand that you get tired, sick, and angry. They should understand that you have feelings just as they do, and sometimes you need to be able to take care of yourself. This is a concept that can be understood even by small children when put into simple terms.
by: Ben Weissman
Ben Weissman writes articles about Affordable Wrought Iron Beds, Discount Bedroom Sets and Interior Design. You'll find more Decorating Ideas at Home-and-Bedroom.com.