Our 12year old girls aren’t playing with dolls anymore. They’re still kids, well, mostly anyway. But they’re really in between, that beginning stage of awkward adolescence. I’m a mother to one myself and in the last two weeks she decided to take up karate, and also soccer, and also playing the guitar. This is becoming an almost daily occurrence, living in a perpetual state of “I want to do something new”.
So I was thrilled when I stumbled across “Designing Trendy Tween Rooms for Girls”. I consider myself a modestly creative person. Art, music and literature were staples of growing up in my parents home and I *hope* to provide the same for my girls (Ages 12, 10 & 8) While I believe we are a little closer than most mothers and daughters, apparently, this is the age that the connection takes a little more work. Anything that give me an edge in creating something that really fits her – without breaking the bank every time the wind blows and she wants to “do something new” – is greatly appreciated.
Susan goes onto to say:
Got a Tween? Yea, it’s (mostly) a girl thing.
If she is too old for bunk beds and trundles, then it’s time to ban the bunnies and butterflies from her room. The key is to be adaptable! She’s going to change her mind many times.
What is a “Tween?” This Tween Definition from the Urban Dictionary really nails it:
A girl ages about 9-14…too old for toys, but too young for boys. Very easy to market to, will usually follow any fashion trend set for them, will most likely go through the phase of ‘finding themselves’ as they ‘grow up’.
In other words, they’re a moving target (and hold on to your wallet!). They want to express their individuality, yet also fit in with their friends. It’s a confusing time! Their opinions are driven primarily by pop culture, friends, and hopefully tempered by her family’s values. And they will change their mind more than YOU do.
Fear not! Here are some helpful tips in finding a fabulous design to make your tween happy and keep you sane (within reason)….
Sound familiar?
Adaptable color
Unless you personally enjoy painting, pick a neutral color for the walls. Spice up a neutral base with funky colors for trim, expressive rugs, throws, pillows and dramatic wall decals or murals. Oh, and be sure to opt for a comforter with a duvet.
Here’s a great example of a neutral room that can change on a dime!
Photo source: House Beautiful
Here’s another great example of neutral walls with a splash of electric blue in the bench and chandelier. Keeping the bedding neutral will allow breathing space for a tween’s need for flair AND allow for change. And isn’t that rug fabulous……
Photo source: Apartment Therapy
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My favorite tip? I’m glad you asked!
Idea: Why not just go ahead and paint one wall with magnetic paint as her “flair” gallery – it will at least keep it contained to one spot (maybe). Here’s an interesting use of a magnetic wall for a poster display.
Photo source: Flickr
That is genius. I’ve actually been thinking of changing the guest room into a art/music room:
complete with rock posters, records and concert ticket stubs. The magnetic paint might be the way to go for the posters and ticket stubs.
I might even include a lava lamp. Well, probably not. Then again, the tweens would really like though!
Have any more suggestions to add?
Great tips! I keep the walls neutral but let my daughter accessorize to her heart’s content! I loved the idea of magnetic paint on one walll. Interesting concept!
Magnetic paint- where was this when I was 13? I feel cheated!