What Should Parents Consider When Designing a Child's Bedroom?

Quick answer

Prioritise safety (cordless blinds, anchored furniture), a dark and quiet sleeping zone, a comfortable temperature and a calm wind-down area. Keep screens out of the bed.

Key points

Safety. Cordless blinds, anchored shelves and a bed height suited to age.
Sleep zone. Dim, quiet and cool; blackout helps early mornings.
Routine. A consistent bedtime and calm activities.

Safety

Cordless blinds, anchored shelves and a bed height suited to age.

Sleep zone

Dim, quiet and cool; blackout helps early mornings.

Routine

A consistent bedtime and calm activities.

Frequently asked questions

Night lights?

A very dim amber light is fine.

TV in the room?

Better not.

Sources

Hirshkowitz M, et al. National Sleep Foundation's sleep time duration recommendations: methodology and results summary. Sleep Health 2015;1(1):40–43. PubMed

Links go to PubMed searches for the paper title or to the official guideline or regulator page. Standards and regulations are revised, so check the current edition before relying on them. Mattress and pillow research is limited; treat findings as a starting point.

Reviewed by Dr. Nimmy Rajkumar (MBBS, MD)2026-10-31 · Our experts and review process

Keep reading

Guide

Sleep by Age and Life Stage: Children to Older Adults

How sleep needs, mattress and pillow choices and bedrooms change for babies, children, teens, pregnancy, menopause and older age.

How to Choose a Mattress for Children

A medium, well-fitting, breathable and washable mattress for children, with infant safe-sleep guidance.

How to Choose Curtains and Blinds for Sleep

Blackout fabric, side channels, mounting and safe cords for bedroom window coverings.

Sleep Environment Considerations for Teenagers

Teens need about 8 to 10 hours; support them with a dark room, a phone-free bed and a consistent schedule.

This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have persistent pain or sleep problems, please speak to a doctor.