A child's room is truly his or her castle. In this space the beginnings of learning evolve, and what is experienced through all the senses will most likely be seen, smelled and felt here.
Parents think long and hard about what furniture to buy, how to decorate, and what toys, books, puzzles and stuffed playmates will enhance this environment and enrich their child's first years. These choices will differ according to culture, how many children are in the family, available space and budget.
Today's eco-conscious parents have even more to consider. Much has been learned about the impact of manufacturing on our lives, and the business of producing safe, practical, well-designed furnishings and toys for children tops the list.
When it's time for you to prepare a room for your child, there's lots of information to guide you. In your own neighbourhood, seek out stores that are eco-responsible. Find out what they know about how their children's products are made and how the design meets with today's safety standards. Visit home shows and check out websites. The internet is an invaluable aid, and you can source items that may not be available where you live.
At a recent design show I discovered Simply Green Baby (www.simplygreenbaby.com), a company that is all about thoughtful, practical kids' products. The Sparrow Crib by Oeuf caught my eye. The slim side rails and spindles give the crib a light, airy feeling. It's made with solid birch and Baltic birch plywood, and the finishes are non-toxic, water-based and VOC-free. There's also a changing station that fits securely across the top of the crib, which can later be transformed into a toddler bed.
Simply Green Baby's classic wood push-toys are made from sustainable wood products and are non-toxic. Dolls and stuffed toys, such as Viola the adorable brown rabbit and knit blocks that jingle and rattle, all meet and exceed safety standards.
Another innovative company, Three Pears, has created The Bobbin Triple Play Centre. It grows with your child from a baby play centre to a toddler activity table with chalk top, and then to a table-and-chair set. The first stage is for babies who can hold their head up but are not sitting or walking yet. The leather seat swivels 360 degrees, encouraging baby to move and explore within the Bobbin.
Three Pears offers toys specifically designed for developing skills and all meet environmental and safety standards.
What's underfoot or under baby is another interesting story. Tiptoe Rugs is the creation of textile designer Alyssa McMurter, who wanted a simple, inviting, natural floor covering that was durable enough to withstand the rigors of childhood use. Made from industrial strength felted wool, these rugs are flat, don't pill or pull, are naturally stain-resistant and easy to maintain.
Tiptoe rugs are custom-made in a full range of bright colours, including fuchsia, lime green and purple, and are designed with three distinctive edges -- scallop, castle and zigzag. Visit www.alistar.ca to see the whimsical selection and contact the designer.
These are just a few of the amazing companies and products that can help you create an inviting, happy and safe space for your child. What a special gift they all are.
Debbie Travis' House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. You can follow Debbie on Twitter at www.twitter.com/debbie_travis, and visit Debbie's new website, www.debbietravis.com.
