Let's start at the top - the ceiling. Painting a ceiling is a relatively easy way to change any room's appearance. You may want traditional white paint to match or coordinate with the walls, go for a contrast, or use one of the many different techniques available today. Get creative - it's not that difficult to paint over if you make a mistake. You might want to try hand painting wispy clouds on a sky blue ceiling. Or for more drama, how about stenciling gold stars and a moon on a midnight blue background. If painting's not your thing, there are tons of wallpaper choices to give the ceiling a different look and texture. Also attaching fabric, straw matting or even lattice to a ceiling will add interest and a personal touch. Acoustic tile is something you might want to consider, especially if noise is a problem. Planks, as with wood floors, add a certain charm and warmth to a room. Adding beams or moldings (either real or faux) might give just the right touch. If you're handy you may want to do it yourself or you might want to hire a professional. It depends on your budget, time and experience.

Walls - probably the largest surface of a child's bedroom. There are many options to choose from here as well. Paint, wallpaper and paneling are probably the most common, and the easiest way to accommodate for the child's age, needs and interests without breaking the bank. It's a good idea to keep in mind ease of cleaning and durability when making your choice. For example, if you like wallpaper, vinyl would be a good choice because it is washable. Also, patterned wallpaper is a good disguise for less than perfect walls. It comes in a myriad of styles and colors. Paneling or wood plank walls are another option that is both durable and versatile for a child's bedroom. The prices range greatly in this category, but will last practically forever. Painting the walls, probably the least expensive way to decorate a child's bedroom is also the most versatile. Color, type of application and special effects are limited only by your imagination. Once again, if you make a mistake, simply paint over it!

Flooring or floor covering - generally flooring is a hard surface such as wood, tile, linoleum etc., while a floor covering would be a material such as an area rug or wall to wall carpeting. Almost any type of flooring or floor covering is suitable for a bedroom. You are limited only by your taste and pocketbook. Of course, ease of cleaning as well as comfort and durability are important considerations when choosing a floor for a child's bedroom. For practicality many people select one of the hard surfaces available for easy upkeep and then soften the look with an area rug or scatter rugs. Just make sure they have non-slip backings or are anchored down to prevent accidents.

Windows - while providing a focal point for any room may need more coverage in a bedroom for privacy and room darkening purposes. Shades, blinds, shutters and curtains either used separately or in combination, are some of the most popular choices for window dressings. All are available in a wide range of material, colors and styles. It's very important that before you purchase shades or blinds to have accurate measurements. This can be a rather expensive mistake, so follow directions carefully or have an expert take the measurements for you. Also, keep in mind safety factors such as keeping cords, etc. out of reach of small children. Other options for treating windows in a child's room could be the use of frosted or stained glass (either real or an inexpensive variation). If you don't want to cover the window, painting or staining the molding around it to match or contrast with the walls will give the window an entirely new look.

Lighting - when choosing lighting for a child's bedroom, think first of safety and then decorate for fun. Lamps are available in many styles, colors and themes. For small children, there are many unbreakable types. Of course, keep cords out of reach and sight if possible. However, never lay a carpet over a cord - this could be a fire hazard. Proper lighting that is not too bright so as to prevent glare is important for computer/homework areas. There are many specialty bulbs available such as one's with a back up filament - if the first one burns out the second one continues to work. Some have programmable chips that dim the bulb over a period of time. Be careful of halogen bulbs which can become hot - make sure they are surrounded by a guard. Use only bulbs that are recommended by the fixture's manufacturer. It's also a good idea to provide a nightlight with a built in sensor, and a wall mounted flashlight for emergencies.

Choosing furniture for your child's bedroom. Of course, the age of the child is probably the most important consideration here. For an infant, some parents start out with a bassinette or cradle, while others may want to use a crib. Just make sure they meet all safety standards. This information is easily attainable. Other items needed for a baby's room might be a changing table, dresser or chest of drawers, toy storage and perhaps a rocking chair or other sitting area for tired mom or dad. Whether purchased new, used, handmade, or handed down, safety is the first factor. Sharp corners, loose hardware, or improperly fitting mattress are some things to look for. Once that is taken care of, have fun choosing a theme or color that you feel your baby would enjoy. For an older child's bedroom you may want to include a night stand, a sturdy size table and chairs (for those very important tea parties or crafts), and more storage for the ever increasing supply of toys. Teens would appreciate a desk for homework, an entertainment center, a dresser with a mirror or a vanity table. The selection of these items depends upon things that you might already have, the size of the room, your and your child's taste, and of course your budget.

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