Bunk Beds & Loft Beds: Sharing a Kids Room

Separating lofty ideas from the bunk

Kids often sleep better when they're not alone, especially little ones. Living in groups also socializes kids better, preparing them to work well as adults in those little office cubes. There are plenty of good reasons for kids to share a bedroom, not to mention that your house and herd may leave you no choice.

Divvy up the territory

If European countries can coexist in tight spaces, so can your kids. The key is clear boundaries, a little privacy, and a few basic manners.

Start with the bed itself. Allow each child to customize the bed space a bit, to make him feel like it's his. Bunk beds are a natural because they separate kids while saving space. Another strategy is to arrange beds so that headboards are together, so kids face away from each other. It also cuts down on the late night chatter. Loft beds are a blessing in shared rooms. Like any animal, being up high helps your little monkey feel in control, calming frayed nerves. And the desk space below feels like it's his too, providing a comforting sense of ownership and privacy. If you have room, help them define their own space with other furniture too, even if it's just a beanbag chair. Armoires and room screens make great territorial markers even in a small room. Assign a wall to each child for his own posters and awards. Having a private space helps a lot when you're trying to get over your mad.

Monsters under the bed

Ninety percent of fights start with, "Who took my." By providing plenty of storage space, you can eliminate much of the kindling for these firestorms. Kids aren't inclined to pick up after themselves, but just watch them do it when they're protecting their loot from someone else. Captain's beds and storage beds provide built-in drawers and cabinets, using space under the bed normally reserved for monsters.

If you're lucky to have children who share an interest, carry that theme throughout the room. Race cars, gymnastics, music, football: the more you decorate the room with what makes them happy, the more they'll feel cooperative. Look over our kids theme beds to find the perfect one for your team.

Age old wisdom

If you can, pair children of like age. They get along better, and they're learning the same social lessons. Decorating is a whole lot easier too, because a student loft bed with a study desk looks a little odd next to a purple Barney bed.

With a little planning and forethought, your shared bedroom can be the hotbed of great memories, fodder for future stories shared around the holiday dinner table.