Renovating is always a good idea, but especially so if you’re a single parent. Not only do you have the opportunity to upgrade your residence and give it a fresh new look, but you can also rethink the whole concept and make your home more kid-friendly. On the plus side, all renovations increase property value so this is really a win-win situation. Here are some projects single dads can have fun with while making their home both beautiful and safe for their loved ones.
Let’s start with outdoor space
Your backyard is the healthiest fun zone for the kids. Of course, you have to establish some safety rules when it comes to playing outside, but there are lots of other safety measures you can take so your kids can have fun, and you can have that peace of mind while they’re out playing. If you have a pool or are thinking of getting one, pool safety should be the very first issue to address. Even though nothing can replace adult supervision, it is advisable to keep doors leading to the pool locked at all times. You might even want to add a door and window sensor for some extra protection, as well as a strong but stylish pool fence. When it comes to desirable property features that can increase the value of your home, pools are definitely in the lead, so the investment is bound to pay off. Additionally, fences are not only meant for pools. Your backyard will certainly get that much-needed facelift with a stylish new fence, which will also prevent both kids and pets from running out into the street and potentially getting themselves hurt.
No Sharp Corners
Kids are always running around – and bumping into corners more often than not. If you feel you could do with some new furniture, choose pieces with round corners that would definitely lower the risk of injuries caused by running into sharp edges. Take some time to browse and you’ll certainly find something that you like and that fits the general design of your home. Bean bags are always a fun choice, the bigger the better. Your kids can sink into this cozy marshmallow without you worrying about them falling, or bumping into it for that matter. Cube storage is also a very practical idea. No heavy drawers to pinch fingers or hit heads when opened – just soft bins that the kids can safely manage themselves and you can easily carry around while tidying up. There are hundreds of designs to choose from since they are ubiquitous and one size fits all. A true time-saver for a busy single dad.
A Safe Bathroom
As children grow, so does their curiosity and desire for independence. Since the bathroom is that slippery place they can easily get hurt at, make it as safe as possible so they can actually do certain things without your assistance. Step stools will help your kids reach the sink so they can wash and brush without standing on their toes or trying to climb it in any other creative way. Secondly, bathing time will be less stressful with some grab and assist bars, so the kids can get in and out of the tub on their own without slipping and falling. However, it wouldn’t hurt to throw on some spout covers to prevent burns and bumps. Keep your medicine cabinet and all other potentially dangerous substances under lock and key to prevent poisoning and injury. If you’re up for some major bathroom renovations and have more than one child, prevent the morning chaos of who gets to brush their teeth first by installing two vanity stations. Double vanities save time so your kids will get ready sooner, which means you won’t be late for work either.
Flooring
Being a single parent means more than just having to manage your kids by yourself. It also means that the financial responsibility is entirely down to you, the father. Without two incomes contributing to the household, there needs to be a more considered approach when it comes to dealing with financial matters.
A potentially significant outlay for any renovation would be the addition of a new floor. As a great budget alternative, good quality vinyl flooring is virtually impossible to destroy, and it makes an excellent long-term investment. It will endure all the furniture dragged across it and last through the kids running around, dragging various things too heavy for them to lift. These types of floors look incredibly realistic and are a much better option than watching your hardwood floor getting worn out throughout the years.
The Hall
Make your hallway kid-friendly by installing coat hooks the little guys can actually reach. It primarily increases safety since the kids won’t be climbing or jumping, risking an injury just to get a coat on a hook. A bench or two with a fixed cushion wouldn’t be a bad idea, as well as some easily manageable storage for backpacks and boots. If you’re a single parent, you’ll definitely benefit from all the renovations which add to your child’s independence, since you can’t keep an eye on them every single second.
The Kitchen
Going over some ground rules in the kitchen is essential, but while the kids are too small to compromise, the safest thing to do is kid-proof sharp edges and make sure the little ones don’t have the appropriate footing to climb the kitchen cupboards. Replace standard drawer handles with rounded pulls – they might be easier to grab, but they are much harder to use as a ladder. A stepping stool or two will come in handy if you’d like some peace while you’re cooking. Kids like to stay close to their parents and help out, so this is a good choice since you’ll be able to keep an eye on them while getting the meals ready.
Being a single dad is hard work; however, a safer home means less stress and more space to spend some quality time with the kids. Furthermore, renovations are always a good investment since they ultimately work towards increasing the value of your property. With each considered renovation project you will be guaranteeing that should you decide to move and upgrade, your family will be that much more financially capable to do so.
