Selecting Kids Light Fixtures for Bedrooms

Kids light fixtures should add to the theme of the room, but they need to be very functional and safe.  

Think Function

When picking light fixtures, you need to keep in mind the purpose of a kids room. Kids need good lighting to finish homework or read. You may also want to have a dim light for winding down to go to bed. Buying different fixtures is the best way to achieve the brightness the child will need. Go with a ceiling fan with a light fixture for the brighter light. This serves two purposes: cooling the room, and providing a bright enough light for studying. For a dimmer light, go with a nightstand table lamp. Put in a low watt bulb and you will have a relaxing ambiance. The nightstand light should have a switch that can be turned on and off from the bed, so the child doesn't have to get out of bed. For younger children, night lights are a great way to give enough light to find a restroom when it's dark.

Safety

If your child is still at an age where power outlets and wires are appealing, be sure to take the proper safety measures when plugging in your lights. There are several precautionary measures you can take. The hardware stores have a section dedicated to child safety. Be sure to check it out. They sell outlet covers, that cover exposed outlets and cases that cover the lights you plug in. They sell light switch extenders, so the child can turn on and off their light without having to climb on something to do so. They even sell shatter proof light bulbs. They sell child proof night lights as well.

Be Creative

Keep with the theme of the room, even down to the light fixtures. If you are having a hard time finding a lamp that will compliment your scheme, buy a plain one and make it work. You can buy an extra pillow case in the kids bedding. Cut it into the lamp shade shape and hot glue it on. You can also visit a craft store and buy patches to decorate. Buying a plain shade will save you money and then you can customize it to fit your design. If that doesn't appeal to you, go with a solid bold color that will compliment the colors in the room. You could do a search for specialty lighting. For example, if you are doing a baseball room , you should be able to find a bat lamp base with a ball shade, but it may take some searching. If creativity isn't your thing, you can still stick with the theme. Most stores sell the coordinating lights with the bedding. If you get stuck, you can always stick with the set.