Fung Shui: Bringing Joy & Wonder Into the Baby's Room

Those celebrity babies have got it made. Their parents fly-in famous decorators, fashion designers, and feng shui gurus to create nurseries that are to die-for.

You're so jealous you could spit on their thousand-dollar crib bedding.

But honestly, you can design an inspired room on a budget. Borrowing a little from feng shui and a lot from the creativity of cost-conscious Mamas, below are ideas for filling your nursery, and child, with joy and wonder.

DRAW IN PLEASANT VIEWS

What could be more pleasant than staring at your baby? Watching him stare in awe at himself and his surroundings:

  • Hang a mirror low, at a child's eye level.
  • Frame pictures from children's books for instant, affordable art. Buy books at garage sales for pennies.
  • Decorate the ceiling. Paint clouds, stamp shapes or stick glow-in-the dark stars so Baby has something fun to stare at.
  • Glue or screw blocks or other toys to dressers in lieu of drawer pulls.
  • Write a favorite quote on the wall. Use stencils, or do it free-hand using paint markers for an easy, personal touch.
  • Cover a closet or door in magnetic paint. Decorate with fun magnets, and let baby "re-decorate."

CLEAR AWAY THE CLUTTER

Creative energy flows best if it's not tripping over tchotchkes:

  • Bundle stuffed animals, toys or artificial flowers together with ribbon and use them to tie back curtains.
  • Hang wire cables and miniature clothespins for an orderly, rotating display of baby clothes, baby cards and, later on, children's artwork.
  • Look for toy shelves and bookcases that are low to the ground, for an uncluttered view and easy access.

CREATE GOOD MOVEMENT

Hang objects that bring good energy and suppress negative vibes, and your baby will go with the flow:

  • A live green plant stimulates positive energy.
  • Wind chimes bring good fortune without costing a fortune.
  • A ceiling fan gives good airflow. Plus babies love staring at them, especially when they're cranky. Choose one that's colorful or whimsical and it will double as a mobile.

Most of all, have fun creating your baby's room. She'll feel that joy when you're in there with her. And she'll never know you didn't hire her a decorator.

Ease baby's adjustment from womb to room with the charming Hampton Crib. It has a pleasant form and equally pleasing function, with height adjustable mattress support and easy-slide drop sides. And it easily converts to a toddler or day bed, so your child can live in harmony for years to come.