We all remember our childhood homes. As moms we have the opportunity to create a space that is not only the backdrop but also part of the experiences. For kids it can go past just being pleasant to feeling magical.

When designing a space it is good to view it from the kid’s perspective, get on your knees and see how differently you see the space. It will influence the design, even where you hang the art to having built in stools at vanities and such. Think through the activities and functions, the kids will be performing in the space, reading corners, play area with storage for toys, nooks that can magically turn into anything from a castle to a grocery store.

Kids rooms don’t need to be over designed or thematic. In fact keeping a looser design, still well done, with interesting colors, textures, and patterns and of course scale creates an environment that has a positive emotional response. Its better to have a design that becomes a platform for your children’s imagination versus it laid out in a theme specifically. You can use interactive finishes that allow for input such as touch or white board, chalk board paint, or metal wainscot with magnets for display.

Design is a powerful tool that can be used in creating an amazing experience for your family.

Interior Motives, Inc was founded by Anita Lang, a member of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for over 17 years. She has been recognized with 24 ASID Design Excellence Awards over the past seven years. As well as the Designer of Distinction Award in 2008 for the work her firm does within the community. As an extension of her philosophy of the power of good design, IMI’s Inspire Foundation, a nonprofit 501(3)(C) corporation was created to benefit local community organizations as well as nurture young design talent. For more information, visit www.interiormotivesaz.com.

What comes to mind when you hear a ” Bundle of Joy?” A precious little newborn perfectly wrapped in a cozy blanket? In an effort to help you and baby Get Comfortable, presented below is Swaddling. Learn why mothers for centuries have wrapped their babies as well as how to swaddle your baby from doula, Forrest Redford-Burke.

Swaddling is an incredible tool to help your baby sleep better and therefore help you sleep better. It can keep him from being disturbed by his own startle reflex and most importantly, it can help to calm your baby. It is thought that being tightly wrapped gives a feeling of security, similar to being in the womb.

Use a blanket that is large enough and with a little stretch. To swaddle your baby, lay the blanket on a flat surface and position him with his head across the corner. Wrap snugly from one corner side around and under the baby. Wrap the other side around and tuck. Swaddling can generally be used for the first six weeks of life but it depends on your baby.

Forrest Anee Redford-Burke is a Doula: a birth and postpartum assistant, educator, and companion. She made a choice to pursue her certification through both Doulas of North America and the Childbirth and Postpartum Association because she feels passionate about mother, babies, and families getting the optimum support during this very special time in their lives. She believes that it is her job to help families thrive and not just survive and has dedicated her life to this purpose. Every mother deserves the perfect support she needs to have her baby through and into loving empowerment. Start your new life with your precious newborn with all the loving support you deserve. For more information, visit www.motherdivinedoula.com.