It's often necessary to have medical equipment and easily accessibility in a bedroom for a child with health issues and special needs. Here are some ideas to create a space that's totally functional,without calling attention to the items that are needed. Be sure to click the highlighted links to look at recommendations.
1. Paint the walls in a color your child likes or helped pick out. Pressing on wall art, can be removed without damaging your walls is super easy and great when you want instant results. These are a safe alternative to hanging pictures. If you can afford one, hire a muralist. If you're creative, DIY!
2. Think of a great position for the bed so it a) it feels interesting in the room, b) looks outdoors, c) has favorite books, toys etc.. within easy reach. I like to angle beds in a corner so shelves can be installed just above the head, and are out of reach yet easy to access.
3) Concealing a mini refrigerator in a nightstand makes access to medicines quick and attractive. You can even make this nightstand a bit higher and add a shelf for medical devices on top. Consider the type of door or drawer closure to make it easy for you to get at but safe for the child. Run cords out the back directly to an outlet. You can re-purpose a piece of furniture for this as well!
4) An organized closet will keep things neat, easy to see and easy to reach. This inexpensive closet system can be expanded or changed to adapt to a child’s needs.
5) Consider roll out containers for toys and clothes under the bed. If you can build/purchase a bed unit that has storage drawers, test them for ease of opening and closing.
6) Keep things at a child’s height. The child should have easy access to light switches, music, door handles, bookshelves and some closet shelves. If possible, have an electrician lower the light switches in the room. Another option: adding an extension handle for about $10.
7) Pocket doors are a nice alternative to swinging doors because they allow access to more of the room’s square footage.This is important with wheelchairs which need a 5 foot turnaround, Be sure the door is at LEAST 36" wide.
8) Add a wall mounted TV to help provide distraction from treatments and therapies. Uses Velcro to attach the TV remote to near the bed for easy access and to keep it from getting lost.
9) Make the bed a safe and comfortable place. Use a hide-away bed rail for children who have difficulty getting in and out of bed. This folding rail slides beneath the mattress when you don’t need it. An elevated headrest will keep a child upright while eating, which will lessen reflux. The design prevents sliding downward, which can happen in a regular bed.
10) Rather than a baby monitor, install a wireless door alarm. A battery-operated door alarm will alert you if your child is at risk of leaving the house or bedroom. About $20 for a pair.