Redesigning for a Purpose

This is our den when it is not being used to host children. This space was designed so that in less than an hour, it can be easily converted into a space to host a child in need. It involves removing and adding some items. (Photos Below) We went with a versatile theme that would be suitable for little boys and little girls that encourages creativity and nature exploration.

Before this space became a den, it was a formal dining room we never used. Today, we use this room all of the time! It's a place we come to relax, hang out in or read. This room was designed with another purpose in mind as well. With a few tweaks here and there, in less than an hour we can easily transform this space into a room to host a child in need.

We are volunteers for Safe Families for Children. We need to be ready at a moment's notice to host a child anywhere from a baby to about age 7. I decided to write this post because I've had people interested in volunteering for Safe Families ask me if they need to have an actual bedroom in their home to host a child. The answer is no. Most of the placements through Safe Families are temporary so you can use an existing space in your home to host a child. Above you can see the room as it looks when we are not hosting a child. I've included some photos below to show some of the details that go into converting this space from a den to a safe place for a young child. It includes the removal of some items you see in the den photo and adding some other items to make it more child-friendly.

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Photo Descriptions (Starting Top Left and Moving Right)

Photo 1: This is what the den looks like when we are not hosting children.

Photo 2: The ottoman stores the bedding and other items for hosting.

Photo 3: We chose versatile bedding that can be used for boys and girls.

Photo 4: Canvas and collapsible container stores toiletries/personal items for a child.

Photo 5: Wooden artwork that also serves as a nightlight. Love the message on it!

Photo 6: Console stores books/decor. All will be removed when child stays with us. Will be used as a dresser for child when hosting. Also used to store children's books.

Photo 7: Teepee provides a cozy nook for children. Folds easily when not in use.

Photo 8: Tree branch coat rack. Fun piece we use to hang cozy blankets on. Can be used to hang clothes, coats, etc. when hosting.

The sofa has a pull out full size bed. Safe Families are sometimes asked to host siblings so the bed will be suitable for more than one child. If we are hosting a baby, we will move the ottoman and place a pack n' play in its place. The couch can serve as cozy spot to snuggle and read to a little one before bedtime.

All of the items we use for Safe Families are not stored in this one room. We have the pack n' play, high chair, stroller, etc. in a closet upstairs.

Thanks for reading!

For more information about Safe Families for Children, visit: https://safe-families.org/