How to create the perfect teenage retreat in your backyard
Do you ever feel like your teenagers are taking over your house?
Even just a little bit?
Maybe just one room, or a little bit of every room?
There is a solution! You can have your space – and your sanity – back in a few quick easy steps!
Enter the Teenage Retreat. (applause). A new trend is emerging for teen-friendly spaces where your children can both spend time alone and hang out with their friends. The perfect space for teens to relax.
Here are 5 key guidelines for creating the perfect Teenage Retreat:
A motivated, happy teenager (and a better life) are just a few clicks away.
1. Get your teen involved
“The aim is to create a space they love spending time in” says Kate Abdou from Kate Abdou Design. “Teenagers are stepping into their independence and they are maturing, so it’s a good idea to give them some input – within reason, of course.”
Having your teenagers input will make them feel valued and appreciated, and it will also invoke a sense of ownership – it becomes their little space, so they know they have to look after it!
2. Keep it separate
As your teenager develops into adulthood, a natural desire for independence will make them seek their own space.
A teenage retreat that is separate from the house is the perfect answer to this.
By giving your teen their own retreat, you help to foster the sense of identity and independence your teen will need as they transition into adulthood.
“Technology will nine times out of 10 be at the top of the list, but the space could also include comfy furniture to chill out in” says Kate.
It’s important to ensure that your teenager’s retreat will be funky enough for your teen to enjoy spending time in, yet functional enough to suit a wide variety of activities.
By using clever ideas such as a fold down desk, and a chalkboard wall you can achieve a great-looking and workable space that will suit kids of all ages.
Add a chalkboard wall to your teenage retreat to create a great-looking and workable space that will suit kids of all ages. Photo credit: Ryan Wicks Photography via Houzz
4. Establish guidelines for use
As with any new privilege given to your teen, it’s important to set out what they can and can’t do.
Think about establishing rules regarding food and drink (perhaps include a mini kitchenette?), cleanliness, and time restraints.
Reaffirm that this is their space and you have created it for them, so it’s their responsibility to look after it.
Consider adding a mini kitchenette like a Cookpod Unit to your Teenage Retreat.
5. Motivate, encourage and inspire!
When it comes to schoolwork and study, a little motivation can go a long way.
Get your teens to help you choose their favorite motivational posters and quotes to display on the wall near their study space.
Another study-enhancing idea is to create charts and reward systems to display and track their results.
Also, make sure you display their past successes (trophies, medals, certificates) in their space – because, admit it, you’re proud of them too!
Get teens to choose their favorite motivational quotes and posters to hang around their workspace. Image Source: bestfriendsforfrosting.com
So, parents, are you ready to claim your space back?
Ready to create the perfect Teenage Retreat that will make you the Perfect Parents of your Teenager?
Adding a backyard cabana, cubby house or garden shed to your property is one of the easiest and most effective ways for you and your kids to create the perfect teenage retreat.
To discuss your own Teenage Retreat plans, please call 1300 MELWOOD. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you and answer your questions!
We recommend you visit our Display Centre at 312 Falcon St, Neutral Bay NSW. We are open from 12pm – 4pm, 7 Days.
