Blending Child Safety and Style II

Don't put out breakable accessories on low tables and shelves within reach of the children. Remove all glass. Use wood instead: wood figurines and sculptures. Artificial flowers. You can still have decorative accessories down low, just make sure they are unbreakable and harmless.  Artificial plants in baskets are a great way to decorate in areas where children might be active and you don't need many to "fill" the space full.

Fill low shelves with books shelved neatly and closely together (packed tightly).  They look attractive but are not the type of thing that interest children too much and are not breakable.

Put away all candles or at least put them up high.  Hide or lock up the matches.

Accessorize the yard with plenty of solar lights, especially around entries, for added security.

7. Is it possible to still get style with practicality? If so, please explain.

There are many, many furniture choices that are very practical because they serve a purpose that is more than decorative:  chests, armoires, shelf units, entertainment centers and so forth.  These give you added storage and that is always a good thing.  They also give you a way to store toys easily and keep them out of sight when not in use, yet handy.  Parents should teach children how to get them out and, more importantly, how to put them away.  Style is not just about "shape", but includes cleanliness and organized spaces.

Use window treatments that are washable: cotton, metal, plastic (blinds and verticals). Keep it simple. It's contemporary and very So. California and helps protect children.  Children are easily bored, so the more simple something is, the more obvious it is, the less they will be attracted to it.

PVC furniture is great for small children's rooms. It's inexpensive and practically indestructible.  By using bold colors, you get plenty of style together.

Designate specific areas for playing and specific areas for homework. If you are good about those types of rules, your kids will follow your lead. This helps immensely with keeping the home neat and stylish.  My rule was that all messes were banished to their bedrooms where the door could be closed.  Parents must use reasonable discipline (not punishment) to control the usage of the space. My children were rewarded with points or coins for keeping their rooms clean and orderly, starting with the bed.