Why I Said Goodbye to Bright Plastic & Built a Calm, Creative Nursery Instead

There’s a moment in every parent’s journey when your living room turns into a rainbow explosion of plastic. For me, it was the day a toy piano that lit up and played the alphabet and sang the wheels on the bus moved in permanently.

At the time, my kids were small, and I thought: Is this what play has to look like? Does colour = fun? Does noise = learning?

Turns out, the answer was no. And what started as a visual rebellion against clutter became the foundation for how I now design children’s spaces — for calm, curiosity, and connection.

1. I swapped colour overload for soft, earthy tones

Children don’t need chaos to be engaged. In fact, I found that a calmer space helped my kids focus better, play longer, and unwind faster. Out went the neon plastic. In came soft blues, warm wood, a few leafy greens. Think linen floor cushions, wooden stacking toys, and a calming art print or two.

Want to try this?
Start with just one corner — a reading nook with natural textures and a framed alphabet print in soft tones like this one.

2. I chose toys that did less — so they could do more

Wooden toys don’t talk, flash, or beep. But they invite children to imagine, narrate, build, and experiment. That’s the kind of play that matters — not just for creativity, but for emotional regulation and problem-solving too.

A few favourites that still live in my house 15 years later (perfect when grandkids come along!) :

• Grapat loose parts (for open-ended play)
• Wooden alphabet  and jigsaw puzzles
• A handmade pull-along fox I can’t bear to part with

I’ve curated a pinterest board full of wonderful sustainable, beautiful wooden toys here, if you're looking for inspiration.

3. I learned that fewer, better things really are enough

I used to think “more toys = more enrichment”. But actually? Less was more. Fewer, more beautiful things got more use, sparked more wonder, and brought a sense of peace to all of us — especially me.

Now, through PaperPaintPixels, I create alphabet prints and nursery art that fit into this kind of home. Homes where everything has a story. Where learning feels organic. Where beauty and curiosity live side by side.

So, what does this mean for you?

If your home feels chaotic...
If your child’s toys are loud, bright, and everywhere...
If your soul craves a bit of quiet...

Start small. One shelf. One toy swap. One print.

Build a space that reflects your values, not just your child’s birthday list.

And if you want a starting point?
I’d love to show you the prints I’ve designed for parents just like you — calm, natural, and made to grow with your little ones.

Shop Calm Alphabet Prints

PS: Want more like this?

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