DIY Vanities for Toddlers

Toddlers generally mimic their caretakers, so it is no accident that many of them want to shave like their male caretakers do or apply makeup and brush their hair like their female ones. The traditional vanity is making a comeback, but more often than not grooming and beautifying is done in front of the bathroom or bedroom mirror. Mornings and pre-bedtime are often a rush, but they can also each be a quiet time to spend with your toddler; you can multi-task by grooming yourself while teaching her how to do so and also spend quality time together. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Designate counter space for your toddler. Either clear a portion of your own counter in the bathroom or bedroom for her, or bring in a piece of furniture for her. It doesn't have to be fancy; an end table will do the trick. This can be a good opportunity to re-purpose a piece of furniture; as long as it is at a reasonable height for your toddler, don't worry about its original condition -- you can paint it or add a fabric skirt to it to match your dcor.

2

Add a seat for your toddler to sit in at his designated counter space. It should be low enough for him to get in and out of without your assistance, for toddlers in the older age-range, but high enough so that he can reach the counter space from the sitting position.

3

Include a mirror with your toddler's vanity. Depending on the space, a decorative mirror on the wall is an option, but a smaller makeup mirror could work as well. Also, consider a hand-held mirror, since toddlers are tactile.

4

Provide storage to your toddler. A jewelry box, makeup organizer, or even a toolbox filled with cotton balls, for instance, will keep him busy as you get ready while also giving him a sense of belonging to your routine.