Olympian (Percy Jackson and the Olympians)

There’s no sugarcoating that we’re entering into another season of wobbly back-to-school situations. Some families are returning to a “normal” routine; others need to follow a more hybrid approach—but either way, home most definitely continues to be at center stage in this ever-evolving plotline. It’s the place where everything happens (cue the full range of emotions and hormones).

The silver lining? This gray zone we’re living in can still be made functional and even fun with a few updates—from quick additions like fort-friendly floor cushions and a rainbow-hued pegboard—to bigger projects in the form of an indoor slide or trapdoor beds that can double as a trampoline on rainy days.

During the past year of overseeing Domino Kids and launching our weekly newsletter (sign up here!), I’ve encountered countless thoughtful ideas—like a teen’s DIY bunkhouse that’s built right on the foundation of his old playhouse; a storage cabinet that flips Narnia-style into a homework zone for twin sisters; and a mom’s total overhaul of her family rental on a shoestring budget. Because, as parents know, innovation is born of necessity, and there’s nothing like a pandemic to make you get very creative with your space.

There’s no sugarcoating that we’re entering into another season of wobbly back-to-school situations. Some families are returning to a “normal” routine; others need to follow a more hybrid approach—but either way, home most definitely continues to be at center stage in this ever-evolving plotline. It’s the place where everything happens (cue the full range of emotions and hormones).

The silver lining? This gray zone we’re living in can still be made functional and even fun with a few updates—from quick additions like fort-friendly floor cushions and a rainbow-hued pegboard—to bigger projects in the form of an indoor slide or trapdoor beds that can double as a trampoline on rainy days.

During the past year of overseeing Domino Kids and launching our weekly newsletter (sign up here!), I’ve encountered countless thoughtful ideas—like a teen’s DIY bunkhouse that’s built right on the foundation of his old playhouse; a storage cabinet that flips Narnia-style into a homework zone for twin sisters; and a mom’s total overhaul of her family rental on a shoestring budget. Because, as parents know, innovation is born of necessity, and there’s nothing like a pandemic to make you get very creative with your space.