Paint Sprayer vs Roller: Which One is Right for Your Project
23 April 2025
School Painting Maintenance Plan: Importance, Structure, and Execution
28 May 2025
Best Kid Room Paint Colors
Creating the perfect atmosphere in a child’s room isn’t just about picking a cute theme or fun furniture — it starts with the paint. The colours and finishes you choose have a deeper impact than you might think. Not only do they affect the overall aesthetics of the room, but they can also play a vital role in a child's mood, creativity, behaviour, and even sleep quality. If you’re a parent planning a makeover or a professional painter taking on a kid’s room project, understanding the best kid room paint colors is essential.
This article dives deep into everything you need to know, from child-safe paints to choosing the best paint colour for a toddler boy or girl’s room, and even exploring fun themes like jungle and space.
Why Paint Colours Matter in Kids' Rooms
Children's brains are in constant development. Colours affect their emotions, learning behaviour, and sense of security. For instance:
- Warm tones like yellow and orange promote happiness and energy.
- Cool colours like blue and green support calmness and focus.
- Neutral tones like beige and off-white provide a sense of spaciousness and peace.
According to Painters Link specialists, a well-chosen colour palette can enhance playfulness, concentration, or restfulness, depending on the function of the space.
Best Paint Brands for Kids' Rooms
Not all paints are created equal, especially when it comes to children's spaces. Here's a list of top-rated brands known for safety, durability, and vibrant colour ranges:
Dulux Wash&Wear
Features: Low VOC, stain-resistant, easy to wipe clean
Why it’s great paint for kids room: Specifically designed for high-traffic kids' rooms with safe ingredients and vibrant colours.
Taubmans Endure Interior
Features: Low odour, antimicrobial, fade-resistant
Why it’s great paint for kids room: Its anti-mould and low VOC formula makes it a top choice for bedrooms and play areas.
Wattyl I.D Advanced
Features: Ultra-low VOC, Green Star compliant
Why it’s great paint for kids room: Ideal for kids with sensitivities and parents focused on sustainability.
British Paints Clean & Protect
Features: Durable, scrubbable, kid-proof
Why it’s great for kids room: Easy application with smooth finish, ideal for first-time painters.
Best Type of Paint for a Child's Room
When choosing the best paint for a child's room, consider these key factors:
- Low or zero VOCs: VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are harmful chemicals that can cause health issues. Always check the label.
- Washable and scrubbable: Kids are naturally messy, so go for finishes that can handle fingerprints and crayons.
- Sheen level: Eggshell or satin finishes are ideal – they’re smooth, cleanable, but not too shiny.
Pro Tip: Apply two coats of primer before your topcoat. It helps with adhesion and increases paint lifespan.
Best Yellow Paint for Kids Room
Yellow is a powerful colour for energising young minds. It promotes joy, optimism, and can even improve memory and focus. A great choice is Dulux Lemon Delicious — a soft, pastel yellow that doesn’t overstimulate. For a brighter touch, Taubmans Sun Spark offers a cheerful but not overwhelming glow. Yellow works well in play areas or study corners to encourage a happy and mentally active atmosphere.
Best Green Paint for Kids Room
Green symbolises growth, harmony, and calm, making it one of the best colours for a child’s room. A gentle tone like Wattyl Pale Sage or Dulux Mint Whisper is perfect for soothing bedtime routines while still feeling fresh and modern. Green also supports focus and has been linked with better reading comprehension in children.
Best Behr Paint for Kids Room
If you're using Behr paints in Australia (available via special order or select retailers), consider Behr Marquee® Interior with low VOC and excellent coverage. For colours, Soft Mint, Early Rain, and Sierra Niche are favourites among designers for kids rooms. Behr's easy-to-clean formula and low odour make it a parent-friendly option.
Best Blue Paint for Kids Room
Blue is a classic colour choice for children’s bedrooms, especially for calming bedtime vibes. Try Dulux Baby Blue or British Paints Blue Buoy for a soft sky-like tone. For deeper tones suitable for themed rooms (like a space room), Taubmans Deep Dive is rich yet soothing. Blue slows the heart rate, reduces anxiety, and is ideal for children who are easily overstimulated.
Best Colour for Toddler Boy and Girl Room
Best Colour for Toddler Boy Room
For toddler boys, parents often lean towards blues, greens, or neutrals. But each colour affects children differently.
Top Choices:
Sky Blue or Aqua: Promotes calm and restfulness, great for naps and bedtime.
Leafy Green: Encourages balance, learning, and nature-inspired play.
Muted Beige or Light Grey: Modern, calming and adaptable for changing tastes.
Example:
Ben, a two-year-old in Penrith, had trouble sleeping in a brightly coloured orange room. After repainting it with Dulux Misty Sky, his parents noticed he was calmer and slept more soundly.
Best Colour for Toddler Girl Room
For toddler girls, soft and nurturing tones work well. But rather than going straight to pink, consider these options:
Top Choices:
Blush Pink or Peach: Warmth and comfort without overstimulation.
Lavender: Soothing and supports emotional development.
Mint Green: Fresh and uplifting with a calming touch.
Pro Tip:
Add white trims or soft mural patterns for a layered, dreamy look.
Best Colour for Kids Play Room
The playroom is all about energy, creativity, and imagination.
Recommended colours for kids play room:
- Primary Colours: Red, Blue, Yellow – vibrant and energetic
- Turquoise or Orange: Inspire playfulness and interaction
- Chalkboard Black Wall: Great for creative drawing
Combine Brights with Neutrals:
This avoids overstimulation. Consider a neutral base with bright accent walls or shapes.
Child-Safe Paints
Children are more sensitive to chemicals, so safety is non-negotiable.
What to Look For:
- Low or Zero VOC certification
- Australian Asthma Foundation tick of approval
- Water-based formulas
- No formaldehyde or heavy metals
Themed Kids Room Painting
Themes can spark creativity and make a child feel connected to their room.
Jungle Theme
Effect: The use of leafy greens and nature motifs brings a grounding, earthy feeling. This theme can enhance a child's connection with nature, reduce anxiety, and foster curiosity.
Psychology: Green is associated with balance, growth, and calm. Murals of animals or trees promote imaginative play and a love for wildlife.
Interior Painting for Children's Rooms: Step-by-Step
-
Move furniture
-
Patch holes, sand walls
-
Tape trims and edges
-
Pick low VOC and washable finishes
-
Select colours aligned with mood goals
-
Use rollers for smooth large surfaces
-
Brushes for corners and trims
-
Let paint dry 24-48 hours
-
Ventilate the room
How Paint Colour and Design Affect Kids' Psychology
Paint isn’t just decorative — it's developmental. According to painting experts, your choices directly influence a child’s behavior.
Psychological Effects:
- Blue tones: Slow down heart rate and breathing
- Yellow hues: Increase focus and positivity
- Greens: Help with reading and comprehension
- Red: Increases alertness (use sparingly)
Factors That Influence Paint Decisions:
- Child's temperament and activity level
- Natural lighting in the room
- Size and ceiling height
- Furniture and decor themes
Example:
A Sydney parent chose a jungle theme with muted greens and animal stencils. Her child, who previously struggled with sensory overload, began to engage more calmly with toys and books.
FAQ for kids room paint colours
Final Thoughts
When choosing the best kid room paint colors, you’re not just decorating — you’re shaping a part of your child’s daily environment. Whether you’re a DIY parent or a professional painter, prioritise child-safe paints, calming or inspiring colours, and creative themes. Make it a space where kids can grow, learn, and feel at home.
For help finding a kids room painter near you, explore our Painters Directory or request a quote from Professional Painter for Kids Rooms.
