How to Connect With Your Inner Child Through Decor
I was recently featured as an expert for Rent.com, you can find a preview of the article below and the full article here: How to Connect with Your Inner Child Through Decor!
Connecting with your inner child is about rediscovering the joy, wonder, and creativity that may have been tucked away over the years. What better way to channel this than through your home decor?
Whether you’re personalizing a rental home in New Orleans, decorating an apartment in Raleigh, NC, or creating your dream home in Chattanooga, TN, this guide will help you embrace your inner child through decor. With expert tips and playful ideas, you’ll discover how to design a space that feels safe, joyful, and uniquely yours.
The power of nostalgia: Decorating with cherished memories
Nostalgia is a potent tool for connecting with your inner child. Incorporating elements from your favorite childhood memories can create a comforting and joyful environment. “One way to start [this journey] is by closing your eyes and envisioning a moment from your childhood when you felt genuinely happy,” Melissa Carman, Ph.D., LMHC, owner and clinical director of CNY Mental Health Counseling details.
“Recall the colors, textures, sounds, and even smells that surrounded you. Use those memories as inspiration to create a space filled with warmth and joy — soft pastels, cheerful yellows, or calming blues can evoke those feelings. Add nostalgic touches such as a favorite childhood toy, whimsical artwork, or a cozy nook where you can reflect or dream. Decorating in this way not only sparks happiness but also creates a safe space that reconnects you with your truest, most carefree self.”
You don’t have to go overboard; subtle touches like patterned wallpapers reminiscent of your childhood bedroom, a curated collection of retro toys, or even a nostalgic gallery wall can make all the difference. “One way to honor your inner child is by creating an “Inner Child Gallery.” This can be as few as four pictures at different stages of your life up to many pictures of different ages,” Amber Tolbert, founder of The Healing Collective suggests. “Creating a collage or gallery wall to honor your past self and all the versions of yourself is one way to create space and compassion for the wounds we continue to heal as adults. Although we may not always be able to speak our story, pictures remind us of those past self-versions and the courage it took to just be.”
Sal, with Gallery Canyons, echoes the power of photographs when connecting with your inner child. “Curated photography themes can spark nostalgia and joy. For example, vintage Americana and classic car prints transport you back to playful days and childhood toys. Travel prints, meanwhile, evoke cherished memories of family adventures, from scenic road trips to iconic destinations, creating a space that connects with your inner child.” These personal touches not only add character to your space but also serve as daily reminders of simpler, happier times.
Primary play: Infusing primary colors
Primary colors — red, blue, and yellow — are staples of childhood imagery. These vibrant hues evoke a sense of playfulness and innocence, making them perfect for finding out how to connect with your inner child. Use them boldly or sparingly, depending on your comfort level.
“Your home should be a sanctuary for your inner child. Think about the colors that bring you joy – perhaps sunny yellows or calming blues,” Mak Lin, lifestyle and medical writer with Ceritamak shares. “Don’t be afraid to incorporate elements that spark happy memories, like a childhood teddy bear, a Lego figurine, or a collection of books. Ultimately, the most healing spaces are those that reflect your unique personality and create a sense of comfort and security – just like a warm hug from your inner child.”
For instance, you could opt for a bright yellow statement chair, a red and blue geometric rug, or a set of mismatched chairs painted in primary shades. These colors can also appear in artwork, throw pillows, or even kitchen utensils. The goal is to create a lively and spirited atmosphere that sparks joy.
Decorate without a specific style
One of the most liberating aspects of healing the inner child through decor is the freedom to break traditional design rules.
You don’t need to adhere to a specific aesthetic or worry about trends. Instead, focus on what makes you happy. “Decorating can be a powerful and fun way to express your (truest) self. By creating a space that reflects joy, imagination, and safety – whatever that means to you. We can see it in people’s homes – artsy, whimsical, playful, and colorful decor allows the owners to bring that same sense of wonder and creativity that they probably had in childhood,”
Psychotherapist and wellness coach, Wendy Matheka explains. “And the minimalistic homes healed those who came from visually cluttered homes with people who were probably hoarders. Either way, the way you decorate your home gives your inner child permission to feel seen and celebrated and transforms your environment into a sanctuary where your younger self feels nurtured and free to express themselves.”
By letting go of rigid design principles, you allow your inner child’s imagination to take the lead. “Many homeowners love the idea of incorporating color into their spaces but hesitate out of fear it might feel too bold for an ‘adult’ home or worry they’ll grow tired of it over time,” Richa Sinha of This Decor Mom, details. “As a result, they stick to neutral tones as a safe choice. But why not start small? Add a touch of fun and whimsy by painting the inside of your closets — like coat closets or linen closets — in a bright, unexpected color. Your home can maintain its neutral palette while surprising your guests with a delightful pop of color every time they open a door.”
Of course, embracing your inner child through decor is easier said than done—it takes courage to break free from conventional design norms and embrace what truly brings you joy.
“Decorating for your inner child can be so healing, but it requires some honest reflection. In this day and age, we’re often told what’s “trendy,” but that might not fit your personal style at all,” Delaney with Dark Roast Copy explains. “Realizing that every photo I saved on Pinterest was full of old-world charm, rich jewel tones, and dark aesthetics was the first step in decorating more authentically. I even went out of my way to make some items I couldn’t find in a typical decor store (do I need a miniature gold-painted skull for my office? Of course, I do). Start by pursuing the small things that light you up, then you’ll feel more comfortable taking risks with your decor.”
Shop smart
Look for affordable decor items at thrift stores, flea markets, or even your attic. Sometimes the best treasures are ones you already own, like old hobbies or pastimes. “I love recommending to clients to have some of their favorite creative outlets on display, so they can easily access them and tap into their inner child connection. It could be an instrument, a set of paints, a craft like diamond art, or knitting,” Emily Smith, career embodiment coach and author of Wholeness Within recommends.
“Include some decor items in your home that remind you of what brought you joy as a child. It’s amazing how something as simple as a mug shaped like your favorite animal, season, or character can really heal your inner child by expressing this part of you. You can also add a framed photo of an illustration from your favorite childhood story. My favorites are either ‘Le Petit Prince’ or ‘Where the Wild Things Are,’ ” Smith concludes.
This is the work I support clients with in corporate workshops, my group program Flourish, and my 1:1 program.
