Nursery and Kids' Room Map Ideas: Illustrated Maps They'll Grow Into

A map is one of the few pieces of nursery art that grows with a child. At first it's just colour and friendly animals. A few years later it's where the elephants live, where Grandma is, and where you went on holiday. By school age it's a genuine learning tool on the bedroom wall.

Here are our favourite ways to use maps in a nursery, playroom or kids' bedroom.

For a calm nursery: soft pastel maps

Pastel watercolour world map print in a natural wood frame being hung on a white wall

If you're going for a gentle, neutral nursery, the pastel watercolour world map blends soft blues, lilacs and pinks. It works for any nursery palette and will still look at home in a teenager's room years later.

For little animal lovers: illustrated world maps

Colourful illustrated world map for kids above a desk

Our animal world map fills every continent with animals, while the world map for kids adds landmarks and labelled continents and oceans. There's lots to spot and point at, which makes them perfect for bedtime chats. The illustrated world map has a softer watercolour look that also suits a family room.

For future astronauts: a map of the universe

Framed Map of the Universe poster above a wooden desk

Planning a space-themed room? The Map of the Universe print brings planets, galaxies and nebulas together in one colourful illustration. It pairs well with star-print bedding or a little rocket lamp.

For a bright playroom: rainbow watercolour

Rainbow watercolour world map in a white frame above a wooden desk

For a playroom full of colour, the rainbow watercolour world map gives every continent its own shade. For older kids who want to learn country names, the political world map is clearly labelled and great for a homeschool corner.

A keepsake for a new baby: a birth star map

Framed personalised star map titled Under the Stars leaning on a wooden cabinet

A personalised star map shows the sky on the night a baby was born, with their name, date and birthplace. It's one of the most thoughtful new baby gifts, and the minimalist design sits beautifully alongside an illustrated map.

Tips for hanging maps in a kids' room

  • Keep framed prints away from the cot. Hang them on a wall the cot isn't pushed against, or above a changing table or dresser instead, and always use proper wall fixings.
  • Hang at their eye level in a playroom so little ones can point things out (once they're past the grabbing stage).
  • Go bigger than you think. Kids love detail, and a larger print means more to discover. Our print size guide can help.

All prints are on 200gsm semi-gloss paper, available framed or unframed, with free UK, EU, US & AU delivery. Explore the full Kids & Nursery Maps collection.

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