A well-run nursery is like a ship — with a place for everything and everything in its place.

But not all your crew are on board. Interiors stylist Rachel Meddowes gives tips on creating a calm but fun space that everyone can enjoy.

Picture This
Kids love looking at photographs of themselves, so make room for snapshots on a pin board, in frames or on canvas.

Short Stack
Consider your child’s perspective when designing the room: Put mirrors, clocks, hooks and pictures at his height as well as yours.

Off the Shelf
Build a long, deep shelf and create changeable scenes with books, objects and toys. Newborns are mesmerized by black and white things; later try an animal, musical or cultural theme.

Look on the Bright Side
If you hate eye-popping colours but your kids want them, add floor cushions and rugs, paint inside cupboards, line curtains or use fun lamp shades.

Just a few ideas to float around.

For more information about Rachel Meddowes, go to rachelmeddowes.com.

COOK
Pancake Workshop
What: A special Shrove Tuesday batter and tossin’ opportunity for kids ages 4-8.
Why: You’ll flip for it.
When: Tues., 11 a.m.
Where: The Kitchen Parsons Green, 275 New Kings Rd., SW6 4RD (020 7736 8067).

GROOVE
Beatbox Concerto for Kids
What: Beatbox meets the classics with artist-in-residence Shlomo and composer Anna Meredith.
Why: The rhythm is gonna get ya.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.
Where: Queen Elizabeth Hall, South Bank, SE1 8XX (020 7960 4200).

DRAW
Art Workshop
What: Kids flex their guitar fingers with a rock session on Band Hero then create their own album covers with Finlay Cowan, who has worked on record sleeves for Pink Floyd and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Why: Colour me happy.
When: Fri., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Maggie & Rose, 58 Pembroke Rd., Kensington, W8 6NX (020 7371 2200).

Photo: Courtesy of Rachel Meddowes