A new TikTok trend is making families everywhere pause and think about their home dynamics, sparking conversations about “living room families” and “bedroom kids.”
“Living room families” are those who gather in communal spaces, where a lived-in, cluttered room becomes a warm symbol of closeness. For “bedroom kids,” the retreat to their rooms is about privacy, safety, and comfort. This trend has struck a chord with families everywhere, inviting us to consider how shared and private spaces shape our emotional well-being and family bonds.
In one viral TikTok with nearly 25 million views, TikTok creator @alexxx1915 points to the beauty in a messy living room—seeing the clutter as a reflection of connection and family togetherness. It’s not about a picture-perfect home; it’s about the life and love that happen in it.
Why this trend speaks to us
This viral conversation is like a window back into our own childhoods. Did you grow up in a “living room family,” where everyone crowded around the TV with snacks and laughs? Or were you a “bedroom kid,” retreating to your room for peace and quiet?
For many parents, the trend has them looking at their own cozy clutter with fresh eyes. Suddenly, that pile of board games in the corner isn’t just stuff; it’s a reminder of togetherness. And for those who were “bedroom kids,” there might even be a hint of nostalgia—and maybe a bit of “What if?” in wishing for more time in shared family spaces. Those little, unplanned moments really are the ones that stick.
Finding the sweet spot between togetherness and alone time
Not every family fits perfectly into the “living room” or “bedroom” mold. Some families thrive in lively, shared spaces, while others find peace in solo time. Let’s be real: even the most dedicated “living room family” needs a little escape from “family time” now and then! It’s more than okay to have both shared spaces and private retreats.
Psychologists often talk about the value of finding that balance. Dr. Carl Pickhardt, a psychologist who studies family dynamics, suggests that communal spaces like living rooms support bonding and connection, while private spaces give kids a “power place” to express independence. He notes that this balance—time together and time alone—helps kids build resilience, whether through social interactions or self-reflection. This approach lets families create a home where everyone feels supported, whether they’re unwinding together or taking some well-deserved personal time.
Spaces for bonding (and breathing room)
- Create a cozy family corner. Try a designated area in the living room with blankets, board games, and a “movie night” box full of treats. Little touches can make shared spaces feel inviting without any pressure to participate.
- Set “open-door” times. Try an hour or two each evening for family time, and let everyone retreat to their own spaces afterward, creating a natural rhythm between connection and privacy.
- Add some flex space. If reading is a big deal in your family, a little reading nook in the living room with comfy chairs can let everyone feel present. For younger kids, a cozy spot nearby lets them play or read independently while still feeling part of the family hub.
The bottom line
The “living room families” versus “bedroom kids” trend reminds us that there’s no one-size-fits-all for family dynamics. It’s not about everyone piling into one room or isolating in separate corners. It’s about creating a home where each person feels seen, safe, and connected—whether that means gathering for movie night or curling up in a bedroom nook.
So, were you a “Living Room Kid” or a “Bedroom Kid”? Or maybe you were like me, with your own “kitchen table club” (all the best snacks in one place! 🙋🏻♀️). However you grew up, this trend gives us a fresh way to think about what it means to make a space feel like home for everyone.
