When furnishing your nursery, the first key piece you can buy is a convertible crib. A convertible crib can convert from a crib, to a toddler bed, to a daybed and then to a headboard and footboard for a twin or full size bed. By spending more for a convertible bed, you are eliminating the need to buy a toddler bed, then a larger bed later on.

Another important item for your nursery is a changing table. You can spend several hundred dollars on a changing table that your child will use for a few years or you can invest in a piece that your child can use for many years to come by buying a solidly build dresser and changing pad. Many nursery collections now include dressers that have a two level top with one side acting as a changing table and the other level as a place to place wipes and lotions. Two other key pieces are a small bookcase and a toy box with a safety hinged lid.

As your child reaches preschool age the convertible crib can now be a used as a toddler bed or day bed, and the changing table can be used solely as a dresser. The small bookcase can display pictures of family and friends and the child's favorite storybooks or you can place small bins on the shelf to hold small toys, puzzle pieces or doll clothes.

Once the child reaches the tween age, which is generally between ages ten and thirteen, you can convert the toddler or daybed into a twin or full bed. The book shelf will come in handy to hold books, trophies and other favorite items. The toy box can be used to hold sports equipment, board games or blankets and pillows for a sleepover. At this age you may want to add the next piece to you collection and that would be a desk. If you child has his or her own computer, you want to buy a desk that is sturdy enough to set a computer on.

During the teenage years, you can take the key pieces and add more storage items, a comfortable chair for reading, more shelves to display awards, accomplishments, trophies and other accessories.

When buying furniture for children, remember to think in terms of how pieces can be re-used for different purposes. Shopping smart for kids furniture from birth on allows you to get much more for your money over the years.