One mom in the UK spent a full week transforming her seven-year-old daughter’s bedroom, only to discover that the toughest critic had been taking notes the whole time. Sarah, 32, documented the project on TikTok, showing everything from peeling off old wall stickers with a steam cleaner to making the space feel brand new. It was the kind of makeover that usually ends with a satisfied sigh and a celebratory before-and-after shot. Instead, it ended with a brutally honest review written on her daughter’s iPad.
Sarah said she loves DIY projects, and her daughter Sofia typically enjoys helping. But when the family first moved into their home, Sofia was too small to be part of the bigger jobs, which left her waiting for her turn. While Sarah tackled other projects around the house, Sofia kept asking when her room would finally be next. Eventually, they set a clear deadline and aimed to have it done by Christmas.
The changes were more than cosmetic. Sofia moved out of the smallest bedroom and into a larger one with wooden floors, a switch that made sense for her hobbies and love of art. The old carpet had been a constant source of frustration, especially because Sofia likes everything to feel neat and just right. Sarah said they went out together to choose new furniture, and the final decisions were all Sofia’s. Sofia had her heart set on a wardrobe inspired by Belle, and when Sarah found a vintage-looking option that fit the vibe, it was an instant yes. Sofia even helped paint the room, making the makeover feel like a shared project rather than something done to her.
@imtheproblem Well, I guess she needs to speak to the manager. Mum life for you.
♬ QKThr – Aphex Twin
Then came the plot twist. After a week of work, Sarah found what she called an 18-item list of things that still needed fixing, a surprisingly detailed critique focused on the finishing touches. Sofia also messaged her grandmother, Helen, asking for an escape plan because the room supposedly had the wrong vibes. In another moment that made viewers laugh, Sofia attempted to write “shambles” on the screen but ended up with “shambols,” still getting her point across in her own way.
Sarah took it in stride, saying Sofia has very high standards and never hesitates to share how she feels. The attention to detail made the family laugh until they cried, and the video took off, pulling in more than three million views. Commenters loved Sofia’s honesty, especially the dramatic messages to her grandmother, and one person joked that there should be a word for when your child impresses you and hurts your feelings at the same time. Despite the rough first review, Sarah said Sofia does love her room now, mostly, and she wants the freedom to fix the parts she still doesn’t like herself.
What would you have done if your child left you a renovation checklist like Sofia’s, and would you laugh or cry first? Share your thoughts in the comments.
