WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – With a growing family-oriented consumer culture, the next great credit union branch convenience could be including kids spaces in the design.

According to design/build experts, a kids waiting area is a great way to keep children occupied while parents' carry out transactions-transforming the credit union beyond just another errand stop to more of an experience to be enjoyed by the whole family. Ideally the kids' "center" should be away from the front of the branch, but within viewing range of the member service area so parents can keep an eye on their children. In addition, credit unions need to decide if the space will be an educational destination where children learn about finance or if it will be more of an activity center designed to keep children entertained.

From scaled furniture, vivid graphics and colorful shapes to whimsical themes or more sedate settings, the possibilities for a kids' area within the branch are limitless. So pitch a tent, incorporate a "kids' teller" and fun imaginative images, set up the children's "library" or hit the play button on a DVD player-but get those kids interested and they could be the ones insisting their parents make a trip to their local credit union. Here is a look at few standout kids' areas designed by design build firms DEI, HTG Architects, EHS-Design and NewGround: