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Gifts

It’s a Cinch

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009

invisibelt_bowbones.jpgYour pint-sized fashionista is putting up a fuss. There’s no way (NO WAY!) she’ll spoil the sleek look of her favorite outfit with an ugly, bulky belt.

To the rescue: Invisibelt Girl, a scaled-down version of the revolutionary Invisibelt, a clear, flat-buckle fastener that’s nearly undetectable under form-fitting tops. The new smaller-sized cincher features the same sturdy support, easy adjustability and notch-free construction as the original, but this inch-wide wonder extends from 20 to 38 inches in length, making it appropriate for girls — and possibly even a few bold boys — ages 4 to 16.

Best of all, unlike the grownup style, it’s served up in a range of fresh colors (neon pink, sheer grape) and cool designs (skulls with bows, purple peace signs) that can be worn exposed or concealed — a bonus that will surely win over even the most belt-skeptic tot.

Available at invisibelt.com.

Friends First

Monday, June 22nd, 2009

moon-rabbit.jpgLike many city dwellers, Little Rabbit had it all, but she was a bit lonely.

But in Moon Rabbit, a story of newfound friendship by Scottish author Natalie Russell, she encounters a kindred spirit during a day at the park. Her brown bunny pal is the companion she was wishing for, and anyone with a BFF will relate this gentle picture book with a loving message.

Friendship is golden.

Available at penguinputnam.com.

It’s a Keeper

Thursday, June 18th, 2009

beekman.gifMost modern baby gear is cute and practical, but hardly worth holding on to.

For something more meaningful and lasting, check out the baby collection from Beekman 1802, a 200-year-old upstate New York farm turning out artisanal soaps and linens. Handmade 100-percent pure cotton swaddling cloths and bath blankets are woven by an award-winning master weaver and available in four colors inspired by historical dying techniques. An 8×8 inch washcloth is also hand-loomed and features a waffle weave for absorbency and softness. Pair it with the farm’s baby soap (a six-pack of chemical-free goat’s milk bars laced with soothing calendula to calm delicate skin) for a unique shower gift.

Heirloom-quality construction makes these linens keepers that can be passed down from generation to generation — and offers a far better legacy for your wee one than a onesie.

Available at beekman1802.com.

Toys Are Us

Wednesday, June 17th, 2009

automoblox.jpgRemember Slinkys, Pixie Sticks and Silly Putty? Chances are your kids don’t.

Reintroduce them to the classics — and some spirited newcomer — with the selection of super toys at Aunt Jean’s Toys & Treats. The Montclair, New Jersey shop opened an online outpost that carries a hand-selected assortment of playthings that appeal to any child. Opt for the Automoblox, doll houses, French wood blocks or plush sea turtles (toys are grouped by age, from infant to tween).

Inspire a little imagination.

Available at auntjeanstoys.com.

Creature Feature

Monday, June 15th, 2009

creature.jpgDon’t let rain ruin the next beach day — turn the afternoon into an adventure.

Creature, a series of large-format floor puzzles, comes to life thanks to New York-based photographer Andrew Zuckerman’s animal portraiture. A sturdy briefcase-style package holds four 16-piece puzzles featuring bold imagery of elephants and tigers and gorillas (oh my!). It’s best suitable for ages 3 and up, but sure to become a family affair.

Available at chroniclebooks.com.

The Memory Keeper

Monday, June 8th, 2009

babybliss.jpgYou kindly volunteered to throw a baby shower for your best friend/college roommate/sister-in-law. Now what?

The best keepsake of her special day is the sentiment. Baby Bliss in a Box is filled with cards for guests to write down their fondest wishes and homespun parenting advice (36 cards for a day-of shower activity plus 12 fold-and-mail cards for friends and family who cannot attend). The mom-to-be keeps the box as a memory and re-read the words of wisdom again and again after the baby is born.

Now that’s bliss.

Available at randomhouse.com.

Sling State

Thursday, June 4th, 2009

sling.jpegThe sunshine says summer, but your baby sling screams winter. That black canvas carrier won’t feel so comfy come July. Humidity plus an infant strapped to your chest equals…oh forget it, you’ll just stay inside.

Update for the season with Serena & Lily’s new peacock-inspired sling. This collection features vivid, multicolored crewel embroidery reminiscent of its beautiful namesake. The sling itself is made from one seamless piece of organic cotton without buckles, belts or straps — it’s snug, sleep and easy to wear. It’s a breeze.

You’ll be walking as proud as a peacock.

Available at serenaandlily.com.

American Beauty

Monday, June 1st, 2009

kisha.jpgWhile the idea of all-American good looks now extends far beyond the blonde-haired and blue-eyed, diversity can still be hard to find. Sometimes you’ve just got to take matters into your own hands.

New online shop Kisha’s Kids operates with the mission to fill children’s surroundings with images of kids who actually look like them. The concept comes from founder Kisha Holt, who became frustrated after not being able to find brown-skinned faces on decor for her own kids’ rooms. Contemporary and vintage-inspired accessories and toys, many of which are exclusive to the site, range from original area rugs illustrated by artist Lizzy Rockwell to giclee clocks featuring old-fashioned cars. Kids of all backgrounds will relate to the playful images, like fairies and fire trucks, that reflect their ever-changing worlds.

Available at kishaskids.com.

Off the Wall

Thursday, May 28th, 2009

mrtpainting.jpgA fairy mural might look nice, but Sonny and Cher is more your speed when it comes to a quirky kid’s room.

Mr. T, Andy Warhol, Spock and Joey Ramone are just some of the people painted by artist Seana Corcoran, who creates these hipster portraits after her three children go to bed. The original artwork, done in fun, bright colors, grow with a little one and blend from crib to big bed.

Plus it’ll teach him about who was cool in your day.

Available at lumalum.com.

Sincerely Yours

Tuesday, May 5th, 2009

ruvacards.jpgYour kids spent an hour at the drugstore searching for the perfect Mother’s Day card for Grandma — and came up empty handed. Canned greetings just don’t make the kind of creative statement they’re after.

RUVAcards helps children express themselves with personalized stationery featuring their own artwork. Send a digital scan (or the original piece via snail mail) and they will match the colored dots to customize a stationery set. Plus, the inside holds the artist’s information, so she’ll never be end up undiscovered.

Available at ruvacards.com.