DailyCandy Kids Boston

Virtual Festivity

2009-11-19T09:30:00Z

Paperless Post Digital Holiday Cards

To: Santa@NorthPole.com
Subject: My Wish List

Dear Santa,

I wanted to send you my wish list by mail (FYI, I want a BB gun). But Dad’s trying to save money and be green. He’s even e-mailing our holiday cards through Paperless Post, a digital custom greeting card company.

Before you deliver my present (a BB gun), you’ve got to see these cards. I helped my parents design them. We uploaded a family photo (I got braces!) and picked fonts, colors, and virtual paper stock and embellishments. We provide the recipient list; Paperless Post e-mails the greetings whenever we want. Cool!

Hope you’re well,

Jimmy Stockings

P.S. Did I mention the BB gun?

To: Jimmy@Stockings.com
Subject: Re: My Wish List

Dear Jimmy,

I’m well as can be. Elves are hyper; sleigh’s polished; I’m freezing my tits off. I’ve heard of Paperless Post; they did Blitzen’s holiday cards within minutes, and an order of 300 cost less than $30.

Stay good,

Santa

P.S. You’ll shoot your eye out.

Available online at paperlesspost.com.

25% off Velvet & Tweed
Have a holly, jolly, and altogether dapper holiday with timeless special occasion threads. As a present to you, the company’s cutting prices site-wide (that includes sale items). Use code candy25; good thru Dec. 19.

Photos: Courtesy of Paperless Post; Courtesy of Velvet & Tweed

Tune Up

2009-11-17T09:30:00Z

Renee & Jeremy "C'mon" CD Launches

Beep beep! All aboard, munchkins!

This is your minivan entertainment director, Captain Noogie. We’ve got a packed carpool today, so fasten your safety harnesses, sit back, and enjoy the ride.

For your listening pleasure, we’ll be blasting Renee & Jeremy’s just-released C’mon. Even parents can’t get enough of the L.A. duo’s alterna-pop layered with guitar, drum machine, and joyful vocals.

Kicking things off: “Share,” a bubbly ode to giving. Go ahead and clap your hands. Get down with that singer-songwriter groove.

Now let’s slow things down with the dreamy “BFF.” Like a lullaby on a summer night, isn’t it? We’ll round our final bend with the all-out dance riot “Do Do Do Do.” That’s right. Feel it.

Is that finger snapping in row two? And air guitar?

Strum, baby, strum!

Available online at reneeandjeremy.com.

25% Off Bajo Toys at Oompa
Just how low can Bajo prices go? Stock up on natural wood playthings like old-fashioned push and pull toys, cars, and puzzles. Enter code DC2009 at checkout; good thru Nov. 19.

Photos: Courtesy of Renee & Jeremy; Courtesy of Oompa

Rainbow Bright

2009-11-16T15:00:00Z

Colorwheel Collection Boutique

Remember Roy G. Biv? No, not the jock you diddled in college — the colors of the rainbow, silly.

Find a dazzling arc of items at Colorwheel Collection, the Roslindale children’s boutique that opened quietly in September. The welcoming space carries indie-designer accessories and clothing (Hoosier Magnolia onesies, Not So Plain Jane barrettes), plus hard-to-come-by gifts.

Don’t leave without browsing the handmade memory books and scrapbooks crafted by local company Proof.

It’s like finding a pot of gold.

Colorwheel Collection, 4266 Washington Street, Roslindale (617-312-1783). Holiday gift preview, Thursday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

SEE
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
What: Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy, and the gang explore everything from baseball to friendship in this musical production.
Why: Good grief, it’s good.
When: Fri. & Sat., 7 p.m.
Where: Watertown Children’s Theatre, Arsenal Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown. Tickets online at brownpapertickets.com or 800-838-3006.

EXPLORE
Owl Prowl Adventure
What: Learn about owl calls, behavior, and habitats while you seek out the screech and great horned species.
Why: It’s a genuine hootenanny.
When: Sat., 4-5:30 p.m.
Where: Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick. Registration (required) at 508-655-2296.

SNOOZE
Family Overnight
What: Observe sea creatures, participate in ocean-themed activities, and sleep in a jellyfish exhibit.
Why: Sounds like fin.
When: Sat., 7 p.m.
Where: New England Aquarium, Central Wharf (617-973-5206).

Photo: Courtesy of Colorwheel Collection

Nest Friends

2009-11-12T09:30:00Z

Green Lullaby Dollhouse and Cradle

There’s a Barbie tea party in the hallway, Disney fairies hide in the dishwasher, and the living room looks like a Bratz convention.

It’s a doll’s world; you just live in it.

Miss Priss’s little friends get a place of their own with My Green Dollhouse and My Green Dollcradle from Green Lullaby. The new portable toys are made from ultralight recycled cardboard and can be assembled or broken down in a snap (Skipper road trip!).

The three-story dollhouse holds its own as a chic nursery decoration, with rooms adorned with retro illustrations of furniture, lamps, and the like. The cradle comes with a mini mattress and rocks any space with a modern floral design.

The only thing missing is more hours in the day to enjoy them.

Go figurine.

Available online at abesmarket.com. For more information, go to green-lullaby.com.

25% off Bajo Toys at Oompa
Just how low can Bajo prices go? Stock up on natural wood playthings like old-fashioned push and pull toys, cars, and puzzles. Enter code DC2009 at checkout; good thru Nov. 19.

Photos: Courtesy of Green Lullaby; Courtesy of Oompa

Steer Factor

2009-11-10T09:30:00Z

Early Rider Learner Bikes

You’d like to keep your munchkin swaddled in her car seat until college.

Sorry: You have to remove life’s training wheels someday. (Le sigh.)

Start slowly with an Early Rider learner bike, a Euro invention that just arrived stateside. The clever contraption turns traditional learning-to-ride philosophy on its head by teaching tykes to balance from day one.

The idea is simple: The lack of pedals forces kids to propel themselves with their feet. As their sense of stability develops, they’ll walk, scoot, then zoom.

Begin with Lite, a smaller model suitable for those 20 months and older, then graduate to the more robust Classic (ages 2 to 5) or Evolution (ages 3½ to 6) styles. When it comes time for an actual big kid’s bike, there’s no teary, knee-skinning transition.

So you get the brake you deserve.

Available online at tykerider.com. For more information, go to earlyrider.com.

25% off Anka Mini Furniture
Everyone’s got a seat at the high-quality birchwood table set that includes four chairs made for mini bottoms and one stool for an adult-size rear. Choose from natural, honey, or espresso finish. Enter code DCMini at checkout; valid thru Nov. 12.

Photos: Courtesy of Early Rider; Courtesy of Scandinavian Child

Plant One

2009-11-09T15:00:00Z

"Rose's Garden," by Peter Reynolds

The Big Dig inspired a lot of colorful language, none of which you’d share in polite company.

But good things came from it, like the Rose Kennedy Greenway. So you won’t have to bite your tongue when reading Rose’s Garden, the children’s book dedicated to the Kennedy clan’s matriarch.

Author/illustrator Peter Reynolds (who worked on the Judy Moody books, among others) gives us a sweet tale about the adventures of a girl who collects seeds from around the world. She discovers a lonely patch of Boston ground, settles down, and starts planting.

You can guess the ending.

Everything comes up roses.

Available at The Blue Bunny, 577 High Street, Dedham (781-493-6568 or dedhambluebunny.com).

DANCE
The Nutcracker Ballet Day
What: Boston Ballet School takes you behind the scenes of the holiday classic with dance classes, music, story time, and peeks at costume design.
Why: It’ll be tutu fun.
When: Wed., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Seaport District (617-426-6500).

SHOP
Brookline Marketplace Craft Fair
What: More than 90 artisans sell jewelry, clothing, foods, home furnishings, accessories, artwork, toys, gifts, ceramics, stationery, linens, and more.
Why: ’Tis the season.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: The Park School, 171 Goddard Ave., Brookline (617-277-2456).

ROCK
Sara Wheeler and Little Groove
What: The Baby Wiggle music class founder and her band perform tot-friendly tunes.
Why: Get your groove on.
When: Sat., 10:30 a.m.
Where: The Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington (781-646-4849). Tickets online at interweave.us.

You've Got Mail

2009-11-05T09:30:00Z

Yummyfun Kooking Club Launches

Mention the USPS, and your kids will give you stares as blank as the envelopes gathering dust in your desk drawer.

Now imagine their wonder (holy smokes!) when an oversize envelope (Mom, check this out!) is delivered to the door by an actual postman (nice to meet you, sir!).

Sign up for the new Yummyfun Kooking Club and every month a special dossier will arrive in the mail with a bunch of wacky and wild concoctions for you and the kiddos to make together.

Our first batch included recipes for Fried Egg Eyes (a tasty breakfast) and Monster Mouth (an apple and yogurt snack), as well as a recipe box with dividers, a wooden mixing spoon, and a membership card (welcome to the Kook Club).

Once you’ve completed your mixing and shaking, you’re invited to e-mail pictures of your dishes to the Kooking Club online gallery.

No stamp required.

Sign up online at yummyfun.com.

25% off Anka Mini Furniture
Everyone’s got a seat at this high-quality birchwood table set with three chairs made for mini bottoms and one stool for an adult-size rear. Choose natural, honey, or espresso finish. Enter code DCMini at checkout; valid thru Nov. 12.

Eebee’s Mix & Mash: Adventures in the Kitchen for Baby & You
It’s never too early to start them in the kitchen. The new book/DVD combo features basic recipes for babes 6 months and up. Plus, helpful tips on engaging your little foodie and building a foundation for healthy eating.

Trying Funny Stuff DVD
The NYC-based kiddie band, The Jimmies, follows up its smash debut album, Make Your Own Someday, with a visual feast of music videos, karaoke sing-alongs, and a bonus live CD.

Photos: Courtesy of Yummyfun; Courtesy of Anka; Courtesy of Sterling; Courtesy of The Jimmies

Noodle Around

2009-11-02T15:00:00Z

Glam Foods's Baked Ziti Recipe

Your little referee calls the shots at mealtime. The game plan? An easy recipe created by food coach and chef German Lam of Glam Foods.

Baked Whole Wheat Ziti and Baby Spinach with Homemade Tomato Sauce
Serves four

Ingredients
½ c. olive oil
2 tbsp. chopped garlic in jar, dried granulated garlic, or fresh garlic
1 32-oz. can diced tomatoes
1 32-oz. can tomato sauce
16 leaves fresh basil or 2 tbsp. dried basil
Sugar (to taste)
Kosher salt (to taste)
1 lb. penne pasta
1 10-oz. bag baby spinach
½ lb. ricotta cheese
2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese

1. Preheat oven to 425º.

2. Pour olive oil into a 1½-quart pot, add garlic, and saute over medium heat until golden brown.

3. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the pot and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

4. Add basil and adjust seasoning with sugar and salt to taste.

5. Cook penne according to package directions (make sure to add salt to the water), then strain the pasta in a colander and toss it with oil to prevent sticking.

6. Wash the baby spinach in cold water and strain.

7. Add the spinach to two cups of tomato sauce and cook until it’s wilted.

8. Combine the pasta, sauce with spinach, and cheese in a casserole dish.

9. Bake until the cheese is melted.

Now you’ve scored a win for the home team.

To keep your family cheering, consult with Glam Foods (617-999-3868 or glamfoodsllc.com).

GAZE
Exploring the Night
What: Learn about constellations, study the moon, and view planets through a telescope with local astronomers.
Why: You’ve got stars in your eyes.
When: Thurs., 6:30-8 p.m.
Where: Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan (617-983-8500).

SEE (and MAKE)
Roslindale Open Studios
What: Lay eyes on more than 95 local artists’ works and let tots create their own masterpieces in the special children’s venue.
Why: How great thou art.
When: Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Roslindale Village and Sacred Heart School, 1035 Canterbury St., Roslindale (617-710-3811).

VISIT
Boston Lyric Opera’s First Open House
What: Get a behind-the-scenes tour, visit the dressing rooms, and raid the costume trunk for a photo session.
Why: Start the weekend on a high note.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Citi Performing Arts Center, Shubert Theatre, 265 Tremont St., Theater District (617-542-4912).

Photo: Courtesy of Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center

Half Way There

2009-10-29T08:30:00Z

Half Dot Brooklyn Outerwear

Fall used to be your favorite season.

Now it’s just a reminder of the long, cold, wiping-someone-else’s-snot-with-your-mittens season that lies ahead.

One way to sugarcoat it: Half Dot Brooklyn.

The new collection of urban prepster jackets from New York-based designer Judy Lee was inspired by a childhood spent in school uniforms. Made from finely woven Italian wool plaids, Half Dot comes in three styles: a sports coat for little guys, a swing coat for petite ladies, and a cape that works for both.

The jackets are lined in cozy, organic cotton flannel and have generous hoods to throw up when that fateful chill rolls through.

You know, before it really blows.

Available online at halfdotbrooklyn.com.

25% off Kicky Pants at Oliebollen
Get an even bigger kick out of Kicky Pants dresses, coveralls, and footies. A super-soft blend of bamboo (ecofriendly) and Lycra (snaps back after washing) makes for comfy everyday togs. Enter code KICKY at checkout; good thru Nov. 5.

Swellbeing Daylight Savings Sleep Tips

The NYC-based parenting resource offers a simple strategy for beating the clock. And don’t miss upcoming webinars on toilet training, positive discipline, and smart sleeping habits.

Moody Mamas for Target
Maternity clothes rarely have curve appeal (good fit, better price). But Moody Mamas has lent its bump-hugging style to a collection of chiffon and jersey dresses, tops, and nursing jammies expectant mums can’t afford to miss.

Photos: Courtesy of Half Dot Brooklyn; Courtesy of Kicky Pants; Jupiter Images; Courtesy of Target

Straight from the Art

2009-10-26T14:00:00Z

The Doodle Store

You couldn’t fathom scrimping on a crib and just had to have the best bedding.

By the time you got to the walls, you were all out of rations.

If your nursery is in need of affordable art, check out The Doodle Store’s selection of creative canvases. Local graphic designers (and parents) David and Kelly Robinson’s online shop offers bold prints at prices that won’t break the bank (or what’s left of it).

Styles range from flowers to farm animals; there are bugs, boats, teacups, and toy cars to match any decor. Plus, each six-inch-by-six-inch canvas is only $20, so you can afford a complete series.

And that’s something very near and dear to your art.

The Doodle Store (404-343-1372 or thedoodlestore.com). DailyCandy Kids subscribers get 25 percent off with code dailycandy at checkout; valid through February 1.

BARK
Howl-o-Ween Fall Festival
What: Radio Disney, doggie and kiddie costume contests, trick-or-treating, and more.
Why: It’s a pup party.
When: Sat., 1-6 p.m.
Where: Central Park, Atlantic Station, 245 18th St., Midtown (404-876-2616).

HOWL
Scream on the Green
What: An outdoor, costumed, and candy-filled screening of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
Why: Some things are spookier under the stars.
When: Sat., movie starts at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave., Downtown (404-222-7275).

SCRATCH
The 101 Dalmatians Musical
What: A pile of real pups brings the show to life.
Why: The perfect dog day afternoon.
When: Wed.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Thurs., 1 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 & 6:30 p.m.
Where: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Northwest Atlanta (770-916-2800).

Photo: Courtesy of The Doodle Store

Tricky Treats

2009-10-26T14:00:00Z

Caring Candies

Trick or treat, smell my feet, give me something good to eat.

Okay, little monsters, if you say so.

For your treat we have Caring Candies colorful lollipops, fruity candy canes, and sour bonbons. You’ll never guess the goods are made without artificial sweeteners, synthetic flavors or colors, preservatives, fat, gluten, or peanuts. And they’re kosher to boot.

Natural flavors come from ginger, lavender, licorice, raspberry, lemon, and mint (yes, the real things). Sweetness comes from isomalt, derived from beets.

And therein lies your trick. This tasty candy owes it deliciousness to a veggie most kids run screaming from.

Boo.

Available at Lively Kids, 15 State Street, Newburyport (978-465-7650 or livelykid.com); online at reallyhealthystuff.com.

BOO
Harvard Scare
What: A monster mash block party, with magicians, children’s costume parade, contests, and music.
Why: It’ll be a thriller.
When: Fri., 4 p.m.
Where: Harvard Square, in front of Holyoke Center, 1350 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge (617-491-3434).

EAT
Halloween Cupcake Tea
What: Wear your costume and sample creepy cupcakes such as the Great Pumpkin, with goblin goo, and the Chocolate Boo, with marshmallow mummy guts.
Why: Scary good.
When: Sat., 1-4 p.m.
Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Boston Common, 10 Avery St., Theater District (617-574-7176).

CELEBRATE
Harvest Home Festival
What: Pony rides, scarecrow contest, balloon rides, hands-on crafts, and more to celebrate a great harvest of vegetables donated to hunger relief groups.
Why: Food for thought.
When: Sun., noon-4 p.m.
Where: Brigham Hill Community Farm, 37 Wheeler Rd., North Grafton (774-551-6544).

Photo: Courtesy of Caring Candies

Get Your Motor Running

2009-10-22T08:30:00Z

Postpartum Sex Q&A with Sexologist Logan Levkoff

Discussing the birds and the bees with your kids is a nightmare. But it’s even worse when your own urges vanish. It’s a tough (and hardly talked-about) topic. We turned to sexologist and sexuality educator Logan Levkoff for some answers.

How do you deal when you get the six-week “go ahead” after giving birth but you’re not ready to give the green light?
“Go ahead” simply means that physically you can have sex. But your partner won’t (and can’t) hear it that way. Granted, it’s not his fault. He has no idea what it feels like to have a multipound entity emerge out of his penis. So it’s our job to school them.

Class is in session. Opening remarks?
Most of us want nothing to do with sex until long after six weeks. We’re exhausted, we may still be spotting, and we’re most likely terrified of the potential pain. Let him know where your anxiety comes from and come up with solutions together. Don’t have uncomfortable, partner-pacifying sex.

Let’s talk tatas. I feel like my partner and my baby are in a battle for my boobs.
Whether he likes it or not, if you choose to breastfeed, he loses. Breastfeeding can confuse some men — they begin to think that they aren’t “needed” by us or the kids. But they should think of this as an opportunity to experiment. While one erogenous zone may be off limits, there’s plenty of uncharted territory to explore. (Just remind him that going right for the groin isn’t a turn-on.)

After delivering a baby, sex “feels” different, right?
Having a baby is physically traumatic. If you’re anxious and you tense up, sex is going to suck. You won’t be well lubricated, you won’t be emotionally into it, and your partner will probably sense your hesitation.

Stellar. What can we do to improve between-the-sheets action?
Doctors recommend Kegel exercises. Using lubricant during sex is essential. And a little erotica to get you in the mood doesn’t hurt either.

But sometimes all you want to do after the kids go to bed is put on pajamas and watch Top Chef.
I understand the need to tune out the rest of the world, but that can last only for so long. Sometimes doing it first on your own makes it easier to tackle with someone else.

Wait, you don’t mean … ?
Yes. It gives you an opportunity to remember what pleasure feels like without the pressure of having another person there. After a while, you’ll realize that pleasure is possible again and that you want to experience it with your partner.

Then let nature take its course.

Dreading the sex talk with your kids? Order a copy of Third Base Ain’t What It Used to Be: What Your Kids Are Learning About Sex Today online at amazon.com or by e-mailing logan@loganlevkoff.com.

20% off Tiny Prints and Free Address Labels
Halloween costume, check. Thanksgiving plans, check. Holiday cards, uh-oh. No big deal with Tiny Prints. Get 20% off orders over $99 — and a free set of address labels. Enter DCKIDS09 at checkout; valid thru Oct. 29.

Little Bean Shop Launches
The new web outpost of Christine Visneau’s (Baby Bean Vintage and Small Magazine) Dallas shop is an impeccably edited collection of Clover New York and Mini Rotation, plus Visneau’s online design exclusives.

Yo Gabba Gabba! Music Is Awesome!
The first soundtrack from the hit kids’ show features fresh tracks from The Shins, Of Montreal, The Roots, and Biz Markie. If your family isn’t addicted to the show yet, give these songs a whirl. You will be.

Photos: Christopher Watson / Flickr; Courtesy of Tiny Prints; Courtesy of Little Bean; Courtesy of Filter US Recordings

Afternoon Delight

2009-10-19T14:00:00Z

The Suites at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental

Hotels that rent rooms by the hour are generally frowned upon by the mommy-and-me set. Which is unfortunate, because you could really use a massage with a happy ending (i.e., a nap).

Recharge your relationship with a three- or four-hour party for two in the sumptuous 700-square-foot Mandarin Suite, which has its own stone sauna, soaking tub, treatment tables, and daybed.

Order from the spa menu for sustenance (you’ll need it) — an exotic fruit plate and some champagne to start. Follow it with a couple’s massage, or just tell the staff to skidaddle and get down to business.

In other words, dippity do da.

Available at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, 776 Boylston Street, fourth floor (617-535-8820 or mandarinoriental.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

READ
Boston Book Festival
What: Meet the author of The Polar Express, have tea with Catie Copley (the dog that lives at The Fairmont Copley Plaza), and keep an eye out for Madeline and Curious George.
Why: Read on.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Various locations, including the Boston Public Library, Old South Church, and outdoors in Copley Square (617-252-3240).

WONDER
Harry Potter: the Exhibition
What: More than 200 authentic props and costumes from the films, including the Great Hall, Hagrid’s hut, and the Gryffindor common room.
Why: You’ll be spellbound.
When: Sun.-Feb. 21. Mon.-Thurs., Sat. & Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Museum of Science, 1 Science Park (617-723-2500).

SAIL
Jamaica Pond Celebration Neighborhood Open House
What: Enjoy sailing, rowing, kayaking, cider, and hot cocoa in support of the nonprofit Courageous Sailing Center.
Why: Anchors away.
When: Sun., noon-4 p.m.
Where: Jamaica Pond Boathouse, Jamaica Way, at Pond St. (617-268-7243).

Where the Styled Things Are

2009-10-15T08:30:00Z

Costume Box Essentials

The fearmongers love Halloween. The 1988 headline: Beware of razor blades in candy bars! In 2009: Excess candy consumption leads to a life of crime!

But what scares you every year is putting together an ensemble that will knock ’em dead.

We asked Where the Wild Things Are costume designer Casey Storm for tips on building a homemade costume box you can use year-round. So you’ll never have to be frightened again.

Get in Character
Don’t limit creativity. If they can imagine a character, it can be part of their repertoire. Begin with the basics — a monster, pirate, princess, scary animal, superhero — to build your costume confidence.

Make It a Family Affair
Boots from your closet work for pirates and superheroes (ditto old tights). Grandma’s fuzzy sweaters make an animal’s furry coat. Grandpa’s outdated specs with popped-out lenses say secret agent, Einstein, or Harry Potter. A vest from a three-piece suit is perfect for a cowboy, cowgirl, or genie. And load up on everyone’s hats. Because hats are cool.

Be Thrifty
Make it a date and hit garage sales with your wee ones for vintage fabrics and jewelry. Things that sparkle turn ordinary items (tees, pants, dresses) into something special.

Stay Close to Home
Old towels and bath sheets can be transformed into capes and cut into strips for armbands and headbands.

And remember, stuffed animals make the best sidekicks.

Where the Wild Things Are opens tomorrow. To find a theater near you, go to fandango.com.

25% off Lil’ Swanky
Get big savings on clothing for lil’ swankies — Lola & James, Kingsley, Little Ella, Okkies, Splendid Littles, and more. Enter code Dckids25; valid thru Oct. 29.

We’ve Got a Case of the Whyzz.com
Kid-friendly explanations to pressing questions, from “Why is grass green?” to “How come I can’t play with my food?” Plus, activities and experiments to reinforce the answers with more than “because I said so.”

Totsy.com Launches
You’re invited to the latest private sale site for kids and moms, where you’ll get 40-70 percent off lines like Kettler, My Vintage Baby, and Twirls & Twigs. Just click the I Have an Invitation Code button, enter DailyCandy in the code field, and fill out your info.

Photos: Matt Nettheim / Courtesy of Where the Wild Things Are; Courtesy of Lil’ Swanky; Courtesy of Whyzz.com; Courtesy of Totsy.com

Stop and Smell the Roses

2009-10-12T15:00:00Z

DevonRose Clothing

A rose by any other name may smell as sweet.

But when it comes to charm, DevonRose is no garden-variety collection.

The line’s simple frocks and playful separates are perfect for piling on. Layer the denim dress, with delightful Japanese animal-print trim, with a scarf and leggings. Keep stems warm in denim leggings with lace ruffles that look sweet for any occasion.

Green sportster pants are tough to beat as a staple for the boys.

And when things heat up, the light fabrics transition nicely into spring.

Making each piece a perennial wardrobe addition.

Available at Little Bean, 5308 Junius Street (214-370-9111 or littlebeanshop.com); online at etsy.com.

FIND
The Perfect Pumpkin
What: Spend a day at the farm — catch a hay ride, feed the animals, and pick a pumpky from the patch.
Why: Squash a Saturday.
When: Thru Nov. 7. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.
Where: Big Orange Pumpkin Farm, 5518 County Rd. 126, Celina (972-382-4995).

SCORE
A Free Meal
What: Kids eat free at Chipotle Mexican Grill with your purchase of a burrito, bowl, taco, or salad.
Why: Taste-test the new kids’ menu.
When: Sun. Hours vary by location.
Where: To find locations, go to chipotle.com.

SHOP
NPPDS Garage Sale
What: Gently used home decor, clothing, and piles of baby gear for a steal.
Why: Twice as nice.
When: Fri., 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: NorthPark Presbyterian Day School, 9555 N. Central Expwy. (214-363-5457).

Toy Story

2009-10-12T14:00:00Z

Stellabella Toys Opens

Once upon a time, there was a small, quaint teacher supply store in Inman Square, where educators would gather materials for children’s classrooms and the occasional parent would stop in for blocks.

But over time the store grew bigger and bigger — adding more products, games, and puzzles that attracted parents and kids alike. Before long it was the most favorite toy store throughout the land. And so a second and then a third popped up in villages around the square.

And now a fourth shop has opened in Dedham, with 2,400 square feet of thoughtfully chosen products, from science kits to dollhouses to cars and, of course, tons and tons of blocks.

Which sounds like a happy ending to us. At least for now.

Stellabella Toys, 244 Legacy Place, at Providence Highway, Dedham (781-329-6290 or stellabellatoys.com).

ENTER
Opening Our Doors Festival
What: Various museums and organizations host arts groups that offer performances, hands-on activities, music, dance, and more.
Why: Come on in.
When: Mon., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Throughout the Fenway.

LISTEN
The Three Little Pigs
What: An operatic version of the classic for kids.
Why: Squeal in delight.
When: Sat., noon & 2 p.m.
Where: Seully Hall, Boston Conservatory, 8 The Fenway (617-912-9240).

WANDER
Fall Family Festival
What: Go on a scavenger hunt, do a leaf rubbing, create a dish garden, and take a guided walking tour.
Why: See how their garden grows.
When: Sun., noon-4 p.m.
Where: Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham (508-877-7630).

Sip, Sip, Hooray

2009-10-12T13:30:00Z

CamelBak Kids' Better Bottle

They say the oral stage ends before preschool. Try telling that to your paci-addicted 3-year-old.

Why not offer up a Better Bottle instead? The latest from Petaluma-based CamelBak, this mini rendition of the popular adult version has no choking parts and can be used for water, juice, or milk. Durable, dishwasher safe, and entirely BPA and phalate free, the clever design vanquishes all seven of the deadly sippy cup sins (toxic, leak prone, ugly, smelly, fragile, boring, and difficult to clean).

The secret sauce here is in the cap, which is fitted with a button-activated pop-up silicone bite valve. To drink, Kiddo flips open the valve and chomps down lightly while sipping or sucking.

Chew on that.

Available at REI, 840 Brannan Street (415-934-1938 or rei.com). To see styles, go to camelbak.com.

Photo: Courtesy of CamelBak

LISTEN
Lit Crawl at Paxton Gate: Edward Gorey Story Hour
What: A free Litquake storytelling event featuring Edward Gorey shorts and readers Em Gift and Michele Menard.
Why: Book it.
When: Sat., 6-7 p.m.
Where: Paxton Gate’s Curiosities for Kids, 766 Valencia St., b/t 18th & 19th Sts. (415-252-9990).

CELEBRATE
Fiesta on the Hill
What: An annual street fair boasting live music, a dunk tank, and friendly community vibe to benefit the Bernal Heights Neighborhood Center.
Why: You’re taking it to the streets.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Cortland Ave., b/t Bennington & Gates Sts.

COOK
Book signing for The Trader Joe’s Companion: a Portable Cookbook
What: Wona Miniati, a local mom behind Cooking with All Things Trader Joe’s, dishes on her new take-to-the-store compendium of busy-mom gourmet recipes.
Why: They’re no flash in the pan.
When: Sat., 4 p.m.
Where: Borders Stonestown, 3251 20th Ave., Stonestown Galleria (415-759-2626).

Grey Matter

2009-10-08T08:30:00Z

Whitten Grey Online Shop Launches

A Saturday-night sitter. Grass-fed beef.

There are certain things you’re willing to pony up for no matter the cost.

A dress for your tiny dancer hasn’t cracked the top ten.

Cancel your Brazilian; Whitten Grey has launched online. The girls’ line uses organic fabrics to create timeless pieces with schoolgirl charm. This season’s collection includes a gray wool jumper, crisp white blouse with Peter Pan collar, and retro bamboo shift dresses.

And though spending $100 (or more) on a frock may be hard to justify, Project Little Grey Dress makes good use of every dime. With every purchase, Whitten Grey gives a dress to a girl in need. And you get to choose the color of the dress, the country of donation, and craft a brief note for the recipient.

Making it worth its weight in gold.

Available online at whittengrey.com.

Photo: Gretchen Easton Photography / Courtesy of Whitten Grey

25% off Hijkids Apparel
Get a crafty discount on tops, bottoms, and dresses from the likes of Saurette and Pink Chicken — includes all sale apparel items. Enter code SWEET25 at checkout; valid thru Oct. 15.

Read for the Record
Join Jumpstart and raise awareness for early childhood education. Sponsor a copy of The Very Hungry Caterpillar for a child in need and pledge to read with your littles tonight. You’ll help achieve Jumpstart’s goal of reaching one million kids.

MasonGray Furniture from Ducduc Creators
The team behind the modern nursery line launches a traditional collection with silhouettes rooted in the past. From cribs and changing tables to queen beds and armoires — it’s all manufactured in Connecticut, finished by hand, and designed to last.

Photos: Gretchen Easton / Courtesy of Whitten Grey; Courtesy of Hijkids; Courtesy of Jumpstart; Courtesy of MasonGray

Whitten Grey Fall 2009

2009-10-08T08:29:00Z

Organic fabrics create timeless pieces with schoolgirl charm. And with every purchase Whitten Grey’s Project Little Grey Dress gives a dress to a girl in need.

Get the full story on Whitten Grey.

Rash Decision

2009-10-05T14:00:00Z

Bum Boosa Bamboo Baby Products

You’re a natural-born quick-change artist — doing away with a dirty nappy in 30 seconds flat.

But when it comes to choosing products for your baby’s rear, you haven’t had such an easy time.

Before you bottom out, try Bum Boosa Bamboo Baby Products. (Try saying that five times fast.) The local company sources family-run bamboo farms that don’t use pesticides or chemicals for its bamboo-based wipes and diaper cream.

The biodegradable wipes are derived from bamboo fiber and infused with pure-grade lavender and sweet orange essential oils; the ointment features bamboo silk powder, zinc oxide, and tea tree and other essential oils. Both are easy on baby’s butt and the environment.

Plus, for every product sold, Bum Boosa plants a tree with Trees for the Future.

Which means in the end, no one has cause to be bummed out.

Available online at bumboosa.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Bum Boosa Bamboo Baby Products

BOUNCE
Gnip Gnop Circus
What: The Gnip Gnop Circus (that’s ping-pong spelled backward) is a glow-in-the-dark puppet show extravaganza.
Why: Have a ball.
When: Wed. & Thurs., 10:30 a.m.
Where: Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Tickets at 617-731-6400 or online.

PICK
Verrill Farm Harvest Festival & Benefit
What: Pumpkins, games, hayrides, pony rides, live music, and a raffle.
Why: Carve out time for fall.
When: Sat., noon-4 p.m.
Where: Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord (978-369-4494).

CHOW
Mystic Seaport Chowderfest
What: Enjoy chowder, seafood, music, hands-on art projects, stories, and other fishy fun.
Why: Sea you there.
When: Sat.-Mon., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 75 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, Conn. (860-572-5315).