DailyCandy Kids Los Angeles

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

It's Glow Time

2009-11-16T14:30:00Z

Kate Somerville Pregnancy Facials

That greasy sheen. Those lovely zits. It’s written all over your face: Your eggo is preggo.

Kate Somerville can’t balance your mood swings, but she can even out your complexion with her new facial for expecting mamas. The West Hollywood pro’s super-gentle treatment tackles common pregnancy concerns (puffiness, dehydration, breakouts) with just the right amount of pampering.

Start with a personalized cleansing and extractions, followed by a heavenly smelling blueberry-honey mask. Soothing massage and baby-friendly ingredients round things out.

The results are positively glowing.

Available at Kate Somerville, 8428 Melrose Place, between Orlando Avenue and La Cienega Boulevard, suite c, West Hollywood (323-655-7546 or katesomerville.com).

SEE
The Power to Play: from Trash to Treasure
What: Check out inspiring toys handcrafted by kids in Africa, Asia, and the Americas from recycled materials (Coke can cars, soccer balls made of plastic bags).
Why: Imagine that.
When: Thru Dec. 31. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: The Museum of Tolerance, 9786 W. Pico Blvd., at Roxbury Dr. (310-553-8403).

BUNDLE
Sequins Outerwear Sale
What: Take 15 percent off jackets, scarves, hats, and mittens. Labels include Catimini, Kenzo, and Ikks.
Why: Baby, it’s (sorta) cold outside.
When: Thru Nov. 25. Daily, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 919 Manhattan Ave., b/t Ninth & Tenth Sts., ste. e, Manhattan Beach (310-798-1788).

BAKE
Cupcakes Class
What: Blossoming Betty Crockers learn to frost, fill, and bedazzle a smorgasbord of treats.
Why: Dessert’s your favorite food group.
When: Tues. & Dec. 14, 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: Yummy Cupcakes, 2918 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank (818-558-1080).

Photo: Courtesy of Kate Somerville

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

Sweet Charity

2009-11-09T14:30:00Z

Awesome World Foundation

Teaching kids to share is like walking through a “mine, mine, mine” field.

Before you explode, show them how to spread the wealth with a contribution to Awesome World Foundation.

Writer/artist Dallas Clayton formed the children’s literacy charity after touring the country with An Awesome Book, his inspiring call to imagination, filled with Technicolor illustrations of creatures like rocket-powered unicorns and musical baboons.

You can help. Buy the book; for each copy sold, one is donated to a place where kids need a boost (a foster home, hospital, camp, inner-city school).

It’s the bomb.

Available online at veryawesomeworld.com.

ROCK
Minivan Kid Series with The Hollow Trees
What: New munchkin concert series in a grown-up venue debuts with a family hootenanny.
Why: God bless Americana.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.
Where: Air Conditioned Supper Club, 625 Lincoln Blvd., Venice (310-230-5343).

DANCE
Yo Gabba Gabba! Live — There’s a Party in my City
What: Get animated with DJ Lance Rock and special guests at the kickoff for first U.S. tour.
Why: They’ve got a case of the sillies.
When: Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.
Where: Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, 700 W. 32nd St., at S. Figueroa St., Downtown (213-748-5116). Tickets online at ticketmaster.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Dallas Clayton

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

Belly Up

2009-11-02T14:30:00Z

Baby's Belly Food Delivery Service

Ding dong! Special delivery!

Nope, it’s not the stork. It’s Baby’s Belly, a new kids’ meal service bringing organic, like-homemade dishes to your door.

Time-challenged parents can avoid the frozen foods section by choosing from age-appropriate programs, starting with simple purees and moving on to textured vittles like chunky spaghetti sauce and curried lentils with tofu and zucchini. Older nibblers graduate to well-balanced big-kid eats (try the chicken fingers and pot roast).

Deliveries happen Mondays and Thursdays to ensure maximum freshness. In the spirit of recycling, they’ll replenish empty containers left outside.

It all has a ring to it.

Available online at babysbellyfood.com.

SHOP
Children’s WAL Art-Mart
What: Kids barter or sell their artwork, handmade crafts, and old toys at the outdoor market while parents peruse the gallery for lovely yarn and wood paintings. Proceeds benefit the studio.
Why: Holiday shopping starts now.
When: Sat. & Sun., noon-3 p.m.
Where: Wisdom Arts Laboratory, 520 E. Orange Grove Blvd., b/t Oakland & N. Madison Aves., Pasadena (626-318-0897).

SHAKE
Kidrockers
What: The Henry Clay People and special guests jam for a way underage crowd. Adults must be accompanied by a kid.
Why: It’s a minor miracle.
When: Sun., 1-2:30 p.m.
Where: The Echo, 1822 W. Sunset Blvd., b/t N. Glendale Blvd. & Lemoyne St., Echo Park. Info at 310-923-4017.

COMMUNICATE
Take the Struggle out of Parenting
What: Six-session workshop with child development pro Gila Brown teaches positive discipline for school-age children.
Why: Zen and the art of raising kids.
When: Wed., 10 a.m.-noon. (And some other Wednesdays thru Dec. 16.)
Where: Wheel of Wellbeing, 1575 Westwood Blvd., b/t Ohio & Massachusetts Aves., Westwood. Info at 310-497-7461.

Photo: Courtesy of Baby’s Belly

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

Pretty, Please

2009-10-26T13:30:00Z

Blissy Missy Spa Parties for Girls

Lipstick on her collar told a tale on her. That’s right. Little glamour puss has been fooling around in Mom’s makeup drawer.

When beauty calls, give GreenBliss EcoSpa a holler. The mobile spa service throws bang-up Blissy Missy pamper parties for the Nickelodeon crowd.

Gather a group of at least eight gals (ages 5 and up) for a two-hour spoil fest. Guests slip into silky kimono robes and bamboo slippers for mani/pedis (using nontoxic polish, natch), mini facials, chair massages, and pretty hairdos with fresh flowers.

Goodie bags dazzle with age-appropriate products, like organic lip balm, custom-scented bubble bath, all-natural soaps, and more.

After all the oohs and ahs, you’ll be blushing.

GreenBliss EcoSpa Blissy Missy Parties (310-859-2272 ext. 1 or blissymissy.com).

SPOOK
The Haunted Harvest Storytelling Festival
What: Hear spooky folk tales from We Tell Stories, plus pumpkin carving, costume contests, music, and more.
Why: That’s the spirit.
When: Tues., 3-8 p.m.
Where: Old L.A. Farmers Market, Ave. 58, at Marmion Way, Highland Park (323-256-2336).

PAINT
Toddler Playdate
What: Mingle with other moms while your midget unleashes his inner Van Gogh. Take your own smock.
Why: Easel does it.
When: Mon., 12:30 p.m.; Fri. & Sun., 10:30 a.m.
Where: Paint:Lab, 2912 Main St., b/t Ashland Ave. & Kinney St., Santa Monica (310-450-9200).

HEAR
Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers
What: Funnyman plays toe-tapping bluegrass from his chart-topping new album.
Why: With a banjo on his knee.
When: Wed., 8 p.m.
Where: Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., b/t 1st & 2nd Sts., Downtown (323-850-2000).

Photo: Courtesy of Blissy Missy

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

Just Do It

2009-10-19T13:30:00Z

Sexy Bedrooms Around Town

Lately, the closest you’ve come to role-play is when the Mr. goes to the store for diapers. Treat yourself to a little fantasy at one of three bootylicious hotel rooms.

Sex on the Beach
Play Ken and Barbie for a night at the Malibu Beach Inn (22878 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu; 310-456-6444). Request room 316 or suite 321 for sweeping ocean views. Nice packages (tee hee) include dinner or breakfast and are guaranteed to get you in the mood.

Voulez Vous?
Wednesday really is hump day at Maison 140 Beverly Hills (140 Lasky Drive; 310-281-4000). Check into a red-hot Mandarin room while sipping a complimentary glass of rosé. Then head downstairs to Bar Noir for Vin et Fromage, a weekly wine and cheese tasting featuring local vinos, 6-9 p.m.

Living in Oblivion
Knock back a pitcher of margaritas, then have a fling in suite uno at El Tres Inn (4439 West Sunset Boulevard; 323-666-6351). Located above El Chavo Restaurant, the three-room lodge recalls a swanky Mexico City bordello (purple-tiled bathrooms, black wallpaper). Pastries, fruit, and joe take the edge off the morning after.

You’ll be in and out.

Photo: Courtesy of Maison 140 Beverly Hills

SAVE
The Mini Social Warehouse Sale
What: Take up to 70 percent off designer kiddie clothing (Oeuf, Feather Baby), shoes (Smaller), toys, bedding, and more.
Why: You’re a social butterfly.
When: Sat., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 120 E. Santa Anita Ave., b/t S. First St. & San Fernando Rd., Burbank.

LEARN
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
What: Cutting-edge martial art fosters confidence and a strong work ethic in kiddos.
Why: Let’s get physical.
When: Ongoing. Tues. & Thurs., 5:15-6:15 p.m.
Where: Robot Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, 11870 Santa Monica Blvd., b/t Bundy & Barrington Aves., West Los Angeles (310-979-9222).

SPOOK
Pumpkin Fair
What: Bouncies, carnival games, a haunted house, local grub, and more.
Why: You ain’t afraid of no ghosts.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Dixie Canyon Avenue School, 4220 Dixie Canyon Ave., b/t Ventura Blvd. & Moorpark St., Sherman Oaks (818-784-6283). Tickets available at thepumpkinfair.com.

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).

Retro Active

2009-10-12T13:30:00Z

Jesse's Threads Vintage Children's Clothing

When it comes to impulse buying, there’s the good (second-hand Chanel), the bad (leg warmers), and the ugly (culottes).

Then there’s the inspired. Like the pint-size corduroy jumpsuit that called to Tina Holmes and John Tripp, the couple behind Jesse’s Threads, a new collection of vintage togs for tots.

Named after their son, the company deals in original Levi’s gear, ribbed tank tops, and one-of-a-kind sweatshirts for minis. Think summer camp circa 1970, but everything is bug juice stain free and meant for serious playtime. Snag a classic Snoopy tee and pass it down to a friend once your munchkin outgrows it.

Or moves on to his next whim.

Trunk show, Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m., 944 Harding Avenue, at Naples Avenue, Venice. Tiny treats provided by Sweet E’s. To see styles, go to jessesthreads.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Jesse’s Threads

PLAN
A Baby
What: Moms and moms-to-be ogle top-of-the-line baby gear, services, and products while hearing from experts. First five readers to respond to this e-mail get a free ticket. Enter “giveaway” at checkout.
Why: Got a better plan?
When: Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd., at N. Orange Dr. Tickets online at planababyevent.com or call 310-860-1300.

SING
Mothersong LA
What: Soulful world tunes draw babes (0-3 years) to this vibrant, drop-in singing circle behind Swork Coffee.
Why: Unchained melody.
When: Ongoing. Tues., 10-11 a.m.
Where: American Legion Hall, 2109 Merton Ave., b/t Eagle Rock Blvd. & Caspar Ave., Eagle Rock (323-236-0542).

LEARN
Spooky Science Presents: Skeletons
What: Kids can solve a forensic mystery, make Day of the Dead crafts, or play a life-size game of Operation at this multifaceted new exhibition.
Why: What lies beneath.
When: Sat.-Nov. 8.
Where: Discovery Science Center, 2500 N. Main St., b/t Edgewood Rd. & Walkie Way, Santa Ana (714-542-2823).

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.

Who's Your Daddy?

2009-10-05T13:30:00Z

Pops & Tots Open-Mic Night at Grow Kid Grow

Before he went Little League, your hubby sang the blues, jammed on the electric guitar, and was a chapter shy of completing The Great American Novel.

Give him a chance to flex his former talents at Pops & Tots, a new monthly open-mic night for dads hosted by Grow Kid Grow. The cozy Silver Lake resale shop moves the racks and cracks brews for papas to perform for — or with — tykes. Get there early to score parking and great finds (Halloween costumes, discontinued Dwell bedding).

Moms are welcome, too. But if you’ve already heard him recite the Star Wars prologue backward, take the night off to do things you used to do.

Like sleep.

Every third Friday of the month, 7-9 p.m., Grow Kid Grow, 4310 West Sunset Boulevard, between Bates and Fountain Avenues, Silver Lake (323-661-4769 or growkidgrow.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Grow Kid Grow

SHOP
The Hill’s Farmers’ Market
What: New market debuts at Cahuenga Plaza Shops. Pick up veggies, fresh fruit cobblers, Greek cheese, and more. Mention DailyCandy at Sparrow and get 25 percent off everything in-store.
Why: Hill, yeah.
When: Sun., 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: 3270 W. Cahuenga Blvd., b/t Bennett & Ellington Drs., Cahuenga Pass.

EAT
Little Tavernista Menu
What: Pint-sizers (12 and under) nosh on ingredient-driven fare like grilled chicken with carrots, fish and chips with tartar sauce, and crudites with ranch dressing.
Why: Fast foodie fix.
When: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.-close; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-2:15 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.-close.
Where: Tavern, 11648 San Vicente Blvd., at Darlington Ave., Brentwood (310-806-6464).

DOWNWARD DOG
Pre/Postnatal & Mommy and Little Spirit Yoga Class
What: New and almost-there moms gently release the kinks with Sarah Coleman; wee ones (ages 2-4) bend to the sounds of live guitar by teacher Jocelyn Kay Lee.
Why: You’re in the om stretch.
When: Pre/postnatal class, Tues., 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Thurs., 1:30-2:30 p.m.; Little Spirit class, Wed., 9-9:45 a.m.
Where: Studio Surya Yoga, 1501 Main St., at Market St., ste. 106, Venice (310-910-4740).