DailyCandy Kids San Francisco

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

Toast of the Town

2009-11-02T14:30:00Z

Foreign Cinema's Stuffed French Toast

You woke at the crack of dawn to race cars on the Indy 500 headboard. Make the best of your early start by cooking up Gayle Pirie’s and John Clark’s custardy French toast, a fave on the Foreign Cinema weekend menu.

Stuffed French Toast
Serves four

Ingredients
1 day-old baguette
6 tbsp. of your favorite jam
4 eggs
2 tbsp. sugar
1 egg yolk
¾ tsp. salt
2 c. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. orange flower water (optional)
Butter

1. Slice the baguette on a gentle bias, about 1-inch thick. Make twelve slices.

2. With a paring knife, create a pocket in the center of the slice, about an inch into the center. Carefully place ½ tbsp. of jam into each slice of bread.

3. Beat eggs, yolk, milk, vanilla, orange flower water, sugar, and salt. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish.

4. Submerge slices and prick the surfaces with a fork for better absorption.

5. Let bread sit in egg mixture for at least 15 minutes. (This soaking time ensures a custard-like interior and crisp exterior when the bread is cooked.)

6. Melt 2 tsp. of butter in an iron skillet or on a seasoned griddle over medium heat.

7. Place the battered slices into the foaming butter and turn the heat to low. Cook each piece 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown. Add more butter to the pan if needed.

8. Depending on the season, garnish with sauteed apples, figs, or pears; fresh berries; or everyday items like sliced bananas, toasted almonds, powdered sugar.

Too sleepy to cook? Foreign Cinema’s weekend brunch tempts with a $10 three-course kids’ menu, crayons, coloring books, and open-air tables. Foreign Cinema, 2534 Mission Street, between 21st and 22nd Streets (415-648-7600 or foreigncinema.com).

LISTEN
Ivy & Bean Day
What: Local author Annie Barrows reads from her new Ivy & Bean book, Doomed to Dance.
Why: Face the peril of plié.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.
Where: Bookshop West Portal, 80 W. Portal Ave., b/t Ulloa & Vicente Sts. (415-564-8080‎).

SNAP
Whippersnappers Studio
What: A just-opened full-service family portrait studio offering informal sittings with pro shooters and same-day take home CD.
Why: Lights, camera, satisfaction.
When: You feel a flash of inspiration.
Where: 1800 Filbert St., b/t Octavia & Laguna Sts. (415-921-7627).

DECORATE
Gingerbread Wishes
What: Kiddies can order a $10 gingerbread cookie plus a tableside decorating kit (with icing and sprinkles) to benefit the Greater Bay Area Make-a-Wish Foundation.
Why: It’s fun raising.
When: Thru Nov. 30.
Where: One Market Restaurant, 1 Market St., at Steuart St. (415-777-5577) and all Bay Area Lark Creek group restaurants.

Photo: avlxyz / Flickr

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

The Gypsy in You

2009-10-26T13:30:00Z

Serena & Lily's Deluxe Gypsy Tote Diaper Bag System

Four diapers + two onesies + wipes + juice boxes + laptop + wallet = one overloaded mom.

Let Serena & Lily’s new Deluxe Gypsy Tote diaper bag system lighten things up. With a spot for everything from your cell phone to her sippies, the machine-washable carry-all makes grab-and-go easy.

Three chic designs (playful Prague, eye-catching Peacock, and understated Gobi) coordinate with S&L’s elegant slings and camouflage the smart interior, which is goo resistant and lined with oodles of pockets. Swap in matching components (diaper clutch, changing pad) depending on the day’s game plan.

For work, stow your laptop and loop the leather tie to keep all under wraps; at playgroup, expand to carry spare clothes and Kidoodle’s favorite stuffed friend.

It’s the perfect solution.

Available at Sprout San Francisco, 1828 Union Street, at Octavia Street (415-359-9205 or sproutsanfrancisco.com); Mill Valley Baby & Kids Company, 12 Miller Avenue, at Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley (415-389-1312 or mvbabyandkids.com). To see styles, go to serenaandlily.com.

EAT
Sweet Jo’s Friday Family Night
What: The JCCSF’s cafe debuts a Friday-night menu that includes fresh, eclectic meals for kiddos and grown-ups, plus a roster of keep-’em-busy games and toys.
Why: TGIF.
When: Fri., 5-9 p.m.
Where: 3200 California St., at Presidio Blvd. (415-345-0090).

PARADE
Children’s Gardens Halloween Costume Walk
What: A pageant of tots under 10 accompanied by live tunes and the antics of the Unique Derique.
Why: Clown about town.
When: Sat., noon-4 p.m.
Where: Yerba Buena Children’s Garden, 740 Howard St., at Fourth St. Info at 415-543-1718.

COWER
HallowScreen
What: Spook-loving tykes don costumes for a showcase of Disney’s silliest bone chillers, including The Skeleton Dance and Pluto’s Judgment Day.
Why: Howl about it?
When: Fri. & Sat. Times vary.
Where: The Walt Disney Family Museum, 104 Montgomery St., at Lincoln Blvd. (415-345-6800). Tickets online at disney.go.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Serena & Lily

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

Gimme a Break

2009-10-19T13:30:00Z

Inspired Date-Night Ideas

Dinner and a movie? Ho hum. No wonder you’d rather stay home and catch up on laundry. Surprise yourself (and your S.O.) by venturing out for the evening.

Blinded by Science
The Academy of Sciences’s NightLife VIP Tour is out of this world. Bypass the epic lines and take advantage of the open bar while awaiting the arrival of your guides, expert raconteurs Chris Fitzsimmons and Scott Black. Get a behind-the-scenes peek at the living roof, private gem vault, and rain forest, before taking your seats for the planetarium show. Finish with chocolate pot de creme at the Moss Room, the museum’s swank subterranean eatery.

Float Your Boat
Splash out with UCSF’s Sausalito Moonlight Paddle on San Francisco Bay. After a crash course in kayak safety, you’ll glide out on the calm waters of Richardson Bay for breathtaking sunset views of the city and surrounding isles. Celebrate your teamwork with a drink at Taste of Rome (1000 Bridgeway, Sausalito; 415-332-7660) before heading back over the bridge.

Leave Your Senses
Take in a Friday- or Saturday-night concert at the Audium (1616 Bush Street, between Gough and Franklin Streets; 415-771-1616), the only theater in the nation dedicated to sound sculpture. With 176 speakers and a soundtrack written specifically for the space, you’re guaranteed a wild sensory experience. Compare notes afterward over a flight at Amelie (1754 Polk Street; 415-292-6916).

That way, your night’s not a total wash.

Photo: Anthony Gordon / Courtesy of California Academy of Sciences

GO
Dunsmuir Estate Oktoberfest & Pumpkin Patch
What: Live Oompah tunes and German beer and munchies, plus games, crafts, trolley rides, and pumpkin painting to help you and the brood get Teutonic.
Why: See you lederhosen.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Dunsmuir-Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Ct., at the carriage house at Covington Gate, Oakland (510-562-0328).

VISIT
Fall Family Festival: Tales from the Emerald Cities
What: An annual celebration of the parent-child relationship, this year with puppet shows, classical dance, and storytelling from Burma and Thailand.
Why: You’re in a family way.
When: Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin St., b/t McAllister & Grove Sts. (415-581-3500).

DOWNLOAD
Clif Kid Neighborhood Safety Guide
What: A health assessment checklist with quick fixes to make your block safer for trick-or-treaters.
Why: Spook’s around the corner.
When: You’re out ambling.
Where: Online at clifbar.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).

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.

Into the Wild

2009-10-05T13:30:00Z

DIY Animal Costume Kits by Cassie Divine

No one says you have to pull off a Martha for Halloween. (Yet you insist.) Then again, no one knows that your famous cupcakes hail from Costco and that you hem pants with a stapler.

Keep things easy breezy with a DIY animal costume kit from local crafter Cassie Divine. Pitch in a pint-size sweat suit and fifteen minutes to two hours of your time — depending on the creature — and Divine will provide presewn felt add-ons, needle, thread, and instructional YouTube links.

Options range from the familiar (dog, cat, bunny) to the unexpected (turtle, koala) to the extinct (dino). And your tyke’s finished getup promises to rake in both smiles and sugar spoils. Divine even adds some extra sweetness by donating 10 percent of profits to the World Wildlife Fund.

Trick and treat.

Available online at etsy.com.

Photo: Courtesy of DIY Costumes

PERUSE
Preschool Gallery Hour
What: A free monthly visiting hour customized for wee gallery-goers with movement classes, performances, and art projects.
Why: Sendak’s in the house.
When: Sun., 10 a.m. (Plus all second Suns. thru Nov. 8.)
Where: San Francisco Contemporary Jewish Museum, 736 Mission St., b/t Third & Fourth Sts. (415-655-7800).

ENTERTAIN
Mill Valley Children’s FilmFest Opening Party
What: Mini cinephiles screen kid flicks from Northern Europe before partaking in after-party festivities like face painting, gourmet finger-food, and additional flicks.
Why: They like to watch.
When: Sun., 12:30 p.m.
Where: 142 Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Ave., at Bayview Ave., Mill Valley (415-874-6833). Tix $5 with code PARTY11.

BUY
BabyLegs Sock Gift Boxes
What: Sweetly wrapped gripper socks come in color-coordinated sets of six for mixing and matching.
Why: Sock it to ’em.
When: He kicked one off — three blocks back.
Where: Aldea Ninos, 3338 17th St., b/t Valencia & Mission. (415-865-9807).

Shake That Bootie

2009-10-01T08:30:00Z

Stonz Outerwear

Rev your engines. The annual race to get the kids bundled and out the door is on.

In pole position is Stonz, the Canadian-based outfitter that makes easy-on, easy-off booties, mittens, and hats.

Sack-like booties glide over chubby toddler feet and shoes (no need to remove indoor kicks before heading outside). Adjustable toggles at ankle and calf ensure a snug fit, while rubberized soles keep Junior from skidding out of control.

Standard booties come with a fleece liner and are coated to fend off wind and rain. Need more protection? The company also makes extra-plush Sherpa-fleece liners.

Mittens handle just as well, with no menacing thumb slots for tots under 2. Wide openings at the wrist (with toggles for tightening) mean no pit crew is needed to get them on (and keep them there).

Add a fleece hat for the victory lap.

And it’s full speed ahead.

Available online at stonzwear.com.

25% off DwellStudio Toys
Stuff toy boxes (and stockings, if you’re a planner) with Dwell’s newest bear, owl, or bunny plush animals. Plus, save on mind blocks, stacking rings, magnetic animals, soft blocks, and animal pillows. Enter code DAILYCANDY09 at checkout. Dwell on this too long and you’ll miss out; valid thru Oct. 8.

Juice Box Heroes CD
They’ve taken your favorite tunes (“Sweet Caroline,” “Material Girl,” “We’re Not Gonna Take It”), retitled them (“Sweet Clementines,” “Cheerio World,” “We Are Going to Bake It”), and added clever new lyrics for little rockers.

bTrendie Online Sample Sale
Invitation-only private sale site for moms, babes, and kids now open for business. Check out deals from the likes of Chaiken Maternity, Maxi-Cosi car seats, and Quinny strollers. Enter invitation code DCKids on homepage.

Photos: Courtesy of Stonz; Courtesy of DwellStudio; Courtesy of Juice Box Heroes; Courtesy of bTrendie

Animation Domination

2009-09-28T13:30:00Z

The Walt Disney Family Museum Opens

The puffy white gloves. Those giant yellow booties. That familiar high-pitched squeak. No wonder he was your first cartoon crush.

Share a blast from your past at The Walt Disney Family Museum, opening Thursday. With ten audio- and video-dense galleries, plus a cafe and gift shop, there’s enough there to keep the whole clan enchanted.

Curious kids of all ages can play at interactive stations positioned at Seven Dwarfs-friendly height, ride an elevator tricked out like a ’20s-era train, or take in a flick at the downstairs screening room. Plus, art classes, scheduled to start early next year, will feature hands-on animation instruction for both kids and grown-ups.

Oh, Mickey, you’re so fine.

The Walt Disney Family Museum, at the Presidio’s Main Post, 104 Montgomery Street, between Lincoln Boulevard and Sheridan Avenue (415-345-6800 or waltdisney.org).

Photo: Courtesy of The Walt Disney Family Museum

READ
Lost in Spice
What: Spanglish virtuosa and best-selling author/illustrator Judy Schachner reads from the newest Skippyjon Jones romp.
Why: It’s the cat’s meow.
When: Sat., Oakland, 11 a.m.; Sun., Menlo Park, 11:30 a.m.; Corte Madera, 2 p.m.
Where: A Great Good Place for Books, 6120 La Salle Ave., b/t Moraga Ave. & Mountain Blvd., Oakland (510-339-8210‎); Kepler’s, 1010 El Camino Real, b/t Menlo & Santa Cruz Aves., Menlo Park (650-324-4321)‎; Book Passage, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., at Sandpiper Cir., Corte Madera (415-927-0960).

DANCE
ODC Family Dance Classes
What: Moms, pops, and tots perfect salsa, hip-hop, and African moves together at the eclectic Mission dance space.
Why: One more time, from the top.
When: Ongoing. Sun., 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Where: ODC Dance Commons, 351 Shotwell St., b/t 17th & 18th Sts. (415-863-9830).

LISTEN
Frances England Mini Concert
What: The local songstress belts faves from Fascinating Creatures and Family Tree as a Tricycle Music Fest West headliner.
Why: The savages need soothing.
When: Sun., 2 p.m.
Where: Marina Branch Library, 1890 Chestnut St., at Webster St. (415-355-2823).

Color Me Happy

2009-09-24T08:30:00Z

Millions of Colors Girls' Clothing

One second she’s all smiles. Next thing you know she’s stopped, dropped, and rolled her way into a meltdown.

Some people call this drama; you prefer “colorful.”

Which is why you’ll be tickled pink (gray, purple, and maybe even plaid) by Millions of Colors, the new clothing line conceived for minis with big personalities.

The knit-driven collection is designed to be mixed and matched — you know, to suit her every mood. For fall, pair the demure oatmeal mock-neck sweater jacket with a check-me-out pumpkin-striped tee. Or layer the girly-girl gray-striped skirt over material-girl fuchsia stirrup leggings.

Designer Rujira Lawonvisut honed her talents at Gap, Theory, and Urban Outfitters before moving over to Millions of Colors.

Making her more than ready to hit center stage.

Available online at lilswanky.com. To see styles, go to millionsofcolorsny.com.

25% off Zid Zid Kids at The Mini Social
The online private sale site for babies, moms, and kids is giving you an extra 25% off the Zid Zid sale opening today. Animal cushions (reg. $44), $19.50; bus and plane backpacks (reg. $48), $24. Enter DC25 at checkout; valid thru Oct. 1.

Birdie’s Big-Girl Shoes
We’re head over high heels for DailyCandy illustrator Sujean Rim’s first children’s book. Combining collage and watercolor art with a charming tale of a little girl eager to grow up, it’s a must-have mom-and-me read for little ladies with big dreams.

Ella’s Kitchen
The organic baby food that’s all the rage on the other side of the pond launches stateside. Convenient pouches make it easy for moms on the go; older kids will want to pop smoothie fruits for lunch.

Photos: Mats Rudels / Courtesy of Millions of Colors; Courtesy of Zid Zid; Courtesy of Sujean Rim; Courtesy of Ella’s Kitchen

Take a Ride: Our Favorite Strollers

2009-09-23T15:45:00Z

Baby’s first ride will undoubtedly not be his (or your) last.

1. Bugaboo Cameleon, starts at $880.
2. Micralite Toro, stroller only, $524.95; newborn system, $699.95.
3. BOB Jogging, starts at $299.
4. Baby Jogger City Mini, $229.99.
5. Maclaren Volo, $130.
6. Orbit Baby, starts at $600.
7. Quinny Zapp, $219.99.
8. Tri Mode Valco Baby, $480.
9. Phil & Ted’s Vibe, $699.99.

Photos: Courtesy of Bugaboo; Courtesy of Micralite Toro; Courtesy of BOB; Courtesy of Baby Jogger; Courtesy of Maclaren; Courtesy of Orbit Baby; Courtesy of Quinny; Courtesy of Valco Baby; Courtesy of Phil & Ted’s

Dream On: Baby and Toddler Bedding

2009-09-23T15:30:00Z

And down will come baby, cradle and all (the uber adorable bedding texiles for your little designer-in-training).

1. Serena & Lily, Dylan three-piece set, $569
2. Dwell Studio for Target Birds, $10.99-$34.99
3. Aunt Bucky Mix-n-Match, starts at $40
4. Boodalee, twin shams and duvet, $110; full shams and duvet, $140
5. Kideko, twin bed sets, $125
6. Rikshaw Design, three-piece crib set, $380
7. Fred the Dog, starts at €15.
8. Kukunest, three-piece toddler set, $95; crib sheets, $15

Photos: Courtesy of Serena & Lily; Courtesy of Target; Courtesy of Aunt Bucky; Courtesy of Boodalee; Courtesy of Kideko; Courtesy of Rikshaw Design Bedding; Courtesy of Fred the Dog; Courtesy of Kukunest

Easy Rider

2009-09-21T13:30:00Z

Butterfly Limo Airport Service

You’re no stranger to toddlers in turbulence. (That carry-on is so crammed with pacifying tricks it commands a seat of its own.) So why you rely on a cab to haul your motley crew to the airport is anybody’s guess.

Next time, make an online reservation with Butterfly Limo. The fam-friendly car service specializes in chauffeuring you and the young’uns to and from Bay Area airports.

Depending on the size of your entourage, owner John Batista will dispatch a clean, spacious town car, SUV, or van. Your chariot arrives early, with child seats or bases and a driver who happily assists with the loading and unloading of your gear. All for the same price as said taxi. (You know, the one that never arrived.)

Settle in, close your eyes, and relax while you can.

You’ve got a bumpy ride ahead.

Butterfly Limo (877-410-8301 or butterflylimo.com).

MARCH
Sixth Annual Burlingame Pet Parade
What: A marching band-accompanied cavalcade of pets, costumed owners, and stuffed animals, complete with ribbons and prizes.
Why: Strut your pup.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.
Where: Broadway, b/t Chula Vista & Capuchino Aves., Burlingame.

LATHER
Soap Making with Brittany Andrews
What: Tykes transform oatmeal, cukes, and other household items into fragrant soaps.
Why: Come clean.
When: Sat., 2-4 p.m.
Where: Paxton Gate’s Curiosities for Kids, 766 Valencia St., b/t 18th & 19th Sts. (415-252-9990). Reservations recommended.

CREATE
Kids’ Day with Alex Beard
What: Wee imaginations enter the creative whirl of Beard’s The Jungle Grapevine with abundant art materials, storytelling, and a book signing.
Why: Into the wild blue yonder.
When: Thurs., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Where: Menlo Park Library Rec Center, 800 Alma St., near Melke Dr., Menlo Park (650-330-2500).

My Birthday Party Is Better than Yours

2009-09-17T08:30:00Z

Birthday Party Essentials

Put on your party hats, people. It’s time to plan.

Get the Word Out
Make a good first impression with a Paper Culture invite. The new online stationer combines modern, fun designs with 100 percent recycled premium card stock. Bonus: Add a personalized message for free. Plus, through the end of the year, give them your guest list and they’ll address for no extra cost. Pay for the stamps and they’ll send your invites out.

Open Wide
Fly in an Ice Cream Social in a Box from L.A.’s finest, Dandy Don’s (we’ve tasted it, and it’s well worth the shipping). Smother vanilla bean, chocolate, Harry’s Berries strawberry, and/or cappuccino crunch with toppers like brownie crumbles, caramel, nuts, M&Ms, crushed sugar cones, and more. The kit comes complete with spoons, napkins, and soda jerk hats for authenticity.

Banner Birthday
Waste not, want it all? Get it with Green Planet Parties’s party decorations in a bag. The hand-sewn, made-to-order, ecofriendly decorations include a Happy Birthday banner, table runner, and ten reusable goodie bags. Or save time with premade loot bags.

Big Bash
Hit it out of the park with a Birchangel handmade pinata. Take your pick from the designs on the site (the cherry sprinkles cupcake is the best-seller) or create your own. But plan in advance — delivery takes four to six weeks.

Now go blow it out.

Looking for more birthday party ideas? Check out our local editions.

25% off Miss Brittany’s Organic Preschool Fun Dough
In honor of National Playdough Day (missed it? It was yesterday) Miss Brittany is giving DailyCandy Kids readers 25% off. Her deluxe gift set comes with three seven-ounce containers, a rolling pin, organic apron, and four wooden stampers. Enter code DC25 at checkout; valid thru Sept. 24.

A-Z Place Mat Coloring Pad
You’ve got one hand stirring pasta and the other prying a whining toddler from your leg. Get the hand you need by setting him up with a sheet from this place mat pad. He’ll keep busy and you’ll get dinner on the table — at least for the next 26 days.

Have I Got a Book for You!
Meet Al Foxword, the smoothest salesman we’ve ever met in the world of children’s books. You’ll appreciate the commentary on our consumer society; your kids will like Al’s zany tactics. Still not convinced? Just buy it.