DailyCandy Kids San Francisco

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

Sitting Pretty

2009-11-16T13:30:00Z

Hello Hanna's Get-Set Place Mats

Between the hair tugging, eye gouging, and mashed potatoes down your shirt, dinnertime with your little pig feels like an unwinnable food fight.

Get your lap (and the peace) back by outfitting the table with Hello Hanna’s Get-Set Place Mats.

The nifty paper mats map the lay of the table land (fork on the left, spoon beside knife). But a closer looks reveals a meal’s worth of contented play. Kiddo can decorate a pop-up figure (jungle animal, robot, or dolly) with removable stickers (faces, pets, gears) and use crayons to doodle inside the activity area.

Instead of waving the white flag, you’ll be encouraging good table manners and creative play.

Ready, Get-Set, go.

Available at Lola of North Beach, 1415 Grant Avenue, between Green and Union Streets (415-781-1817 or lolaofnorthbeach.com); Five Ten, 510 Waverley Street, between University and Hamilton Avenues, Palo Alto (650-322-4510 or fivetengifts.com); Birch, 357 Main Street, between 1st and 2nd Streets, Los Altos (650-948-5800 or birchfinepaper.com); online at hellohanna.com.

CHOO
Golden Gate Express
What: The Garden Railway chugs back into mini San Fran with interactive trains and six new landmarks, including the Castro Theater.
Why: This is no whistle stop.
When: Thurs.-Apr. 18, 2010. Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Where: Conservatory of Flowers, 100 JFK Dr., b/t Conservatory Drs. E. & W., Golden Gate Park (415-831-2090).

WATCH
San Francisco Hip-Hop DanceFest
What: A global posse of dance companies pop, lock, and tap to street-inspired beats.
Why: It’s the new style.
When: Fri.-Sun. Times vary.
Where: Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, 3301 Lyon St., at Bay St. Tickets online at cityboxoffice.com or by calling 415-392-4400.

EXPERIENCE
The Velveteen Rabbit Family Studio to Stage
What: A double sawbuck buys entry to any Velveteen Rabbit performance plus a special kids’ and grown-ups movement workshop.
Why: Inspiration meet perspiration.
When: Workshop, Thurs., 4-5:30 p.m.; performances thru Dec. 13.
Where: Workshop, ODC School, 351 Shotwell St., b/t 17th & 18th Sts. (415-863-6606); performance, Novellus Theater, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St., at 3rd St. (415-978-2787). Tickets online at odcdance.org.

Photo: Courtesy of Hello Hanna

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

Chew on This

2009-11-09T13:30:00Z

Lifefactory's Multisensory Circular Teether

Wallet. Sunglasses. Car keys. When Baby’s cutting a tooth you reach for whatever’s nearby. So long as it soothes the pain and restores the peace.

Next time the gums swell, save the contents of your bag from the saliva bath. Lifefactory’s new circular teether is safer, cleaner, and just as convenient.

The lightweight, medical grade silicone toy comes in three sunshiny colors (pink, yellow, blue) for stylish layering. Plus, its textured surface and ring-shaped design make it easy for Baby to hold, chomp, and explore.

But the genius part? You wear it like a bracelet.

So it’s always on hand.

Available at Sprout San Francisco, 1828 Union Street, between Laguna and Octavia Streets (415-359-9205 or sproutsanfrancisco.com).

LAUGH
The Mama Monologues with Anne Lamott
What: The Writing Mamas presents an evening of food and wine along with the wit and wisdom of the famed writer. Proceeds benefit writer-in-need and “godmother” of the group, Jacquelyn Mitchard.
Why: Mom’s the word.
When: Sat., 6-9 p.m.
Where: Christ Church, Campbell Hall and Garden, 70 Santa Rosa Ave., at San Carlos Ave., Sausalito. Tickets online at writingmamas.com. Info at 415-233-2483.

SIGN UP
Elbows off the Table
What: It’s a Piece of Cake’s Simla Akyol helps kids ages 5-12 get ready for holiday schmoozing.
Why: They’re not to the manners born.
When: Nov. 30 & Dec 1.
Where: Crown & Crumpet Tea Salon, 207 Ghirardelli Square, 900 N. Point St., at Larkin St. Info at 415-987-1946.

Photo: Courtesy of LifeFactory

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