Word to the baby
He can’t talk yet — but your tot has major ‘tude! Show the world his sassy side with these adorable cotton onesies, each with a message printed in soy-based ink. My favorites: “Cuter than Suri” and “Hair Club President.” MemoBaby wraps the onesies in a reusable burp cloth; portions of the proceeds go to kid-related charities. $20.
Slog on!
Right. February in the Northwest . . . inside much? Break free and hit those muddy trails with this chill new line of baby bad-weather gear. Oregon’s Outside Baby really gets Northwest hip; its line of tot technical gear is sustainable and biodegradable; some of it’s even reversible! Check out the company’s groovy messenger bags and this luxe cooler backpack — one part insulated cooler, one part backpack — with insulated bottle pockets and even a cell phone holder. $79.99; kid gear, $45 and up.
Woobee woobee doo …
I don’t know what it means, but I know I like the Woobee! Another foul-weather favorite, this blanket is crazy soft on one side, wind- and water-resistant on the other, with loops so you can tie it to your stroller to keep your sweet pea snuggly. Washable, created by a local mom, made in Seattle, and totally, completely gorgeous. Woo-woo! $70 and up.
Bright kid
Out of the darkness she comes . . . and now everyone can see her, thanks to her supercool light-up backpack! Your little superhero doesn’t have to know that this pack is all about safety. The Britepack features motion-activated LED lights (and replaceable AA batteries) that flash along the top of the pack. In toddler size or full size and available with or without wheels. $39.99 and up.
Dream cream
Here’s a new entry in the yummy and natural baby spa products category. Love Me Baby Me is hypoallergenic and free of parabens, synthetic fragrances and other nasties. The Creamy Cream is incredibly thick; the Hair Putty lets tots rock the spiky look without petroleum-based chemicals. Smells like little kids should. $19.95 and up.
Super soaker
Wrap your splash monster in softness with this sweet hooded towel, created by a bunch of Aussie moms who couldn’t find muslin baby stuff anywhere. Aden+Anais also makes great baby washcloths and swaddling blankets, all of breathable cotton muslin for a unique waffle-like texture. $18 and up.
Use your noodle
Cure cabin fever on the double with nifty kits from Noodlehead. Can’t tell a glue stick from a lipstick? No problem! Even craft-impaired parents can operate these simple kits, which include clear instructions and everything you need to make a painting, treasure box, custom purse and more. Our kid tester tried out the Young Picasso Canvas Painting Kit — big hit! Put a few away for a rainy day. About $20.
Tres poofay!
Does it get any cuter than this? These retro-sweet pouffe dresses are made by hand one at a time by Seattle mom Kathleen Buchanan, a private-sale regular who’s about to need a staff! She creates gorgeous contrast-lined, high-sheen cotton dresses and skirt sets in chic prints with funky pom-pom trim. Each one’s a little masterpiece! $38-$72; email kathbuchanan@gmail.com for a link to her web album.
Totable coat
Can’t get your critter to carry his own coat? He’ll want to carry this one — especially after he packs his all-important toy stash into this cute, dual-purpose backpack. When the weather turns, he turns it inside out and voilà! He has a little windbreaker with breathable mesh lining and useful pockets. The GO! Jacket is made from recycled fabric, and the Kent company makes a donation to the Sustainable Schools Initiative. Stylin’ and smart! $34.95.
Packin’ attitude!
Maybe I’m a little too into pirates these days. I blame Johnny Depp. But there’s no denying it: This backpack’s got style, of the scallywag variety! It’s small enough for preschoolers, but big enough to hold a whole lotta Hot Wheels. Check out the lime polka dot model, too. This online business, The Gift Whiz — created by a Bothell mom — lets you pick your style, pick your colors and trim, and even personalize. Great prices! From $14.
Stir mix-a-lot
Unleash their inner Emeril with these wonderfully creative kits for kids. Each includes the dry ingredients to make a tasty treat, and a colorful, two-sided “safari baking mat,” complete with fun facts, math challenges, even a little Spanish lesson. One side is for ages 4-9 and the other for ages 9 and older. The brownies are incredibly fudgy and delicious! About $5 each; at Whole Foods or Amazon.
Butt lovely
Skip the sulfates and pass on the parabens. These natural newborn-care products from Butt Naked Baby are fragrance- and chemical-free. I love the nifty shea butter stick for leak-free lotion-on-the-go — great for a chapped kid’s backpack, too! No animal testing, lots of yummy natural ingredients. From $7; for a list of retailers, visit the Butt Naked Baby website.
Diaper diva
If only my laptop would fit in this bag! My diapering days are done (yay me!), but this diaper bag from Zosephine is such a knockout, I’m using it anyway. When I carry it, no one notices I’m still wearing my yoga pants. It’s just that chic. There are plenty of pockets and a nylon changing pad, disguised as a fresh, modern messenger bag for the hippest of mamas. $116, but Mother’s Day is coming.
Mighty tidy
Got a tumble of junk in your purse? Check out these posh little organizer bags from Goober Baby. Clear vinyl fronts make it easy to see what’s where in there. The “change purse” holds a couple of diapers and some wipes; the tote bags can hold snacks, Band-aids, or your iPod for those elusive “me” moments. $18-$30, and great gift sets for $68.
Clip it good!
Banish blanket bailout forever! These gorgeous, supersoft blankets from Secure 2 Me feature a high-quality clip at each corner, so blankie stays put no matter how much blankie monster squirms. In luxe fabrics such as “minky” and fleece, or sun-blocking fabric to protect blankie monster from harmful rays. Shower gift? $29-$42.
