KidStyleFile

Today’s post written by Angela

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Today I’d like to introduce you to a wonderful new store that I discovered recently: The Toy Bug – www.thetoybug.com.au.

As you might expect, The Toy Bug stocks toys. No just any toys though: Jo Debnam, proprietor of the The Toy Bug stocks one of the finest selections I have seen online in Australia, and the prices are quite amazing! I have already placed 2 orders at The Toy Bug – after the first one was so good I had to dive straight back on in – and I can tell you that the service is an absolute knockout. I cannot speak highly enough!

So you can feel the love at The Toy Bug as I have, Jo at The Toy Bug is giving all KidStyleFile readers 10% off store-wide until 31 July 2009. Enter the code ‘ksf10′ to redeem.

I must say that I have found it very challenging to write this post and narrow it down to a few picks for you: EVERYTHING at The Toy Bug is meritous. I suggest browsing all the brands and then checking out all the categories (Pretend Play - how adorable is Sandra’s Wardrobe??, Novelty Toys – I just purchased a stash of mini compasses, tape measure and stampers for party bags, and Lachie’s Favourites: Jo’s son, Lachie has Autism Spectrum Disorder, and these are his favourite toys) so you don’t miss anything.

Those of you who have been looking for an award-winning Gyro Car, jump now while the discount is there and nab yourself an super bargain!

Some my very favourite toys are in the superlative lineup at The Toy Bug. We have all of these at home. They have been truly tried and tested and have come up trumps: buy with confidence!

Active People Bilibo – this simple open-ended toy goes on and on, powered by your child’s imagination. Is it a spinner, a bed, a scoop, a hat, a hill or a shell? It’s all of these and more!

Quercetti Georello Gears Go Round – Italian made quality, and a delightful toy: build your creation, crank the handle and watch the gears spin. A great way to teach cause and effect.

Egg Shape Sorter – a wonderful flashback to my own childhood, and an essential motor skill development toy for every littlie.

Tap A Shape Corkboard-  Perfect hammer and nail fun for the over 4 set. Comes complete with board, wooden shapes, tacks and hammer.

Fat Brain Toys Dado Cube – A construction toy with a very pleasing aesthetic. Leave it on the coffee table for kids and adults alike to enjoy.

Magnetic Maze – A game for one or two players. Set your own rules for completion. Good for hand-eye co-ordination, logic development and as a science lesson to teach how and why magnets work.

Prices marked below in red are applicable with code ‘ksf10′ until 31 July 2009 only.

A. Egg Shape Sorter $8.50 less 10% = $7.65
B. Tap a Shape Corkboard $15.00 less 10% = $13.50
C. Quercetti Georello Gears Go Round $25.99 less 10% = $23.39
D. Hickory Dickory Clock $39.00 less 10% = $35.10
E. Gyro Car $100.00 less 10% = $90.00
F. Fat Brain Toys USA made Dado Cube Set $49.95 less 10% = $44.95
G. Sparkle T Pull-along Jaffa the Dog toy $19.95 less 10% = $17.95
H. Wanju My Treetop Hideaway $99.00 less 10% = $89.10
I. Wooden Insect Self-Stampers $2.00 less 10% = $1.80
J. Wooden Breakfast Food Board $15.95 less 10% = $14.35
K. Magnetic Maze $24.00 less 10% = $21.60
L. Sandra’s Wardrobe Wooden Doll with Fashion wardrobe  $22.00 less 10% = $19.80
M. Petit Jour Paris Elmer Soft Block Set $26.00 $20.00 less 10% = $18.00

The Toy Bug stock quality brands including Active People, Anamalz, Boyle, Crocodile Creek, Djeco, EDDU Toy, Fat Brain Toy Co, Fiesta Crafts, GUND, Le Toy Van, JELLYCAT, Mamas & Papas, Manhattan Toy Company, Melissa & Doug, Petit Jour Paris, Sparkle T, Spiegelburg, TOLO, Toys Pure, Voila, WANJU and Wonderworld.

The Toy Bug charge $9.90 flat Australia-wide (with 3 product exceptions) and send via Express or Registered Post. Read the full shipping and delivery information here. Internatinalorders are welcome. Layby is also available.

Today’s post written by Edwina

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I was chatting to a friend the other day and she mentioned that she had picked out what she wanted for Mother’s Day. This statement took me a little by surprise because, firstly, I usually leave the present decisions up to The Dad and The Kids, and secondly, I am not that organised. But it certainly has got me thinking, in fact, I haven’t stopped thinking about what little treasure I could find for myself to celebrate that aspect of my life. Why should the kids have all the fun?!

So when I found out La Toriana – www.latoriana.com.au – was having a special 3 day sale…. well I just had to have a little look and see what little lovelies I could find.

Yes, the lovely Elizabeth at La Toriana is treating us all to a 20% off storewide sale (excluding the Tea Princess Winter Collection and Tummy Bear) for 3 huge days ending 9am 29 April 2009. To get the discount enter the code KidStyleFile at checkout. Make a comment on the La Toriana blog and Elizabeth will send you a free gift with your order as well!! Yeah for more presents!!

My first stop was straight to the Mums and Dads section, and I was not disappointed. They have a wonderful range of Deshabille (pronounced dez-ha-bee-ay) sleepwear made from natural fabrics and beautifully detailed. Of course, completely ignoring the coming of the colder nights, I couldn’t resist falling head over heels for the Babydoll ‘Jardin’ PJ’s from Lazybones, it is adorable, they also have matching PJ’s for girls.  Elizabeth also has a great collection of VanChi Nappy bags for Mum and Dad, and with 20% off, now is the time to grab one for yourself and one for Father’s Day!

With gift giving in mind, my next stop was the gift section. I always seem to get in the mood for stockpiling as Winter beckons, and the present cupboard in no exception. The selection is great, and there are so many things that will go click, click, clicking into my shopping cart. The Lavender Babushka Dolls are perfect tucked under the pillow to aid in restful slumber, the Guardsmen Skittle set is soooooo cute, and I am a complete sucker for Pandas.

The opportunity for 20% off shouldn’t pass without a thorough scan of the fashion in-store. Elizabeth stocks some wonderful brands at great prices. Head for the Specials section for some hugely discounted goods on sale from Tea Princes, Eternal Creation, Britt Designs, Finnigan Finn, just to name a few.

Prices in red below are after 20% discount is deducted. These prices apply with code until 9am on 29 April 2009 only.

1. Panda Anamalz $9.95, $7.95
2. 3 Piece gift set Organic Blanket, Owl and Hat $62.95, $50.35
3. Cheeky Little Soles – Cuddles Duck $31.95, $25.55
4. Babushka Lavender Dolls $14.95, $11.95
5. Babydoll Mums PJ’s by Lazybones $59.95, $47.95
6. The Traveller Designer Nappy Bag by Vanchi – Rust $149.95, $119.95
7. Britt Design – Reversible Shaggy Vest $49.95, $31.95
8. Eternal Creation Magic Forest Party Dress$69.95, $25.18
9. Eternal Creation Maroon/Olive/Beige Striped Vest $45.95, $22.05
10. Desperate Housewife Apron $25.95, $20.75
11. A Wooden Skittle Set… Queens Guardsmen $36.95, $29.55

La Toriana stock a big range of products from annieB, Britt, Tippie Toes, Cheeky Little Soles, Dobbin and Drum, Eternal Creation, Finnigan Finn, Hey Baby, Huggalugs, Deshabille, Vanchi, Kee Ka, Lambykins, Oobi, Toys Pure, BumpBuddy, Lazybones, Gertie and Me, Britt, Thurlby Farm, Kids Kitchen, Grommets, Mini Whisk, Annabel Trends, Vintage Kids, Babylicious, Penny Scallan, Tabitha Emma, Tickled Pink, Djeco, Anamlaz, Three Little Trees, Nana Huchy, Jasnor, Footprints, Tummy Bear, Tea Princess, Alimrose Designs, Fairy Floss Creations, Cuski, and Gaia, Nanny Pickle, Oopsidaisi, G&T Kids, Eco Peko, TikiBoo Kids, Wild Things of Noosa, and prem baby brands Tummy Bear and Early Birds.

La Toriana charge $7.95 postage Australia-wide.  Orders over $150.00 receive FREE shipping and a FREE gift.

Today’s post written by Kat

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There will be more green then red floating about Christmas this year, with a huge shift in consumer consciousness making all that is eco-friendly and organic number 1 on most people’s wish list. And rightly so – check out these ultra-gorgeous buys for kiddies which will keep Mother Earth happy too!

First up: the tree. Aside from letting them go crazy with Clag and pasta and creating their own special pieces, Biome (one of my new fave stores) has awesome fair-trade decorations that are bright and festive enough for kids, and will look chic on plastique too! This box of Assorted Handmade Decorations is handmade in Bangladesh and just $17.95.

Generation Wonder stock only fair-trade items, and is indeed a wonderland of beautiful gift ideas. Check out these totally biodegradable Mobile Homes by Kidsonroof ($44.90) which allows kids to create, construct and decorate to their heart’s content. Plus it makes for a novel place to store toys.

For a gorgeous keepsake I just love the Barefoot Mother and baby Elephant soft toy set ($43.50, buy together or separately for $19.75) – a percentage of proceeds go to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, each one is handmade and individual, and they come in a variety of colours.

For something simple guaranteed to keep them entertained and active for hours, a Fairtrade Skipping Rope is a great stocking filler at $14.99. Or let your little one say it loud and proud with these cool Eco tees by Tiny Revolutionary ($34.95)!

Eco Child have a huuuge range of eco-friendly products, including toys like the very funky Anamalz wooden toy, um, animals, ($9.95) which are not only cute but are also made from renewable resources, are non-toxic (always a plus), and a portion of sales is donated to various wildlife charities. Aw, feel those warm and fuzzies!

Eco Child also stock practical ideas such as these Foogo Sippy Cups ($24.95) which are unbreakable, BPA-free and FDA-Approved, which is all A-OK in my book.

Got someone super-fussy to buy for? Eco Child have it covered – stuff their stocking with Organic Cotton Balls ($7.95), which are practical, versatile and top quality. I kid, I kid, (though they are of course, very nice!) – Mums will love the range of natural beauty products (try Bod Bath Salts Princess Blend $14.95) and mums-to-be will adore these cute and comfy PJ pants by Hot Milk ($49.95).

And finally (and most importantly): clothes. There are so many gorgeous organic labels out there, and not all of them are beige (sorry, ‘natural’).

Purebaby is one of my faves, and Baby’s Got Style have a great selection. I’m loving the idea of this pretty striped knit tank dress ($44.95) as a lightweight summer option, carried through to winter with tights and a skivvy; or for boys the khaki stripe overalls ($39.95) for something cutesy but cool. The Purebaby website also has a great range of basics and premmie wear.

Gaia Organic Cotton is another well-loved label, and with good reason: the certified 100% organic cotton is whipped into beautiful creations like the Babydoll Dress ($44.95) and Grandpa Top ($39.95) or these incredibly pretty Blue Bell Botties ($29.95)!

For something a bit funky, Mini Eco have a massive range of brands including Speesees, whose bright and colourful tanks are just $25.95, and these ultra cool tees by Sckoon ($24.95). Baby Blend also do cute prints on organic tees ($29.95 a pop, my fave is “Crabby“!) as do Kee-Ka at ShopHouse ($26.00).

Wishing you all a green, clean, and very happy Festive Season!

Please check individual sites for postage costs and delivery details.

Today’s post written by Miki

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Ding ding ding!  Time please gentlemen! (or should that be ladies?)  This is La Toriana’s – www.latoriana.com.au – last sale for 2008, so it’s time to get your last orders before Christmas in.

‘What sale?’ I hear you say.  Well, Elizabeth is giving us 15% off store-wide until December 10th so that those who still have Christmas presents to organise (*cough*me*cough*) can grab them in time for the big day. But as I said above, this is her last sale for 2008!

To receive your 15% off, enter ‘RUDOLPH’ at checkout.  And do it fast – the first 10 orders using this code will receive a FREE Chrissie present from Elizabeth!

Even more than that, all orders placed between now and December 14th will go into the draw to receive one of the stunning AnnieB Play Palaces, valued at over $310.00! So get ordering pronto!!

What should you order though?  Well, Elizabeth has helpfully put together a ‘Toys And Gifts Under $20′.  It’s got loads in there (142 products!) so you’ll find plenty of inspiration for stocking stuffers and things to put under the tree.

I recommend grabbing a few extra bits and pieces too, as every year I find that there’s at least one child (a family friend’s kid etc) who I’ve forgotten to buy for.  If you have a spare gift or two stashed away, no problemo!

One of the products which I think has universal appeal for kids is the Anamalz range, which La Toriana has in plenty.  The cute little wooden animals have real personality and are great, lasting quality – plus, at only $9.95 $8.45ea they are really affordable. Anamalz have four new critters out too: the panda, the black ram, the tiger and the festive little reindeer!

I also love the cool new unisex range from Wild Things of Noosa – the black animal print and the yellow dogs print look equally good on girls or boys (hint: this makes it ideal as an emergency present! stash away a hat and shorts set) and they absolutely ooze surfie cool, man.  The Spring Cherries print is adorable for little girls too!

Here are some of my favourites:

1. Djeco Puzzle – Wizard 36 Piece, $27.00 $21.60 $18.36
2. Locolili Girls Reversible 100% Cotton Headband, $10.95ea $9.31
3. Baby Girl Gift Pack, $112.95 $96.00
4. Mousy Mouse In Knitted Jumper, $24.95 $21.20
5. G&T Baby Big, Placemat & Cushion Set, $72.95 $62.00
6. Wild Things of Noosa Black Animal Print Shorts, $28.95 $24.60
7. Anamalz Music CD and Bonus Anamal, $19.95 $16.95
8. ‘I’m The Best Xmas Present’ Romper, $14.95 $12.70 And who could argue with that?
9. New Release Anamalz – Reindeer, Panda, Black Ram and Tiger, $9.95ea $8.45
10. Wild Things of Noosa Yellow Dogs Bucket Hat, $26.95 $22.90

La Toriana stock a big range of products from annieB, Britt, Cheeky Little Soles, Dobbin and Drum, Eternal Creation, Finnigan Finn, Hey Baby, Huggalugs, Vanchi, Kee Ka, Lambykins, Oobi, Toys Pure, BumpBuddy, Lazybones, Gertie and Me, Britt, Thurlby Farm, Kids Kitchen, Grommets, Mini Whisk, Annabel Trends, Vintage Kids, Babylicious, Penny Scallan, Tabitha Emma, Tickled Pink, Djeco, Anamlaz, Three Little Trees, Nana Huchy, Jasnor, Footprints, Tummy Bear, Tea Princess, Alimrose Designs, Fairy Floss Creations, Cuski, and Gaia, and new to La Toriana, Britt, Nanny Pickle, Oopsidaisi, G&T Kids, Eco Peko, TikiBoo Kids, Wild Things of Noosa, and prem baby brands Tummy Bear and Early Birds.

La Toriana charge $7.50 postage Australia-wide.

Today’s post written by Angela

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Ready? Steady. GO!!! It’s the La Toriana - www.latoriana.com.au – 48 hour Pre-Xmas Sale!

Scoop 30% off the following labels: Oobi, Penny Scallan, Britt, Djeco, Finnigan Finn, Eternal Creation, Grommets, Huggalugs, Kee-Ka and Lazybones. This discount also applies to items from these designers already on sale, which means some products are discounted by <quick calculation> up to 80%!!!!!

Enter code ‘Twinkle’ at checkout to redeem. This sale runs while stocks, finishing at midnight on December 4.

Elizabeth at La Toriana has assembled a fine range of clothes and accessories for babies and kids, and a great selection of toys. Elizabeth is making Christmas shopping very easy for us too, with a section of La T just for Christmas 2008.

I highly recommend the Anamalz range: we have the whole collection, and now there are 4 new characters for us to collect!

Eco friendly, and very affordable, these are great stocking fillers. The Xmas set is lots of fun; my kids love to make up Christmas scenarios any time of the year, and the CD is quite addictive (“the Anamalz are so excite-e-d, tomorrow is Christmas Day, to-mo-rrow is Christ-mas daaay!”).

If you’re looking for Xmas day attire, you just can’t go past the Oobi party dresses, and matching bloomers for girls up to 2 years (we had these too: I love them because they do wonderfully as tops after they are no longer feasible as dresses, and the detachable rosette means you can dress them up or down). For boys up to 2 years, the Dino egg set is both cool, and comfy.

For kids of any ages Egglings are wonderful. Plant the little seeds in the Japanese ceramic egg (you have to crack the top open first!), and watch them grow. These are great gifts, as they teach kids about how things grow, and also a sense of responsibility and care, as they have to be watered daily.

Looking for toys? Djeco from France offers high quality and imaginative options. The Djeco Cubanimo set, and 6-Sided block puzzle are true delights.

For Penny Scallan fans, the 30% is just incredible. Those looking for the limited edition spot designs should jump in quick – these won’t last long!

Also, check out TikiBoo Kids and G& T Kids, both new to La Toriana.

All orders placed at La Toriana between now and 14 December also receive a FREE Oopsidaisi All Natural Lip Balm, and you’ll also go in the draw for the La T Great Christmas Giveaway: an annieB Play Palace worth $399. Shop away: you may just be the lucky winner…

Don’t forget to swing by the La T blog. Elizabeth is a very busy bunny, and there’s always something exciting happening over there.

Discounted prices listed below are after the 30% discount has been deducted. Prices return to normal at midnight on December 4.

PS If you would like a 10% discount on products listed below that are not included in the 30% sale click here. Note you can only use one discount code at a time.

1. Djeco Cubanimo 17 piece set $45.95 $32.16
2. Penny Scallan Small Backpack $19.95 $13.96
3. Finnigan Finn White Crossover Blouse $39.95 $35.95 $25.16
4. Oobi 1950’s Party Dress $42.95 $30.06
5. Anamalz Christmas Set with CD $39.95
6. NEW RELEASE Anamalz $9.95
7. Djeco 6-sided Puzzle $16.50 $11.55
8. Hansel and Gretel Twin Elves $22.45
9. G&T Kids Bib, Placemet, and Cushion set $72.95
10. Annabel Trends Xmas Romper $14.95
11. Oobi Egglings $19.95 $13.96
12. Oobi Dino Egg Short and Singlet Set $39.95 $27.96 and Oobi Dino Egg Bib $9.95 $6.96

La Toriana stock a big range of products from annieB, Britt, Cheeky Little Soles, Dobbin and Drum, Eternal Creation, Finnigan Finn, Hey Baby, Huggalugs, Vanchi, Kee Ka, Lambykins, Oobi, Toys Pure, BumpBuddy, Lazybones, Gertie and Me, Britt, Thurlby Farm, Kids Kitchen, Grommets, Mini Whisk, Annabel Trends, Vintage Kids, Babylicious, Penny Scallan, Tabitha Emma, Tickled Pink, Djeco, Anamlaz, Three Little Trees, Nana Huchy, Jasnor, Footprints, Tummy Bear, Tea Princess, Alimrose Designs, Fairy Floss Creations, Cuski, and Gaia, and new to La Toriana, Britt, Nanny Pickle, Oopsidaisi, G&T Kids, Eco Peko, TikiBoo Kids, Wild Things of Noosa, and prem baby brands Tummy Bear and Early Birds.

La Toriana charge $7.50 postage Australia-wide. Orders over AUD$150.00 are posted FREE, and receive a FREE pressie too!

Today’s post brought to you by Miki. 

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Just wanted to let you know that you need to head on over to La Toriana – www.latoriana.com.au – sometime before 30 September: Elizabeth is celebrating La Toriana’s first birthday and we’re all invited to join in with 20% off store-wide for KidStyleFile readers. Woo hoo!

That’s 20% off new stock, off already discounted sale stock, the lot!  Enter code ‘BirthdayKSF’ at checkout to redeem your discount.

What’s more, every order this month will receive a FREE copy of the latest My Child magazine!  And if all of that isn’t enough, make sure you sign up to the La T newsletter for a chance to win a $50 gift voucher, AND orders over $150 receive FREE postage! Wowee!

I tend to go to La Toriana thinking, “Right, I’ll just have a quick looky”… and there I am an hour later, filling up my cart.

This is because they stock so many of my favourite-est things – Eternal Creation clothes, Anamalz, Oobi Space Hoppers (and just Oobi in general actually, Vanchi super-sized wraps and designer bibs, annieB Play Palaces (what kid wouldn’t LOVE to have one of these?) and much, much more.

But La T gets even better when you start to take 20% off every price in sight! Especially when the La Toriana ’stable’ of brands includes annieB, Britt, Cheeky Little Soles, Dobbin and Drum, Eternal Creation, Finnigan Finn, Hey Baby, Huggalugs, Vanchi, Kee Ka, Lambykins, Oobi, Toys Pure, BumpBuddy, Lazybones, Gertie and Me, Britt, Thurlby Farm, Kids Kitchen, Grommets, Mini Whisk, Annabel Trends, Vintage Kids, Babylicious, Penny Scallan, Tickled Pink, Djeco, Anamlaz, Nana Huchy, Jasnor, Footprints, Tummy Bear, Tea Princess, Alimrose Designs, Fairy Floss Creations, Cuski, and Gaia, and new to La Toriana, Britt, Nanny Pickle, Oopsidaisi and prem baby brands Tummy Bear and Early Birds.

Here are some of my top picks to give you an idea of what goodies are available:

Clockwise from top left in rows:

Prices quoted include the KSF 20% discount code, applicable only until Sept 30.

Eternal Creation Tri Colour Long-Sleeved Shirt With Star, $36.95  $29.56  $23.64
Strawberry Shortcake Ruche Dress, $29.95  $23.96
Finnigan Finn ‘Holly’ Denim Wrap Dress, $64.99  $51.99  $41.59
Cheeky Little Soles ‘In Bloom’, $31.95 $25.56
Peanut T by Kee-Ka, $29.95  $23.96 I have given these tops as gifts before, they come in the sweetest little gift boxes!
Footprints Nappy Cover, $9.50 $7.60 I love this range – so cute, SO affordable, and all 100% cotton!
Heidi Ho Elephant, $49.95  $39.96
Play School Stacking Boxes, $22.95  $18.36
Tractor Farm Set, $52.95  $42.36

As a final note, we all love winning stuff and the prize pool for the KidStyleFile Annual Reader Survey is especially drool-worthy – which is to be expected given that the grand prize comes from La Toriana!

Fill out the Survey before the end of September for a chance to win one of over $2,000.00 in prizes including the grand prize of an AnnieB Play Palace, and a $200.00 customised Mother & Child Pamper Pack, all up valued at $500.00 kindly sponsored by La Toriana.

La Toriana charge $7.50 postage Australia-wide. Orders over AUD$150.00 are posted FREE.

I just adore Monkeytail & Wellington – www.monkeytailandwellington.com.au. Owner Vicki has created a wondrous boutique of uniquely creative and exuberant products from passionate local and overseas independent designers, boutique brands and artisan crafted products that inspire me every time, and she’s always adding more new and fabulous things.

If I had to explain the feeling Monkeytail & Wellington gives me, it reminds me of reading my favourite childhood story over again and loving it every time – “more! more! again! again!”. It also tickles my fancy to see what the M&W mascots, the dino and monkey, are up to on each page – it’s just a delight and a joy.

Monkeytail & Wellington stock the following brands: Wonderworld Toys, Anamalz, Le Toy Van, Dejco, Little Beetle, Imprintables, Mara Mi & Zoomerang Invitations, Walter Foster craft & dress up kits, various books and CD’s, mostly hard to find or imports, Luka Surface Graphics, Lucy and Michael play tents, and the cream of Indie brands and crafters: Sarah Jane Studios, Fall Down Tree art & stationery, Owly Shadow Puppets, Kait Emerson Design clothes, Mountain Aven Baby clothes, bibs & blankets, Cutecumber hair accessories, SW Designs activity mats & bags, Margrietje Jewellery, I Luv U Tutu Much tutu skirts, Monkeytail & Wellington Sock Monkey’s, Little Jenny Wren Waldorf dolls, 2 Big Kids Let’s play mail sets, and Hamb t-shirts.

Little Hero capes, Lillybean Playfood, The Piggy Story bags, art folios and tableware, and Monkey Do (beautiful made-in-Melbourne quality and designs. I met the designers recently, and I tell you what, their clothes really channel the loveliness of the people who make them) have also now arrived.

To help you celebrate childhood (your child’s and your own second childhood!), Vicki at Monkeytail & Wellington is offering KidStyleFile reader 15%* off store-wide until August 31.

Use the code ‘KSF02′ in at checkout to score your exclusive discount.

Woohoo! <sound of running feet and front door slamming>

That’s the sound of me heading over the M&W pronto: I’m off to buy some Little Hero capes and accessories, Cutecumber goldfish hairclips (we just acquired some real goldfish, and we love them!), Verve jazz CD (major cred for their musical education), and another Owly Shadow Puppet or two for me to play with for my children’s upcoming birthdays.

Head on over to discover the magical world of Monkeytail & Wellington for yourself. Picks of the day below to inspire you

Clockwise from top left. Prices in red are after 15% KSF discount, and are applicable until 31 August only, so get your skates on!

Red Zinnia Lounge Set Set (one off: size 2 only) $49.95 less 15% = $42.45
The Piggy Story Doggy Diary Handy Notecard Set with case $34.95 less 15% = $29.70
Monkey Do Flower Sunday Dress (available in sizes 4 & 6) $65.00 less 15% = $55.25
Monkey Do Holiday T-shirt in Avocado (available in sizes 4 & 6) $38.00 less 15% = $32.30
Little Campers Blue Planet Lounge Set (one off: size 2 only) $49.95 less 15% = $42.45
The Piggy Story Ramblin’ Kid Cow suitcase & accessories $59.95 less 15% = $50.95
Verve records Jazz for Kids $30.00 less 15% = $25.50
Owly Shadow Puppets – Dinosaur $15.00 less 15% = $12.75
Cutecumber Goldfish Swimming Practice Hairclips $7.00 less 15% = $5.95
Little Hero Capes - choose from 8 fab designs. Matching power cuffs and masks sold separately  $39.95 less 15% = $33.95

*Offer ends 31 August 2008, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, or custom orders. VIP discounts not applicable during the promotional period.

Subscribe to the Monkeytail & Wellington newsletter to become a VIP’s and be eligible for 10% off all orders OR free shipping on orders over $150.00 during non-promotional periods, plus free gift wrapping and other special offers and pre-order incentives. Read Vicki’s blog to keep abreast of the latest cool additions at Monkeytail & Wellington.

Monkeytail & Wellington’s postage charges start at $6.00. International post is also available. View the Postage Charges Info page for full details.

Looking to feel bright and breezy today? Go no further than the delightful Happy Little Hippos – www.happylittlehippos.com.au – run by super stylish Mums, Ania and Hesn.

Every time I hit their site, with its blue skies, fluffy white clouds and vivid herd of happy hippopotamuses I go all warm and fuzzy.

The beauty of Happy Little Hippos is much more than skin deep though. It is lovely and easy to use, the $5.95 postage Australia wide is knockout price, and their thoughtfully selected and high quality range of products are just divine.

Indulge in a fine range of toys, art and craft activities, books, nursery and decor products, and accessories, from Bla Bla, Alimrose, Lundby, Brio, Anamalz, Wheely Bug, Quadrilla, Baufix, Quercetti, Dobbin and Drum, Tolo, K’s Kids, Mooo, Djeco, Mama & Papas, Wanju, Binthe, Automoblox, David Fussenegger, Plan Toys, Cuski, Little Blue Fish, Envirosax, Crocodile Creek, and more.

Mums aren’t forgotten either: treat yourself to Miss Uchi purses, Willow and Finch heat packs and T2 Teas.

Happy Little Hippos are having a great winter stocktake sale: - they have reduced the price of more items just today – save up to 40%! Woo hoo!

And because the girls at Happy Little Hippos want to give you yet another reason to smile and be happy, they’re giving everyone who spends over $100.00 an Alimrose Red Striped Monkey Rattle, valued at $24.95. Offer ends 31 August, 2008.

This is a seriously good offer, as I’m sure you know! I often buy these monkeys for friends children as they are such friendly little fellows. Also, their stripes are just the thing to stimulate developing minds, their long lanky limbs are made for clutching, the rattle is a nice sensory feature, and they are a decent size (29cm long), which makes them the perfect gift.

Want the monkey? I hear you! Here are some picks to inspire

Clockwise from top left:

My Fancy Girls Doll’s House (accessories included) – $199.95 now $179.95
Blabla Pumpkin blanket – $89.95 now $79.95
Tolo Toys Stacking cups $17.95 These will last your child/ren years: mine play with theirs in the bath now.
Alimrose Funky Marnie Rattle – $22.95 now $19.95
Plan Toys Wooden Deluxe Road System (accessories included) – $131.95 now $99.95 Super bargain – snap it up!
Isak Counting Poster (framed) from Kindergallery – $160.00 now $149.95 A beautiful decor piece that will stand the test of time.
Baufix Build a Buggy – $29.95 now $24.95
Navy red star ottoman $49.95 So stylish, and so practical: use it to put your feet up when the little ones are in bed!
Brown white star beanbag $99.95
Alimrose Funky Freddie Squeaker – $14.95 now $12.95 I’ve said it before, and I think it bears repeating: these are *the best* handsqueakers in the world! Pure giggles, and so easy for tiny hands to use.
Little Blue Fish Balance Bike in pink – $179.95 now $149.95 Huge in Europe, these bikes foster great balance and negate the use for training wheels once your child moves to a pedal bike. I have my eagle eye on these, so you’d better get in quick!

Happy Little Hippos charge $5.95 flat rate postage, Australia-wide. Conditions apply – see website for details.

The state of the environment has been an issue of concern for some time now, and the focus on environmentally sustainable options that minimise waste and use clean, green products, and modes of manufacture is one that we’ll need to keep paying attention to so our children, and their children’s children, can live long and happy lives in a healthy global ecosystem.

Shopping online is a great way to save some dollars and the environment at the same time: no need for a car or the monetary or environmental expense of petrol, plus shopping online – like right here! – saves you money AND a heap of time, so it’s a win win win win win situation!

Ekidna Kidswear – www.ekidnakidswear.com.au – is getting behind the cause this month, and encouraging you to buy clean and green for you children, by offering 15% off all the products in their Organics section.

Select from Green to Grow baby bottles, a reassuringly toxin-free option for bottle-feeding your baby.

Green to Grow bottles are made from PES plastic, which gives them a natural golden color. They are free of phthalates, lead and PVC – all known toxins – and free of bisphenol A – a suspected hormone-disrupting chemical used in polycarbonate plastic, from which most baby bottles are made. Green to Grow’s bottle teats are made from a transparent, medical grade silicone that is heat-resistant, non-toxic, and odorless. The teats are free of nitrosamines, a potentially harmful contaminant found in many rubber teats.

Green to Grow’s products are tested in the U.S. to ensure they meet the highest standards for quality and safety, are packed in 100% recycled packaging to be easy on the environment, and they are top rack dishwasher safe to be easy on you!

From left:

Green to Grow BPA Free! Wide Neck Feeding Bottle 300ml $19.95 15% off NOW $16.95
Green to Grow BPA Free! Regular Neck Feeding Bottle 300ml $19.95 15% off NOW $16.95
Green to Grow BPA Free! Wide Neck Feeding Bottle 150ml $16.95 15% off NOW $14.40
Green to Grow BPA Free! Regular Neck Feeding Bottle 150ml $16.95 15% off NOW $14.40

No doubt you have seen Anamalz before. An Australian design innovation, even at their diminuative stature – just 10cm high! – they are quite the standout pieces. With their delightful organic maple wooden bodies, posable limbs, and amiable expressions, they provide children with a lovely tactile play experience, which will last generations while being kind to the planet.

We love Anamalz here at out house, and have the whole menagerie of 12. My kids love to play with them, and assemble their collections along the dado rail in their bedroom. I must say they do really add personality to a space, feel lovely to hold, and are easily portable, making fabulous go-anywhere buddies for your child.

In addition to the 15% discount, Ekidna Kidswear is giving away a free Anamalz calico bag (holds 3 – 4 animals) and a pack of collector cards when 2 or more animals are purchased in one transaction.

From left:

Anamalz Lion $9.95 15% off NOW $8.45
Anamalz Crocodile $9.95 15% off NOW $8.45
Anamalz Elephant $9.95 15% off NOW $8.45

I must say, that I am a big fan of chemical free options where possible, and there’s no time more important to minimise artificial and chemical ingredients than when your baby is smaill: their little bodies have so much smaller ratios to be able to process toxins, and it just feels right to keep them as natural as possible.

Ekidna Kids makes this easy, with a compact, but thoughtful range of products for the littlest ones. The Under the Nile Organic Vegie teething toys are just the sweetest chew toys, and easy to wash and care for, Aromababy GMO-free organic massage oil delivers the highest quality product to give your baby yummy massages with, and the Nature’s Child organic face wipes and bottom balm offer gentle solutions for your child’s sensitive skin, and how I wish the Dri Liners – a reusable absorbent insert that fits inside any cloth or disposable nappy – existed when my babes were small: I would have save a small fortune in nappies!!

From top left, in rows:

Under the Nile Organic Cotton Carrot Teether $19.95 15% off NOW $16.95
Under the Nile Organic Cotton Mushroom Teether $19.95 15% off NOW $16.95
Nature’s Child Organic Face Wipes (4 pack) $17.95 15% off NOW $15.25
Nature’s Child Dri Liners (3 pack) $19.95 NOW $11.85
Aromababy Organic Massage Oil (100ml) $14.95 NOW $10.15
Nature’s Child Bottom Balm (50 gm) $14.95 25% off NOW $12.70

Ekidna Kidswear stock over 55 quality baby and kids brands including Anamalz, Annabel Trends, Aroma Baby, Babe Mode, Baby Blankie, Baby Legs, Badger Balm, Baobab, Beautiful Soles, Bebe, Bertini, Bud, Brio, Cheeky Little Soles, Chelona, Crocodile Creek, Eternal Creation, Fairy Floss, Fiesta Crafts, Fish Lilly, For Walls, Fruity Faces, Heimess, Humphrey’s Corner, Infancy, Isoki, Itsy Bitsy, Jaffa, Karma Baby, Lark Designs, Latitude Enfant, Little Chipipi, Longueville Media, Mamas & Papas, Marquise, Messaround, Milkwrap, Minihaha, Mondays Child, My Munchkin Home, Nature’s Child, Oobi, Paper Eskimo, Peter Rabbit, Pia Eriksson, Roocci, Russ, Sigg, Skip Hop, Smart Mom, Smirk, Starchild, t4tot, Toys Pure, Uchi, Vintage Kid Designs, WallCandy Arts, Wink Designs, Woof!, so you have a veritable feast of luxe to choose from.

If you want to scoop up some fabulous bargains check out the ‘Specials’ page and feel oh so glad that you did (lots of Oobi in there for you OobiWatchers)!

Ekidna Kidswear charge $6.95 for standard postage, and $9.95 for Express Post, Australia wide. International orders are welcome. Visit the Delivery information page for full shipping and delivery details.

It’s time to introduce the new and very wonderful Monkeytail & Wellington – www.monkeytailandwellington.com.au – onto the scene, and boy-oh-boy are your eyes in for a feast!

Monkeytail & Wellington specialise in independent designers, boutique brands and artisan crafted products, some of which have never been available in Australia before.

Vicki at Monkeytail & Wellington certainly has an eye for the unique and exquisite: brands stocked include Wonderworld Toys, Anamalz, Le Toy Van, Dejco, Little Beetle, Imprintables, Mara Mi & Zoomerang Invitations, Walter Foster craft & dress up kits, various books and CD’s, mostly hard to find or imports, Luka Surface Graphics, Lucy and Michael play tents, and the cream of Indie brands and crafters: Sarah Jane Studios, Fall Down Tree art & stationery, Owly Shadow Puppets, Kait Emerson Design clothes, Mountain Aven Baby clothes, bibs & blankets, Cutecumber hair accessories, SW Designs activity mats & bags, Margrietje Jewellery, I Luv U Tutu Much tutu skirts, Monkeytail & Wellington Sock Monkey’s, Little Jenny Wren Waldorf dolls, 2 Big Kids Let’s play mail sets, and Hamb t-shirts.

Also, keep your eyes peeled for Little Hero capes, Lillybean Playfood, The Piggy Story bags, art folios and tableware, Wool Creations hobby horses, and Monkey Do coming soon.

As a big happy hello to KidStyleFile readers, Vicki at Monkeytail & Wellington is offering us all 20%* off plus free gift wrapping off store-wide. If you spend over $100.00 you receive a free gift too!

Pop the code ‘KSF01′ in at checkout to score your exclusive discount.

There’s so much over at Moneytail & Wellington that I’m going to split my picks into two lots: first up clothes and accessories, and second toys and decor.

Monkeytail & Welllington are featuring a lovely little selection of boutique clothing pieces.

I fell in love with the Hamb Tees at the last LifeinSTYLE/KIDSinSTYLE tradeshow in Sydney earlier this year. Made in Melbourne, the quality is superb, and the prints are quirkily cool.

Only recently Miki waxed lyrical on the joys of Amy Butler fabric, and here’s a stunning example of it put to good use: the Simply Kait Jacket in Lotus Sand. To make it even more irresistible, this jacket is fully reversible. It’s a one-off, and available in size 5.

Want to indulge you little girl’s inner fairy/ballerina/princess? Let loose with the fabulously decadent I Luv U Tutu Much tutu skirts, and pin a brooch from the Margrietje Jewellery line to complete the whimsical look.

For boys the lounge sets cannot be beaten: your little man will look cool and be comfy without hurting your hip pocket.

Finally, if you’re looking for a gift card with added value, head straight for the Sarah Jane Studios mini-cards with pin back button badge attached.

In rows from top left:

Hamb Sock Puppet Tee $39.00 less 20% = $31.20
Sarah Jane Studios ‘I love you this much’ Mini-card $5.00 less 20% = $4.00
Margrietje Jewellery Green Puppy Brooch $35.00 less 20% = $28.00
I Luv U Tutu Much tutu skirts $55.00 less 20% = $44.00
Simply Kait Jacket in Lotus Sand $55.00 less 20% = $44.00
Boys Lounge Sets Prices range from $49.95 - $99.95 less 20%

Now, on to one of my very favourite topics: toys and decor.

The best toys offer open-ended play opportunities to stimulate imagination and creativity, and provide the opportunity to exercise real-life skills. Monkeytail & Wellington have sourced some of the finest pieces available.

Le Toy Van from the UK produce simply the most original wooden painted toys. You can select from Fairyland, dolls house, mini-world, traditional toys, farms, pirate adventure, fantasy, castles and medieval villages. My favourite has to be the Honeybake Set. Let your child/ren bake away happily, and then serve you up high tea: who could ask for more?

More role-playing delight can be found with the 2 Big Kids Let’s Play Mail felted sets, exclusively stocked in Australia by Monkeytail & Wellington.

Other stand out pieces include the Owly Shadow Puppets from Chicago based Andrea Everman who uses her skills as an architectural model maker to produce these laser-cut delights. My kids are fascinated by shadows, and these puppets are at the top of my shopping list.

If you’re looking for a friendly pal for your little one then you can’t go past Monkeytail & Wellingtons very own line of sock monkeys (Vicki and her Mum make them!). Pair it with the chuckle-inducing story-book ‘Sock Monkey Goes to Hollywood: A Star is Bathed’ - the story of sock monkey’s journey to receive a special award with one hitch: he has to have a bath first! – and you have the perfect combination.

If you are a fan of Anamalz wooden toys (me me!) then you’ll love this fab offer from Monkeytail & Wellington: 7 Anamalz with Bonus CD, Storage Bag & Collector Cards – bar-gain!!

Monkeytail & Wellington are also offering a new decor solution to the Australian market in the form of Luka Surface Graphics. Select from a great choice of designs to suit from bebes to older kids (and if you’re a retailer reading this, Monkeytail & Wellington are the Australian wholesalers, so contact Vicki if you’re interested in stocking this quality product).

Finally, at the end of the day when your child is pooped out from playing they can retire to the most divine of play tents, complete with paned windows, and parent-friendly aesthetics from Lucy & Michael Play Tents, Houston USA.

Le Toy Van Honeybake Set $96.00 less 20% = $76.80
2 Big Kids Let’s Play Mail 27 piece felted set $55.00 less 20% = $44.00
Owly Shadow Puppets – Owl $15.00 less 20% = $12.00
Owly Shadow Puppets – Toothfairy and Yeti Shadow Puppets with Landscape stand $45.00 less 20% = $36.00
Monkeytail & Wellington Sock Monkey au Naturel $49.95 less 20% = $39.96
Sock Monkey Goes to Hollywood story book $24.95 less 20% = $19.96
7 Anamalz with Bonus CD, Storage Bag & Collector Cards – bar-gain!! $59.70 less 20% = $47.76
Luka Surface Graphics Party Animals Wall Decals $69.95 less 20% = $55.96
Lucy & Michael ‘Mack’ Play Tent $350.00 less 20% = $280.00

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Monkeytail & Wellington newsletter to become a VIP’s and be eligible for 10% off all orders OR free shipping on orders over $150.00, plus free gift wrapping and other special offers and pre-order incentives. Read Vicki’s blog to keep abreast of the latest cool additions at Monkeytail & Wellington.

Monkeytail & Wellington’s postage charges start at $6.00. International post is also available. View the Postage Charges Info page for full details.

*Offer ends 31 July 2008, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer (normal VIP offer resumes after this time.)