Today’s post written by Angela

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The environment and lifestyle we enjoy here in Australia has given rise to a unique and creative expression of design for kids. To celebrate our national day of celebration I have compiled a list of Australian baby and kids fashion, accessory and toy designers for your enjoyment. (Link updates will be added as they come to hand).

If I have missed you here please accept my most humble apologies and leave a comment on this post with your brand name and website address to help complete the picture of talent we have here in this country.

Have a very happy Australia Day!

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Today’s post written by Miki

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My two year old has recently been going through a new phase: monsters.

He’s obsessed with all things monster, whether it be playing ’scary monsters’ (it involves jumping out at me from behind doors and shouting ‘RAAAAH!’ at the top of his scary little voice), reading books about them (Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak $19.99 $17.37, and The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson $19.99 $16.97, are his top picks), or wearing clothes featuring monsters.  There are also monster beanbags, monster backpacks, monster dinnerware, monster swimwear and monster games to be discovered.

So in his honour, today I’ve done a round-up of our favourite monster themed gear.  See the links below for where to buy, and enjoy!  RAAAAAH!

1. Monster Couture Beanbag, $99.95; Monster Couture Back Pack, $39.95 from Pastel Pink
2. For Walls Jumbo Chalkboard Decal – Monster, $59.95 from The Hip Infant
3. Tommy Rocket ‘Rocket Monster’ Tee, $26.95 from Paperartzi Boutique
4. Mister Mista ‘Ozzie’ Tee, $39.95 $20.00 from Little Pinwheel
5. Tkxi Rashee and Racer Pant, from $36.00 Ten Little Indians
6. Munster Baby Stampede Tee, $34.95 from Ten Little Indians
7. French Bull Monster Dinnerware, from $9.95 from The Hip Infant
8. Usborne Monster Snap Card Game, $14.95 from ShopHouse
9. ‘This Is My Monster’ Touchy Feely Book, $22.00 from Mummy’s Favourite
10. Penny Scallan Large Lunchbox – Monster, $34.95 from ShopHouse
11. Blue Baby Monster Brooch, $16.00 from Made It
12. Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak $19.99 $17.37; The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson $19.99 $16.97, both from Fishpond Books
13. Munster Monster Board Shorts, $59.95 from Raspberry Rascals

Please check individual stores for postage and delivery information. Also be sure to check the KidStyleFile Current Offers page, and the KidStyleFile Weekly Newsletter for discount codes to make sure you get the best possible deal – if you’re not a subscriber already then you can sign up here – it’s free!

Today’s post written by Miki

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I know I’m not the only one with a fussy toddler to feed.  Just about all parents have to deal with fussy eaters at some point, which can be a challenge when we’re also trying to feed the kids healthy, nutritious meals.  It’s quite a battle to get vegetables into a child who only wants to eat vegemite out of the jar!  (Yes, believe it or not, that’s my elder son’s current food fetish. Bleurgh.)

With life being so busy in the lead-up to Christmas, what we all need are some easy wins on the food front (there’s just no time to do battle!). I’m sure you’ll all be as delighted as I was by the website of children’s food guru Annabel Karmel – www.annabelkarmel.com.

The site is beautifully laid out and absolutely packed full of fantastic and FREE recipes, which are helpfully divided into categories from 6-9 months right up to family meals.  There’s loads for toddlers (even fussy ones like mine), and for older kids, along with breakfasts, lunch box ideas, party food, you name it!  There are even recipes for pregnant or breastfeeding mums to help them maintain a balanced and nutritious diet.

Last night I made the incredibly cute Potato Mice, which Master Two absolutely adored, and they were almost as much fun to make as they were to eat!  On tonight’s menu is Fish Pie which I’m really looking forwards to trying.

It’s free to sign up for the Annabel Karmel newsletter, which gives lots of great recipe ideas and top tips on baby and child nutrition as well.

Bon Appétit!

See here for the previous installment of our Miniature Gourmet special features.

Credit for all images: www.annabelkarmel.com

Today’s post written by Miki

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It’s shaping up to be a long hot summer, and there’ll be nowhere better to be than the pool or the beach over the next few months.  But this leads to a dilemma: where on earth do you go to find gorgeous swimwear for the kids?

We at KidStyleFile have done the hard work for you, and rounded up the best brands for aquatic and marine fun this summer. From Polka to Girls 4 Sport, from Cuddlefish to Tiger Joe, and from Tkxi Surf to Stella Cove, the choice is extensive and there’s something for every kid from babies upwards.

Keep in mind, of course, that the Australian sun is harsh and damaging to delicate young skin, so look out for options that offer sun protection.  There’s a great range of rashies on the market these days, and brands such as Girls 4 Sport and Tkxi Surf are 50+ UV resistant.

For sheer prettiness, Polka’s girly options and Stella Cove’s chic styles are perfect choices.  Boys also have some great choices from Polka, and Tiger Joe do some great sporty sets for boys too.  Babies are spoiled for choice with more Polka, along with the eternal favourite Cuddlefish and adorable Lil’ Ludy.

Check out all these gorgeous options for boys, girls and babies, and get in the swim for summer!

1. Tkxi Surf Marine Blue 3/4 Sleeve Set, at Tkxi Surf $60.00
2. Polka Scandinavian Tree Boardies, at Little Pinwheel $59.95
3. Polka Black Dot Bikini, at Little Pinwheel $69.95
4. Polka Digital Grey Baby Board Shorts, at Raspberry Rascals $44.95
5. Tkxi Surf Short Sleeve Rash Vest, at Tkxi Surf $55.00
6. Stella Cove Garbo Maillot, at Design Child $74.95
7. Lil’ Ludy 70s One Piece, at Trifle Shoppe $45.00
8. Polka Peacock Mermaid One Piece, at Raspberry Rascals $69.95
9. Girls 4 Sport Fairy Garden L/S Rashie 50+ UV resistant, at Where Did You Get That $42.95
10. Cuddlefish Tankini – Flamingo Stripe, $34.95; and Cuddlefish Pool Party Skirt – Flamingo, $44.95, both at The Hip Infant
11. Small Paul Julius Heart Beach Towel, at Kid’s Got Style $49.95
12. Tiger Joe Ocean Blue Tiger Rashie, $39.95 $25.00; and Tiger Joe Ocean Blue Lined Pant, $29.95 $20.00 both at Baby’s Got Style
13. Girls 4 Sport Plum Swim Skort 50+ UV Resistant, at Where Did You Get That? $38.95
14. Cuddlefish Short Sleeve Bouyancy Swim Suit – Marine, at The Hip Infant $69.95

Please check individual stores for postage and delivery information. Also be sure to check the KidStyleFile Current Offers page, and the KidStyleFile Weekly Newsletter for discount codes to make sure you get the best possible deal. (If you’re not a subscriber already then you can sign up here – it’s free!)

Today’s post written by Angela

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Toys and play are almost the very definition of childhood they are so integral to a child’s life and development. The best toys are those which promote ‘open’ play, allowing children to use their imagination and use the toy in many different ways, therefore stimulating learning.

As every parent knows, it is not always the biggest or most expensive toy that engages and endures: a good toy is one that is played with time after time and endures the process. A quality toy will be passed from sibling to sibling and through generations, teaching and delighting as it goes.

In June this year we asked you, our readers, what your favourite toys for kids are. Almost 2,000 of you responded and shared the results of your experience with us! I am thrilled to present you with the results of your feedback as the KidStyleFile Reader’s Choice Top 40 Children’s Toys list.

Where generic items have been recommended (i.e. “ball”) we’ve included the brands that were mentioned most often in that category. As always we’ve provided prices, and links to where you can purchase these items. Enjoy!

Click here to view the KidStyleFile Reader’s Choice Top 40 Books for 2009.

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1. Lego

A runaway favourite, Lego sets in all shapes and sizes are available from online stores, in bricks and mortar toy stores and department stores Australia-wide. Visit Lego Australia for stockists. Prices range from $7.99 upwards.

2. Train Sets

IKEA and Thomas & Friends sets were your favourite picks. You can purchase Thomas & Friends sets from online stores, in bricks and mortar toy stores and department stores Australia-wide. Pickup Ikea sets in-store or from the Ikea Online Order Store.

Ikea Lillabo Train Set from Ikea, main image, $19.99 and accessory packs, sold separately, $4.99-$16.99

3. Blocks

Brio block sets were mentioned most often, and Haba block sets garnered honourable mentions.

Brio 50 piece Classic Block Set from Little Possums Toys,  $63.95

4. Dolls

Bratz, Baby Alive, Baby Born, Barbie, Bella Dancerella, Blythe, Cabbage Patch, Kate Finn, and Posy dolls all received substantial mentions.

Posy Dolls from Mini La La, $89.95 each

5. Jigsaw Puzzles

Mooo and Melissa & Doug puzzles were notable favourites.

Mooo Name Puzzle from Mooo, $24.95

6. Fisher Price Little People

Available from online stores, in bricks and mortar toy stores, department stores and supermarkets Australia-wide. Visit Fisher Price Australia to view the range. Prices range from $7.99 upwards.

7. Balls

A universal favourite, balls entertain kids (and adults!) of all ages.

Clockwise from top left:

Tolo bell Ball for Babies TBA
Emotion & Kids Crocheted Balls from Button Baby, $15.95
My Firsty Footy from Babies & Kids, $12.95
Crocodile Creek Phthalate Free Ball from Babies & Kids $15.95

8. Duplo

Lego for younger kids, Duplo sets are available from online stores, in bricks and mortar toy stores, department stores and supermarkets Australia-wide. Visit the Lego Duplo site to view the range. Prices range from $7.99 upwards.

9. Wheely Bug

This fun, cute and robust Australian innovation is now a worldwide success. Available in ages 1-3 and 3-5 years. The 360 degree castors mean your child will never get stuck in a corner!

Wheely Bug ride-on (large) from Green Goat,  $119.95 each

10. Cars

Playsam, Kinderkram, Matchbox, Pixar, and wooden cars are hot favourites.

Playsam Lacquered Wooden Streamliner Car from Metro Mum, $77.00

11. Musical Instruments

Shake Rattle n Roll Percussion Set from Little Pinwheel, $49.95

12. Toy Kitchen

ELC, Little Tykes, Micki, Miele, Step 2 all received mentions.

My Giant Wooden Play Kitchen from Windmill Educational, $195.00

13. Wooden Toys

Shapemaker Wooden Toy from Little Pinwheel, $69.95
Wooden Construction Toy from Little Pinwheel, $59.95

14. Doll’s House

Lundby, Le Toy Van, and Plan Toys were the most popular named varieties.

Lundby Gotland Doll’s House starter pack from Lundby, $230.00

15. Play Doh

Buy it or make your own.

Play Doh 1kg Tub from Toys Online, $10.99

16. Tupperware Shape-O

Unchanged in design for almost 40 years, this shape sorter is a classic.

Tupperware Shape-O from Tupperware, $36.45. Click here to find a distributor.

17. Books

See the KidStyleFile Reader’s Choice Top 40 Books for the cream of the crop.

18. Art & Craft

Djeco WaterColour Workshop from Where Did You Get That?, $39.60

19. Bicycle

A two-wheeler bike is one of the most memorable gifts a child can ever receive: it represents freedom and the first mode of independent travel.

It’s important to get the right fit of bike, and KidStyleFile recommends a visit to your local cyclery over shopping online for bicycle purchases. To ensure you get a good fit and a good buy, read this article by independent consumer advice magazine Choice on how to buy a kid’s bike here.

20. Tea Set

Djeco Birthday Party Tea-time Tea Set from Little Possums Toys, $74.95
Plan Toys Child’s Wooden Tea Set from Send A Toy, $44.95

21. Trampoline

Springfree garnered the most mentions here.

Small Round Springfree Trampoline from Springfree, $945

22. Scooter

Mini Micro and Razor ranked as the favourite brands of scooter.

Mini Micro Scooter from Kids Central, $120.00
Razor Kiddy Kick Scooter from Little Bruiser, $79.95

23. Nintendo DS

Nintendo DS Console from DStore, $299.95

24. Rattle

Brio, Alimrose, Annabel, and Lark all received substantial mentions.

Knitted Gnome Rattle from Lark Made, $19.95

25. Teddy Bear

Classic Sandy Teddy Bear from Baby Buds, $16.95
Britt Teddy Bear from Britt Design, $37.00

26. Dress Ups

Travis Designs Dressup Costumes Sugar Plum Fairy, $74.95 and King & Crown Dress Up Costume, $84.95 from Little Possums Toys. Click here for more kids dress up labels.

27. Mega Bloks

Mega Bloks Junior Starter Kit 40 Piece Set from Online Toys, $19.95

28. Shape Sorter

Brio and Ryan’s Room were popular brand picks.

Brio Shape Sorting Box from Little Possums Toys,  $43.95

29. Stacking Boxes/Cups

KidO Stack & Nest Cup Set (great in the bath) from Urban Baby, $19.95
PlaySchool Stacking Boxes Set from Kinder Kaboodle, $22.95

30. Activity Toys (Lamaze)

Lamaze Activity Toy: 2-in-1 Activity Guppy from Minimee, $32.95 $30.48
Lamaze Discovery Farm Activity Book from Minimee, $24.95 $23.08

31. Balance Bike

Early Rider, Y Bike, Like A Bike and Wishbone all made the grade here.

Wishbone Balance Bike, suitable for children 1 to 5 years from Entropy, $289.00 (incl. delivery within Australia)

32. Handsqueaker

Alimrose Monkey Stripe Baby Handsqueaker Toy from Pastel Pink, $15.95

33. Ride On Toy – Car/Fire Engine/Tractor

Mooo, BMW Mini Cooper, and John Deere all received mentions.

Metal Ride-on Roadster and Fire Hook and Ladder Truck from Millie’s Playground, $200.00 each including shipping

34. Soft Toys

Gertie & Me, Kaloo, and Deglingos were mentioned by name.

Gertie & Me Moses Basket & Doll Set, $59.95, and Gertie & Me Waffle Weave Horse, $14.95 from Little Styles

35. Handmade

Hand made toys are enjoying a huge wave of popularity as uniqueness and meaningfulness becomes more important when making a toy purchase. Check sites like Australian-based madeit and US-based Etsy to browse a huge range of quality handmade toys.

36. Knitted soft toys

Mamas & Papas, Morgan & Fitch, and Lark received the bulk of brand mentions.

Mamas & Papas Hand Knitted Lamb and Bear Cuddle Toys from Chic Kids, $39.95 each

37. Little Tikes Cosy Coupe

This adorable little pedal-powered car celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

Little Tikes Cosy Coupe 30th Anniversary Edition from Toys ‘R’ Us, $169.00 $149.00

38. Elmo

The little red monster has stolen hearts everywhere. Available in many different permutations, Tickle Me Elmo (and version two, Elmo TMX – Tickle Me Elmo Extreme) is the most famous. Read about Elmo on Wikipedia here.

The best place to search for Tickle Me Elmo and Tickle Me Elmo Extreme is on eBay.

39. Activity Table

Fisher Price was the brand cited most often.

Fisher Price Activity Table from Deals Direct, $34.95

40. Cubby House

Timber Cubby House, $399.00, and Plastic Cubby House, $159.00, from Deals Direct

Please check individual stores for postage and delivery information, and don’t forget to swing by the KSF All Current Deals page to scope out deals that may get you discounts on these products.

Today’s post written by Edwina

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Who said Maths shouldn’t be fun? A little while ago I discovered ‘New Math’ and fell utterly in love. Since then I’ve discovered Fashematics – www.fashematics.com – and I am completely smitten.

So what’s to love?

Fashematics is basically a clever fashion parlour game which decodes what a designer might have been thinking when they created a look. It is elegant arithmetic, designed to make you smile.

I don’t think the grown-up runway shows should have all the fun, so I’ve come up with some new equations with kids style in mind.

Your fashematics lesson for today: What do you get when you cross a Top Hat with a Bird Cage? Scroll down for the answer and some KSF fun with some outfits from the Spring/Summer 2009 collections from Polka, Ouch and Fred Bare.

The good news that there’s no homework: the take-home message is enjoy!

Visit Fashematics to view the original inspiration for my combinations.

Today’s post written by Edwina

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Russian Nesting Dolls have been a childhood favourite since Adam was a boy, but in recent years the trend has exploded and doesn’t look like easing anytime soon.

And, why should it? For us Mumma’s  – Babushka Dolls, also spelled Babooshka, and also known as Matryoshka Dolls, are the perfect symbol of mothering and children. We hold our family inside us, protecting them and giving them a snug home…. and when we are ready we can crack open and let them free!

I have collected a small sample of Babushka love to share today. I think my favourites would have to be the Beatles Babushka Onesie,  the Traditional Dolls or some of the amazing Babushka fabrics available online.

To Russia with love…

1. Garland of Babushka Dolls, $US32.50 from Etsy seller HollandFabricHouse
2. Babushka Doll Fabric FQ $US3.00 from Etsy seller HollandFabricHouse
3. Pencil Sharpeners, $5.95 from Kid’s Got Style
4. Babushka Brooch, $US12.00 from Etsy seller denardi
5. Flirty Bird Elastic and Clip $11.95 from Kid’s Got Style
6. Money Box $24.95 from Milly Molly Moo
7. Babushka 1″ Squares $US2.50 from Etsy Seller PictureMerchants
8. Traditional Matryoshka Doll $14.95 from Kid’s Got Style
9. Ish Babushka Pencil Case $14.95 from Milly Molly Moo
10. Baby Rattle $15.95 from Ollie Rose
11. The Beatles Babushka Onesie $US12.99 from Etsy seller trulysanctuary
12. Skipping Rope $7.95 from Kid’s Got Style
13. Soda Pop Baboushka Doll Jewellery Box $29.95 from Milly Molly Moo
14. Wheelie Travel Bag $49.95 from Milly Molly Moo
15. Babushka Lavender Dolls $14.95 from La Toriana
16. Blink Designs Wall Plaque $35.95 from My Poppet
17. Blink Designs Sewing Kit $26.00 from Hard to Find
18. Mama and Baby Babushka Doll, $100.00 from My Poppet

Please check individual stores for postage and delivery information.

Today’s post written by Miki

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Undies. Let’s face it, once we’re potty trained we all need them, and it’s a fact of life that good quality underwear is more comfortable to wear and lasts much much longer.

At last this niche in the childrenswear market is no longer empty – say hello to a range of quality undergarments for kids!

You can’t go past Aussie label Eeni Meeni Miini Moh for simple and extremely high quality boxers and briefs.  The colours change each season; this season it’s lavender and peony for girls, and crisp white and blue for boys.  Matching singlets are also available, and for my money a good quality singlet and brief set is the ideal mid-summer sleepwear for kids.

Dutch brand Claesens do great matching singlet and boxer sets for boys and girls too, in some great prints.  Boys love the camo army print, and the turquoise flower print for girls is summery, fresh and very pretty.

For an example of groovy patterns, check out US label Francie Pants.  Designed to double as dancewear over tights, Francie Pants come in a huge variety of patterns and with shipping to Australia only US$5 it’s a very viable option for something quirky and different.  You can also get matching singlets which make for great mid-summer sleepwear.

A great brand at budget-conscious prices is Smalls. Based in Melbourne and made in Europe, their products are available online and in a select number of retail stores.  Their collection features simple, high-quality briefs, boxers and singlets in multi-packs and sets at excellent prices. Spend $30.00, and receive free postage on your Smalls order.

If you prefer the cotton nearest the skin to be organic – which makes perfect sense – then I’d suggest having a look at the beautiful French brand Adri.  Available at Paris-based Little Fashion Gallery who ship to Australia, Adri is a new brand launched only this year, run by a pair of French sisters.  Using only organic cottons, their briefs and singlets feature quirky prints and come attractively boxed, making them ideal for gifting.

1. Eeni Meeni Miini Moh 2 Pack Briefs – Lavender & Peony Pink, $29.00
2. Adri ‘Slip de Pirate’ Briefs, €9.00
3. Eeni Meeni Miini Moh 2 Pack Boys Briefs – Pure White & Sailor Blue, $29.00
4. Claesens Girls Singlet – Aqua Flower, $29.95; and Claesens Girls 2 Pack Boxers – Aqua Flower, $36.95 – available online from Where Did You Get That?
5. Smalls Boys Space Brief 3 Pack, $19.95
6. Smalls Girls Bikini Brief 2 Pack, $15.95
7. Adri ‘Princesse’ 2 Pack Briefs, €17.50
8. Claesens Boys Ribbed Singlet – Army, $28.95; and Claesens Boys Boxer 2 Pack – Army, $36.95 available online from Where Did You Get That?
9, 10 & 11. Francie Pants – various designs, USD$16.50ea

Please check individual sites for postage details.

Today’s post written by Leah

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When I heard about Bubba Funk’s – www.bubbafunk.com.au – latest offering I found myself salivating at the prospect of all the BARGAINS ready for my (and your!) taking. Let me elucidate for you:

For the next two weeks Bubba Funk is offering all readers 20% off store wide including all new stock and already reduced winter and 2008/09 summer stock. (Yes, I say, YES!!!) This special deal is valid until 18 October 2009. Enter discount code ‘KSFSpring’ at checkout to redeem.

And for you, fellow mamas, something very *very* special: the new limited edition il Tutto bags are on their way. iI Tutto are releasing just 50 ‘Mia’ bags in Tan, and 50 ‘Nico’ totes in Berry. And that’s it. 50 of each. Once they’re gone, they’re gone!

The limited release il Tutto Mia and Nico are in-store and available to buy online now. Yes, they are eligible for the 20% discount too. Woo hoo!!

Behold the glory:

Above: Limited edition il Tutto ‘Mia’ in Tan

Above: Limited edition il Tutto ‘Nico’ in Berry

There’s a heap more to rejoice in at Bubba Funk too: the funkiest fashion finds for your little charges 20% off.

If you are after the “wow factor” when dressing your little diva or funky monkey, check out Moppit, Minhaha, Woof! and Tiny Mammoth, as well as the fabulous Samvara Saskia Tutu’s, Catimini and 3 Pommes to name a just a few star labels available at BubbaF.

If you’re thinking of jazzing up your nursery with some spring freshness you can’t go past the For Walls decals which come in a range of designs including cupcakes, bird house, transport and jungle friends, and to create a cool spot for some summer reading – the Missi Missi beanbags provide an excellent comfort zone for your little one to sit back and relax in.

Prices quoted in red below are valid with code (see above) until 18 October 2009 only.

1. 3 Pommes Washed White Navy with Suspenders Shirt – $69.95 less 20% off = $55.96
2. ABCD Industrie Monstered Cargo Pant in Fatigue Green – $59.95 less 20% off = $47.96
3. ABCD Industrie Swift Hooded Tee in Cranberry – $29.95 less 20% off = $23.96
4. Catimini Urban Global Mix Tank Top – $69.00 less 20% off = $55.20
5. 3 Pommes Washed T-Shirt White – $29.95 less 20% off = $23.96
6. Catimini Urban Global Mix Skirt – $89.00 less 20% off = $71.20
7. Chalk n Cheese – Chambray Panels – Tier Sun Dress – $89.00 less 20% off = $71.20
8. Walnut Mary Jane Navy Spot – $29.95 less 20% off = $23.96
9. Tiny Mammoth stripey mammoth envelope baby tee candy pink – $39.95 less 20% off = $31.96
10. Woof! Hibiscus Board Shorts Navy – $44.95 less 20% off = $35.96
11. Limited Edition il Tutto Mia ‘Artisan’ Nappy bag in Tan – $469.00 less 20% off = $375.20
12. Il Tutto Nico Nappy bag Black was $249.00 less 20% off = $199.20
13. Limited Edition il Tutto Nico Nappy bag in Berry – $249.00 less 20% off = $199.20

Bubba Funk stock clothing, toys, bedding and accessories from 3 Pommes, ABCD Industrie, Aden + Anais, Annabel Trends, Baby Brands, Beautiful Soles, Bod, Bod for Bubs, Boon, Britt, Catimini, Chalk n Cheese, Cuddledry, David Fussenegger, Egg Baby by Susan Lazar, Fish Lilly, For Walls, Heavenly Creatures, Il Tutto, Isoki, John Crane, Kandy Crew, Kas Australia, Koda Lighting, Korimco, L’il Fraser Collection, Luna Ninos, Marquise, Melobaby, Milk Bands, Minihaha, Minimonkey, Missi Missi, Moppit, Nature Baby, Oobi Baby, Quilt Baby, Ramalama, Samvara Kids, Skeanie, Sprout Design, Tiny Mammoth, Vice Versa, Walnut Melbourne, Well Spotted, Woof! and Zephire Generation.

Postage at Bubba Funk is provided by TNT couriers for gift boxes and e-parcel through Australia post for individual orders. Shipping is determined by weight/size, and the average charge is $7.95. See the Delivery and Postage section for full details.

Today’s post written by Angela

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Father’s Day 2009 is fast approaching – it will be here on Sunday 6th of September, so it’s time to hustle and prepare to celebrate the Dads in your life.

I’ve compiled the top 10 picks for Dads of all tastes, with something to suit every budget.

News.com.au has reported that Father’s Day has a lower spend made on it than virtually any other celebratory date on the calendar. Well, News.com.au, don’t you know that money can’t buy love?

Kid-made is the pinnacle of what your child can give their Dad, and it barely costs a dime. Get all the inspiration you need with how-tos from The Crafty Crow.

If you want to knock those research stats around then I can guarantee that you will get big brownie points with Dad with a new iPhone (buy outright or upgrade Dad’s plan to get your hands on one).

Beyond that, pamper Dad with some a Beauty and The Bees ‘Tiger’ Pack complete with Beer Soap (highly recommended by some very manly SNAGS that I know), or treat Dad with a set of pyjamas that he will actually want to wear. The Parent and Child Robe Set fom Metro Mum is also a sweet (and practical) ‘Daddy and Me’ gift idea.

Metro Mum also have a great selection of Dad-themed mugs – my fave is the mug with the word for ‘Dad’ in English, Greek, Hebrew, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Chinese printed on the side – and if your Dad loves toys, then Playsam racers, planes and yo-yos are the go.

If your baby Daddy is hip like Brad Pitt why not grab him Brad’s baby bag? The leather Storksak ‘Jamie’ bag is the choice here. I also love the Dad Gear messenger bags for casual cool.

If you have a daring Dad then choose a Red Ballooon Days Experience, which offers everything from a F1 car ride to a balloon ride.

If all else fails then give Dad a a book, CD or DVD (or voucher for these) from Fishpond Bookstore, which offers a huge range of goodies at below recommended retail prices.

1. Playsam Lacquered Wooden Toys: Racer $132 and Yo-Yo $22 at Metro Mum
2. Kid-made Dad’d Day Craft Inspiration at The Crafty Crow
3. Beauty and The Bees ‘Tiger’ Pack $23.95
4. Parent and Child Robe Set by Ocho: Robe + Slippers + Robe Slippers and Teddy $120 at Metro Mum
5. Apple iPhone in 3G or new 3GS model. Check here for stockists nationwide.
6. Gingerlilly Men Nicholas Pyjamas $79.95 from Pastel Pink
7. Dad Gear Courier Bag in blue $120 from Haggus and Stookles and Storksak Jamie Nappy Bag in Espresso $299 at Just Ripe
8. Dad Mugs $7.95 each at MetroMum Mugs
9. A book, CD or DVD from Fishpond.com.au
10. An Experience from Red Balloon Days

Please check individual stores for postage and delivery information. Also be sure to check the KidStyleFile Current Offers page, and the KidStyleFile Weekly Newsletter for discount codes to make sure you get the best possible deal. (If you’re not a subscriber already then you can sign up here – it’s free!)