KidStyleFile

Today, Miki has gathered together some wonderful suggestions to keep your children amused and stimulated. Whether your kids are little babies, or ‘grown-up’ bigger kids, there’s something here for everyone, so turn off the telly and let the games begin!

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Fun and Games from birth to 6 months

Babies from newborn to six months of age aren’t much for throwing a ball around in the back yard or playing chasey, but you can have lots of giggles with them nonetheless!

Right from the first couple of weeks, it’s really important that babies spend a bit of time each day on their tummies: ‘tummy time’.  It’s essential to do this in order to relieve pressure on the backs of their little heads and to encourage their neck muscles to strengthen so that they can begin to lift their head up.

Some babies love tummy time but many don’t, so I recommend investing in a good play gym (the Mamas & Papas one pictured below is great) in order to make it more interesting and stimulating for them.

The other important activity for little babies is encouraging them to reach and grab for objects.  Again, a good quality play gym will aid this but for when you’re out and about string a pram toy across the car seat and/or pram to give them something to aim for.

Heimess Bear Rattle, $19.95 $16.95* from Ekidna Kids*
Mamas & Papas Light and Sound Playmat & Gym, $199.95 from Little Possums Toys
Mamas & Papas Musical Pram Rattle, $23.80 also from Little Possums Toys

Fun and Games from 6-12 months 

From six to twelve months babies are developing mentally and physically at an astonishing pace!  During this period they’ll probably start shuffling, crawling or even walking.

Babies this age adore peekaboo games - try throwing a cot sheet over their head and slowly dragging it off again and see if you can keep a straight face over the giggles!

Also try hiding toys under containers for the baby to ‘find’, and stacking containers into towers for the baby to knock down.  Don’t worry about potential destructive tendencies emerging here, as babies learn about building from knocking down for the first couple of years.

Other great games for this age are rolling a ball back and forth between you and the baby, and bringing puppets into play.  Whole hand puppets or cute little finger puppets are a guaranteed to be a hit!

Crocodile Creek 7″ Playground Ball - Dogs, $18.95 $16.10* from Ekidna Kids
Djeco Topanimo, $49.95 from Little Possums Toys (gorgeous set of toys and boxes, great for hiding games)
Beneath The Leaf Fairy Finger Puppets - set of 3, $24.95 also from Little Possums Toy

Fun and Games from 12-15 months 

Sometime around the ages of 12-15 months, your little one will probably start walking!

An activity they’re guaranteed to adore at this stage is walking along behind a trolley.  They can load it up with their favourite toys and head off into the sunset. It goes without saying that it’s even more important than ever to make sure they’re in a safe environment for this though.

With babies/toddlers who are on the move (crawling or walking), setting up structures to ‘hide’ in and around is loads of fun.  Make sure you get down on their level to crawl with them; it will increase the giggles tenfold.

The play teepee from Kids Gift List pictured below is perfect for this sort of game and can be used indoors or outdoors.

At this age they’re also learning to post different shapes into slots, so a posting game of some sort can be great. I love the BRIO one pictured, it’s so sleek and shiny!

KGL Pink Teepee, $259.95 $220.95 from Kids Gift List*
BRIO Wooden Sorting Box, $38.95 from Little Possums Toys
Plan Toy Baby Walker With Blocks, $120.00 also from Little Possums Toys

Fun and Games from 2 to 3 years

Two to three year olds have SO MUCH ENERGY! Keeping up with them can be a challenge and their power for destruction around the house is huge if they aren’t kept entertained.

At this age they can really start to get into dress ups, so bring out your best wardrobe gear from the 80s and let them go wild.

From the little destructive tornadoes who would knock down every tower of blocks in sight, they’re now starting to get the hang of building so a good set of blocks is a must-have.  Good quality wooden blocks will last generations, and the Toys Pure set from Ekidna Kids look beautiful as well.  These are a big favourite in our house.

You can also start to introduce simple puzzles and memory games for ‘quiet times’ play. Don’t get too carried away with fancy shapes and pictures here yet, stick to something simple like the Mooo Basic Shapes Puzzle to allow them to get the hang of things.

Mooo Basic Shapes Puzzle, from $34.95 from Mooo
Toys Pure Shalimar Puzzle, $39.95 $33.95 from Ekidna Kids*
Djeco 9 Cube Jungle Puzzle, $15.95 from Little Possums Toys (great blocks for building, and also are great as a puzzle from 3+

Fun and Games from 3 to 5 years

Three to five year olds are developing quite advanced gross motor skills and love being active, so give them plenty of practice by encouraging games like ten pin bowls - easy to be enthusiastic about, given the gorgeous range of sets available these days.

To encourage the development of fine motor skills, bring out the art supplies. Drawing, painting, stamping and so on are loads of fun and are a great tool for parents if you need to keep the kids amused on a rainy day. Giving your child their own pencil case makes them feel special and grown up - check out the Capt’n Sharky and Princess Lillifee filled pencil cases from Gifts4Kidz.

The more advanced puzzles can be brought out around now - the personalised name puzzles from Mooo are perfect as they will also help your child learn to recognise his or her own name in written form… and of course they look fabulous!

Capt’n Sharky Filled Pencil Case and Princess Lillifee Filled Pencil Case, both $45.00 from Gifts4Kidz
Bowl Me Over Penguin Set, $21.95 $18.65 from Kids Gift List*
Personalised Wooden Name Puzzle, from $24.95 from Moo

Fun and Games from 5 years+

By now your big little person is at school! The house must be seeming very quiet during the weekdays, but no doubt the noise and energy is more than making up for it after school and on weekends.

Keep the pencils and art supplies from the previous ages, as writing stories is probably starting to become a favourite pastime at this point. Encourage them in their literary and artistic pursuits by always have pencils and paper available; you’ll be amazed at what your little Picassos and Tennysons will produce!

For burning off energy you just can’t beat a jumping rope. Even professional athletes use jump rope as a cardio excercise, and the best part is that it’s so much fun! Adults can take part just as much as the kids can - get two jump ropes going and see if you remember how to double dutch like you used to in primary school.  The kids will be incredibly impressed if you can

This is a brilliant age to be bringing kids into the kitchen as well, and making a pizza can be healthy, educational and a whole heap of fun.  If you’re not exactly a Michelin-starred chef yourself, the Kids In The Kitchen Pizza Box sets from Gifts4Kidz make it easy for you.

Little girls love to play hairdressers, but please don’t exclude the boys from this game either. Bring out some gel and some hair dressing equipment (the set below means they won’t be wrecking yours!) and let them all go to town, not just on each other but on your hair too!

Hairdressing kit and cape, $44.95 from Gifts4Kidz
Kids in the Kitchen Pizza Box - Black, $24.95 from Gifts4Kidz
KGL Skipping Rope - Zebra, $6.95 $5.90 from Kids Gift List*

Please check individual sites for postage details.

*Indicates discount or special offer through the Shop 4 Kids magazine code.

Ride-on toys are one of my favourite category of kids toys, and most certainly one of my children’s; they just love the mobility and independence of being on wheels.

The YBike, hailing from South Africa, is a new breed of balance bike designed for use from 18 months upwards, and engineered to help your child build the skills, balance and coordination needed to ride a big-kid bicycle.

This bike looks pretty rad, but the Harley-Davidsonesque styling of the YBike isn’t just for looks: this design is engineered to be ultra safe.

The front wheel is considerably further forward, affording a bigger turning circle, which reduces the risk of falling over the front when turning. The back wheel is also covered to stop children from riding over their feet. The YBike body is also designed for better clearance of obstacles and the larger wheels produce a safer ride on uneven surfaces.

The YBike is constructed is built to last too: the injection moulding eliminates weak points, and makes this bike super-tough. It’s available in 5 colours too, so there’s a look to suit every taste.

While the YBike’s superb design features may leave you breathless, the price tag will not: it sells for just AUD$99.95!

Pick up a current copy of Shop 4 Kids magazine to access the special KidStyleFile code to give you 15% off the YBike — making it a mere AUD$84.15 –  at Ekidna Kids.

If you can’t get to a newsagent you can email me for the code.

Ekidna Kids charge $6.95 postage, Australia wide, and international orders are welcome.

Psst! Want to get 20% off at Ekidna Kidswear - www.ekidnakidswear.com.au? Well, have I got the code for you!

Enter ‘KSF48′ in the coupon code section at checkout, and I predict you will be 20% luckier This offer is good for the next 48 hours only, so don’t dilly dally.

(If you’re coming to this post after midnight, September 12, never fear, you can still get a very healthy 15% off. Email me and I’ll give you the details).

As if you needed any other reason to shop at E-Kids, I’m going to give you two more:

1. by making a purchase in September you’ll go into the draw to win a cool-as YBike, valued at $99.95,
2. and if if you share your environmentally friendly tips with Joanne at Ekidna, you’ll be in the running to win a $50.00 Ekidna Kids voucher.

You are going to just love your little virtual road-trip over to Ekidna Kids:  Joanne has been stocking the rafters with the coolest new stock. I’m so impressed with what she has sourced for us!

First up, the YBike. A fantastic new style of balance bike, the YBike has been engineered to help improve your child’s balance and co-ordination skills.

The safety aspects of the YBike are also very appealing. The front wheel is considerably further forward, affording a bigger turning circle, which reduces the risk of falling over the front when turning. The back wheel is also covered to stop children from riding over their feet. The YBike body is designed for better clearance of obstacles and the larger wheels produce a safer ride on uneven surfaces.

The YBike is constructed to last; the injection moulding eliminates weak points, and makes this bike super-tough.

Apparently the YBike can be used by tots as young as 18 months old, so this is a product with great longevity that is robust enough to last how ever many children you need to throw at it.

The YBike sounds, and looks, incredible! While the bike’s superb features may leave you breathless, the price tag will not: the YBike is a mere $99.95 (less 20% until Friday 12 - makes it just $79.96!! - and 15% after that.)

On the clothing front, I have to mention the new Eternal Creation collection that has just landed. In my opinion, this is their best collection yet. I am very taken with the 50’s-inspired styling and prints; very mini-Audrey!The Miatom tees are also very sweet, bringing a taste of Japan, and a slice of Italy to the table with their funky prints. E-Kids have also received the new season’s Bebe by Minihaha ranges in for baby boys and girls, and it’s super sweet.

The Flirty Bird hair accessories I simply have to rave about. I am a huge fan of their cute and quirky hair ponies, and we have an extensive collection of them, including the Bambi and Bear in the Woods varieties below. Choose also from their very lovely clippies.

The Cheeky Little Soles summer sandals are just so sweet. I saw these in the flesh at the Kids inSTYLE trade show in Melbourne recently, and they really do have to be seen and touched to be believed. Sooo soft - they almost feel like a little one’s warm little foot - and Lisa at CLS has really outdone herself with the designs this season.

Tippy Toes fans will be pleased to know that Annabel Trends has brought out several new designs to delight you with. BabyLegs has also released a range of new patterns; I’m loving the Retro Herringbone for summer.

Mums of toddlers should know about the very practical, and incredibly stylish Foogo snack cups and drink containers, and mums with babes in arms will be thrilled to know that Ekidna Kids is now carrying the revolutionary Adiri baby bottles.

See my picks below to get you started, and view the New Arrivals section at Ekidna Kids to discover the whole story on new products just in.

From top left in rows:

Prices quoted are after 20% discount with code until September 12. After this date you can get a 15% off code: email me and I’ll give you the details.

Miatom Vespa Tee  $24.95 20% off = $19.96
BabyLegs Retro Blue Herringbone $16.50 20% off = $13.20
Cheeky Little Soles - ‘Boys Club’ Summer Sandal $35.95 20% off = $28.76
Bebe by Minihaha ‘Oscar’ bodysuit $28.95 20% off = $23.16
Flirty Bird Hair Ponies - sold in a pair $8.95 each 20% off = $7.16
Foogo Stainless Steel Leak-proof Straw Bottle $21.95 20% off = $17.56
Miatom Japan Doll Tee $24.95 20% off = $19.96
Eternal Creation ‘Tuscany’ sundress $46.95 20% off = $37.56
Foogo Stainless Steel Leak-proof Sippy Cup $24.95 20% off = $19.96
Adiri baby bottle Variety of flows etc. available (all bottles 236ml) $19.95 20% off = $15.96
Cheeky Little Soles - ‘Nesting’ Summer Sandal $35.95 20% off = $28.76
BabyLegs Retro Pink Herringbone $16.50 20% off = $13.20
Annabel Trends Tippy Toes socks - box of 6 $19.95 20% off = $15.96
YBike - available in 5 colour choices $99.95 20% off = $79.96

If you want to scoop up some fabulous bargains check out the ‘Specials’ page and feel oh-so-glad that you did

Ekidna Kids now have a blog; a great place to keep abreast of developments at Ekidna Kids. Check it out.

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.

A new baby coming into the world is a very special event, and one to celebrate with jubilation. Prepare for the imminent arrival with a baby shower filled with love, and some very special gifts. Today, Miki shares a few of her favourite picks for baby shower pressies.

Today’s post was inspired by KidStyleFile reader Tina

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If there’s one party I love going to every time it’s a baby shower.

There’s something about getting a gaggle of women together to cluck over the expectant mum, eat yummy nibbles and goo and ga over teeny tiny baby clothes and sweet little toys.

I also love choosing the gift to take. These days, of course, I don’t have to rush around every baby store in town to try to find the perfect gift because we have a plethora of beautiful baby boutiques at our fingertips online. Makes everything so much easier!

Now, in choosing what to give the ‘mum to be’ I have a few guidelines which I try to abide by.

The first applies to baby clothing, and it is simply to think about what season it’s going to be when the baby is most likely to fit into the outfit. A woolly hat and jumper in newborn size isn’t going to get as much use if the baby is due in January, so it might be better to go for a lightweight romper and cool muslin wrap.

I also try to get at least some baby clothes in a size bigger than newborn. In my experience, everyone gives exquisite, adorable, minuscule newborn sized clothes, but babies grow so fast that they don’t get a chance to wear all these beautiful pieces more than once or twice. Sizes 00 (3-6 months) or 0 (6-12 months) tend to get much more wear, and it’s lovely to have something there for the baby to grow into.

Next, I always try to get something for the mum as well. The baby shower is a great time to pamper mum as once bubs arrives all the attention will be on the little one! Some luscious skin products (there are some gorgeous ones featured below) or yummy chocolates will go down a treat.

Now what about if you’re the one organising the baby shower?

Well, first thing to think about are the games to play! Mummy’s Favourite - www.mummysfavourite.com.au - have a great list of baby shower games at the bottom of their ‘baby shower gifts’ category.

Then just make sure you have delicious, healthy nibbles and some funky invites to send out (I love the range of invitations at La La Baby - www.lalababy.com.au).

Before you know it you’ll be ready to go!

Here are some of my favourite gifts to take to baby showers:

ISOKI Petite Traveller - Zanzibar, $39.95 $33.95 from Ekidna Kids*
Pure Baby Puff Sleeve Bodysuit - Watermelon Stripe, $29.95 $13.95 from Urban Child (also available in Kiwi Stripe)
Grey Owl Applique Baby Romper, $21.95 from La La Baby**
Belli Pregnancy Gift Box, $84.95 from Urban Child
‘That’s Not My Tractor’ Touchy Feely Book, $14.95 from La La Baby**
Britt Design Twinkle Gift Boxed Set, $49.95 $42.45 from La Toriana*
Cuddle Mouse, $64.95 $55.20 from Kids Gift List*
i candy ‘nobody puts baby in a corner’ tee, $27.95 $23.75 from La Toriana*
aden + anais Muslin Wraps, $54.95 $41.21 for a pack of 4, from Pastel Pink***
The Hip Infant Basics Nightie - Scarlet & Aqua stripe, $29.95 $26.95 from The Hip Infant*
The Hip Infant Basics Long Eared Bunny - Scarlet & Aqua Stripe, $15.95 $14.35 from The Hip Infant*
David Fussenegger Pastel Bassinet Blanket, $49.50 $42.08 from Pastel Pink***

Also, check out new kids on the block Just Ripe - www.justripe.com.au - and 9 Months Waiting - www.9monthswaiting.com.au -  for a fabulous selection of products for newborn to two years, and Skeanie - www.skeanie.com - for perfect footwear for tiny tootsies.

Please check individual stores for shipping charges.

*Shop4Kids discount available from The Hip Infant, La Toriana and Kids Gift List.
**La La Baby: FREE gift with purchase until 19 September!
***Pastel Pink: 25% off storewide until midnight 7th September!

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.

Post written by Miki
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Following on from last week’s US Designers special feature, this week we’re heading across the Atlantic to the United Kingdom.

The UK has long been a source of leading children’s- wear and equipment. Iconic names such as Silver Cross prams instantly bring to mind classic chic, perfectly groomed nannies or the more modern ‘yummy mummies’ parading through Hyde Park with their beautifully dressed offspring on full display.

Hey, if you have a baby you’re proud of and gorgeous gear for him or her, why not show them off?

That concept shows in UK designers products - they’re always gorgeous to look at (not to mention touch) and practical to boot. And now, thanks to some of Australia’s top children’s-wear online boutiques, we can access the best of British design from the comfort of our living rooms.

So get comfy and have a look at some of my picks for the week!

Fairy Kisses

Fairy Kisses - www.fairykisses.com.au - stock the cutest little leather babyshoes from Starchild. I’m sure you’ve seen these before, they’re just so sweet! For the traditionalists among us there is Nenuphar London: timeless designs with a hint of their French heritage. Any child couldn’t help but look as though butter wouldn’t melt in their mouth wearing these clothes! They’re especially perfect for special occasions.

If you prefer organic cotton on your precious little one’s skin, there are two designers I would bring to your attention: Piccalilly Organics and Little Blue dog. Both have loads of adorable designs and are so gentle on babies’ skin!

Starchild ballerina shoes in blue, $42.95
Piccalilly red organic hoodie, $39.95
Little Blue Dog signature baseball top, $38.95
Little Blue Dog cat romper, $38.95
Nenuphar London puff sleeve dress, $84.95
Starchild gingham Jolly Roger shoes, $39.95

Urban Child

Another great place to stock up on UK designers is Urban Child - www.urbanchild.com.au. Here you can find simply beautiful baby clothes, blankets and accessories from AraVore Babies. Exclusively imported from London, all organic and knitted from exquisitely soft ‘Fair Trade’ cotton and merino wool, they are the most wonderful baby presents, especially for a winter baby. It’s the kind of gift that will become a family heirloom!

Urban Child also have the ever-popular Albetta (I’m in love with Albetta babygrows; could they get any cuter?) and a selection of WOW toys - these toys are destined to be come favourites with everyone, you can’t go wrong with them.

WOW toys ‘Motorbike Max’, $24.95
AraVore Babies organic vintage matinee coat, $105.00
Albetta Flying Machines babygrow, $42.00 $21.95 (great price!!)
AraVore Babies pink stripe jumper, $82.00
Albetta booties -blue velvet gingham, $24.95 $9.95 (even greater price!!)
Ekidna Kids

One of my all-time favourite stuffed toy brands is ‘Mamas & Papas‘ from the UK. These knitted and fleece animals are really lovely - just a bit quirky, a bit whimsical and bound to be adored.

The fleece ones can just be flung in the washing machine and the knitted ones are easy enough to spot clean. I know this because I got tomato sauce on my friend’s knitted puppy a couple of months ago - don’t ask - and was totally mortified until I realised the stain had come right out! (Promise not to tell her please )

My favourite place to get these in Australia is Ekidna Kids - www.ekidnakids.com.au.

M&P Colour Bunch soft toy - Tuli, $21.95
M&P Knitted lamb gift toy, $39.95
M&P Knitted puppy gift toy, $39.95
M&P Kitted bear gift toy, $39.95
M&P Colour Bunch soft toy - Baru, $21.95

Kids Gift List
Two fabulous UK designers at Kids Gift List - www.kidsgiftlist.com.au. The first is Sparrowkids, designers of stunning ‘DIY’ craft kits for kids. All the materials are Fair Trade (you can have very thought-provoking discussions with the kids over this topic) and they’re great quality. Craft projects aren’t just for the girls. Show me the primary school boy who could resist the pencilcase rocket!

The other designer is Trunki, which is only the best luggage for kids in the whole wide world. Seriously, who could ever go past the funky little ride-on suitcases with horns?

Sized to be carry-on baggage compliant, light enough for parents to carry comfortably over their shoulder and robust enough for not just one but two preschoolers to ride, these little suitcases are too cool.

Perfect for 3-6 year olds, and they are just as good for overnight stays at the grandparents’ place as international jetsetting!

Sparrowkids DIY felt butterfly bag, $28.95
Sparrowkids DIY felt sparrow bag, $28.95
Sparrowkids DIY rocket pencil case, $39.95
Trunki ride-on suitcases, pink and blue, $63.95

Please check individual store for postage prices and information.

Post written by Miki
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One of the occupational hazards of KidStyleFile is that I find myself in temptation’s way all too often: so much cool stuff at such great discounts - how could I not buy at least some of it?

My poor old credit card has taken a hammering over the last few months, but you know what? I don’t regret a single one of my purchases so far.

Because I think that’s a pretty solid endorsement of what I’ve bought, I thought I’d showcase some of my favourites today. (I’ve taken my own photos for this, so I apologise for the slightly dodgy photos; hopefully you’ll get the idea at least )

Threads
I love little boys’ clothes. My son Alex (aged nearly one) has a fairly extensive wardrobe, but we do have a few favourites.

I know I rave on about these at every chance I get, but the American Apparel baby rib karate pants are revered in this household. Comfy, stretchy and still really cool looking, he wears them… well, most days actually, now that I think about it!

I always get ours from Frock You - www.frockyou.com.au - because Kat stocks such a great range of sizes and colours and has such kick-ass sales. There’s also the My Child magazine discount code*(see bottom of page) which gives you 20% off storewide!

I’ve bought a few tops from Frock You too - currently Alex is wearing Smirk tees (I love the Smirk designs, it’s my absolute favourite kids tee brand) and Ej Sikke Lej too.

The other favourite top du jour is his Oobi ‘Bella the Martian’ hoodie, which I bought from Fairy Kisses - www.fairykisses.com.au.

Fairy Kisses have a brilliant price on this one at the moment, check it out! The other great thing about this hoodie is that Angela gave Alex the matching Oobi Timorous Beastie: too cute!

Kindy Kamper

The Kindy Kamper - from www.kindykamper.com.au - was another present from Angela (yes, she spoils us rotten). Even though it’s marketed at pre-schoolers it’s actually really great for babies too because it fits into portacots so nicely!

We do a lot of travelling to see our respective families and having the Kindy Kamper has made bedding for Alex a breeze. I just grab the KK and the portacot and that’s it - nothing else needed! The little loops on the bottom of the KK padded base fit over the portacot matress perfectly (they’re adjustable for different sizes of matress too) and the padding in the KK base makes the portacot matress softer too. I can tuck Alex in just like normal, so he’s happy and comfy.

Once we’re home again it’s just as easy. The KK gets flung in the washing machine, then it dries just as well either on the line or in the dryer, and then it’s ready to go all over again.

It’s also Alex’s cot bedding at daycare - no more lost sheets or having to sew name tags on to about eight different items, as the KK covers it all. Couldn’t be easier.

Here’s a photo of the KK set up in my portacot (which is a Phil & Teds T2), and with Alex in it. Please excuse the rather, erm, ‘vibrant’ playroom floor in the background!

Bags

My ISOKI petite traveller (from Ekidna Kids - www.ekidnakids.com.au) goes everywhere with me these days, whether I have Alex with me or not. It’s small enough to be easy for me to take around (not much bigger than a clutch really) but big enough to fit everything a mum could need when she’s out running errands.

I’ve just emptied mine out on the desk, and this is what I fit in it:

Two disposable nappies, a travel pack of nappy wipes, a few nappy sacks, a twin-pack of teething rusks, a little box of sultanas, a muesli bar, a bib, my mobile phone, some cash (sadly not very much), a notebook and pen, my keys and all the cards I use on a daily basis - credit card, EFTPOS card, library card etc. And I still have plenty of room for a bottle and my sunglasses etc.

It’s amazing how much fits into such a little bag!

Another favourite in my nappy bag collection is my Vanchi Carry All Nappy Bag in choc tudor.

The best price I’ve seen on these is at La Toriana when you use the My Child magazine discount code*(see bottom of page) to take 15% off AND get a free gift.

It’s had a hard life, my Vanchi, but I have to say that it’s so well made that it’s taken all the abuse I’ve thrown at it and not batted an eyelash. Once I brushed the smooshed biscuit off it I realised that it actually still looks like new! I love this nappy bag precisely because it doesn’t look like a nappy bag - perfect!

The other bag that really deserves a mention is the Fleurville kids messenger bag, which hails from from Itty Bitty Yuppy - www.ittybittyyuppy.com.au.

Things I love about this bag (besides its obviously gorgeous looks) are its size; small enough that a pre-schooler can carry it, but big enough that I don’t look silly carrying it either, and the unique PVC-free fabric it’s made from. It feels great (really soft but tough) and it’s such good quality.

It also came with an insulated lunch bag which is very handy for being out and about. This is the bag that goes to daycare with Alex as it fits everything he needs for the day: lunch, nappies, change of clothes, bottle etc. etc.

Please visit individual website for product prices and postage information.

* If you can’t get to a newsagent then email Angela; she’s nice and she’ll give you the code

Ekidna Kidswear - www.ekidnakidswear.com.au - has just turned two - Happy Birthday, Ekidna Kids, you are a star child indeed!

Like any proud Mum, Joanne at Ekidna is celebrating this achievement to the full. Joanne’s in full party mode, and you will be too when you hop over to EK!

Dash on over to Ekidna Kids, take your pick of the hundreds of fine products including girls boys and babies clothing, toys, boutique party invitations, wall decals, nappy bags, and much more, and reduce your purchase price by 25%.

That’s not all, folks: spend over $100.00 and you get a FREE Uchi purse valued at $14.95. Offer valid while stocks last. Limit of 1 per customer.

Yowza! I *like* it!

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 of last summer’s gear up to 50% off check out the ‘Specials’ page and feel oh so glad that you did (lots of Oobi in there for you OobiWatchers)!

Check out just a handful of my hot picks below.

I’m feeling a bit nostalgia for the little bebes at the mo, so have turned my gaze towards lush products for the littlest ones and their mamas (don’t forget the mamas!!)

It took me a while to realise it, but turns out my little bebes looked best in classic pieces; heirloom knits and solid colours. The Bebe set exemplifies the classiness of this look. Start your own heirloom collection today.

I love the Infancy Spotted Romper and Bebe PJs for little men: ah, how snuggly.

Wrap your classy little man or Ms in a high quality Fish Lilly wrap. The gentleness and softness of their designs soothes Mums and babes alike. Just love ‘em!

Buy a new mama a Smart Moms Teething Bling Bangle or three, and make her feel a bit special, and also savvy: she’ll look stylish and never be short of a safe distraction for her little baby again (and how cheap are they!!?)

The Karma Baby Slings are celebrity cool, and super affordable, and the Isoki Petite-Travellers are a perfect gift for on the move, style-conscious Mums. I just bought one for Miki, who’s travelling to New Zealand soon, and she loves it

From top left, in rows:

Bebe Pink Lemonade Pointelle Leggings with Feet $43.95 25% off NOW $32.96
Bebe Pink Lemonade Pointelle Cardigan $44.95 25% off NOW $33.71
Bebe Pink Lemonade Pointelle Beanie $23.95 25% off NOW $17.96
Bebe ‘Fly with Me’ pyjamas $34.95 25% off NOW $26.96
Infancy Grey Spotted Romper (also available in pink) $38.50 25% off NOW $28.88
Fish Lilly Luxury Baby Wraps - available in 12 designs $47.95 25% off NOW $35.96
Smart Mom Teething Bling Bangle $12.95 25% off NOW $9.71
Isoki Petite Traveller $39.95 25% off NOW $29.96
Karma Baby Bella Pouch Baby Sling $89.95 25% off NOW $67.46

Ah, and now onto a subject I can’t ever get enough of: toys and decor

The My Munchkin Home decals bring an instant lift to a room, without requiring a life-long commitment. This elephant is BIG, and so uplifting, and what a steal 25% off!

I love these Crocodile Creek mini-puzzles: perfect size (and price!) for party bag inclusion, or toilet training incentives.

If you’re looking for a classy gift to give, you can’t go past Mamas and Papas, one of the UKs leading nursery brands. Also for littlies, these Chelona timber books are eco-friendly and great for stimulating hand-eye co-ordination. For older kids, Zoobie Pets are just perfect. They’re actually 3 toys in 1: a cuddly toy, pillow and blankie. Gotta love the triple-duty here, not to mention the infinite cuteness.

This Toys Pure Shalimar Puzzle promises endless playtime fun, with it’s fab colours and endless configuration possibilities (I gifted this to Miki’s son, Alex, and Mik says it’s every bit as cool as it looks!)

Another timber treasure is the Heimess wooden car, available in red and orange colour-ways. Give it as a gift with the Lark Knitted Ice-cream rattle (perfectly shaped for little hands, and appropriate for munching from birth up) and the Crocodile Creek PVC-free ball (also available in orange dog design), and you’ll be forever loved and thanked for it.

From top left, in rows:

My Munchkin Home ‘My Elephant’ Giant Wall Decal $99.95 25% off NOW $74.96
Crocodile Creek Double-sided Dinosaur Mini-puzzle $4.95 25% off NOW $3.71
Mamas and Papas Colour Bunch Arlo Toy $21.95 25% off NOW $16.46
Chelona Play Book - Frog $19.95 25% off NOW $14.96
Zoobie Pets $59.95 25% off NOW $44.96
Toys Pure Shalimar Puzzle $39.95 25% off NOW $29.96
Crocodile Creek PVC-free 18cm ball $18.95 25% off NOW $14.21
Heimess Car (also available in orange) $15.95 25% off NOW $11.96
Lark Ice-cream Kintted Rattle $14.95 25% off NOW $11.21

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.

Today, Miki brings you a gorgeous selection of clothing for little girls from birth to three years. There are so many beautiful finds here, and lots of wonderful deals on offer too, so hold on to your credit cards, and dive in!

Next week: Girlswear for 3-7 years

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I have an imaginary daughter.

Is that weird? I know of kids who’ve had imaginary friends to talk to, and it isn’t like that; she and I have never had a conversation or anything of the kind.

But I do love to pick out clothes for her!

Even though I wouldn’t swap my little boy for anything, and despite all the funky boyswear on the market these days, I still find myself clucking over something like the Baobab horse print dress or the Mill & Mia denim pinafore. (Hey, I’m only human! Find me the woman who wouldn’t go all dotty over gorgeous bits and pieces like those!!)

Luckily for me, this week I’m indulging my fantasy-daughter-dressing to the max. Here are my pics for girlswear for the threes-and-under:

Ekidna Kids
Let’s start off with the ever-fantabulous Ekidna Kids - www.ekidnakids.com.au.

Stockists of a vast range of the best brands around, like - and keep in mind that this is just the tip of the iceberg - Smirk, Minihaha, Monday’s Child, Koby, Fish Lily and Oobi; Ekidna Kids are truly a shopping mum’s delight. Their stunning range of girlswear made my job of choosing just a few pieces to showcase extreeeemely difficult it must be said!

Ekidna Kids are even more appealing than ever at the moment too: they’re having a store-wide 25% off mega-sale to celebrate their second birthday! So hip hip hurrah for Ekidna Kids, and they certainly are jolly good fellows!

Minihaha Orient top with Sleeve Print, $36.95 $27.71
Eternal Creation Orleans Denim Ribbon Skirt, $41.95 $31.46
Vintage Kid ‘Ruby’ Shift Dress, $69.95 $52.46
Koby Spot/Jaquard Reversible Pinafore $44.95 $33.71 I love that this is reversible - effectively two gorgeous dresses in one!
Minihaha Vintage Long Sleeve Tee with Lace Print, $47.00 $26.96
Minihaha Coco Pants, $54.95 $41.21

ShopHouse
And on to the next gorgeous girlswear retailer: ShopHouse www.shophouse.com.au.

Recently ShopHouse have started stocking Mill & Mia, one of the funkiest Australian designers out there, and they always have a big range of Penny Scallan who I just love. I also love the extremely groovy IDTees, there are loads of designs all personalised with your kid’s name - what a great gift idea, if you can bear to give them away!

I think the best deal at the moment is on the Kee Ka organics range: for a limited time, buy one item and get one free! You can’t do better than that!

Make sure you look at the rest of ShopHouse while you’re there, as their accessories, decor and the like are second to none. I’m especially loving the Cocoon Couture growth charts right now.

Just to make it even more tempting to buy from ShopHouse, they’re currently offering 25% off all winter clothing and FREE Express Post on all orders  for the month of June - so buy up big with those discounts!

You’ll also receive FREE Bubble Bath when you buy any two products from the Bod or Eco.Kid until June 30.