Chiklit was launched in spring of this year by mom and Ontario Collage of Art graduate Lisa Riley, who has taken the name of her business from her daugher Finley’s nickname. Lisa formerly specialized in photography of babies and children, and is now excited to combine her passion for children with her love of painting. “Going forward I’ll be offering my photography work, but through my themed painting series, and custom nursery murals, I’ll be connecting with kids and their parents in a different way: through our shared sense of delight with the world – its colours, its creatures and its humour” she says.

Her original artwork comes ready to hang and is painted on high quality, two inch deep canvas and this particular series of animals at play are strong on colour and whimsey, perfect for play rooms or above your little one’s bed.

All artwork, originals and competitively priced reproductions, can be purchased on the Chicklit website. Keep an eye out over there for photography to come, and no doubt more cute paintings, Lisa says “Strange and funny ideas continue to flood my brain and with my husband’s support I keep painting, and painting. One thing’s for sure, I crack myself up and I hope that my paintings make others laugh too.”

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As moms themselves, co-owners and friends Karen Pukesh and Shannon Gander know how frustrating and challenging it can be for new moms to find their groove. Their store is thoughtfully designed with parents and children in mind and features extra room for strollers, a private mom area complete with change table as well as a comfy lounge area for feeding time and an exciting, safe and fun play area to keep your older children entertained while you shop.

But Monkey Business is more than just a boutique style clothing store, they offer a wide selection of invaluable classes for expectant and new parents including prenatal classes, prenatal yoga as well as the newest addition, a children’s first aid certification class. They also carry a wide selection of fabulous room decor and lots of games and toys designed to stimulate and challenge young minds.

Karen and Shannon’s passion is customer service and you can be sure that you’ll be served with great care and attention. Are you stumped as to what to get for that baby shower gift or upcoming birthday? These lovely ladies will be glad to suggest the perfect gift to fit your budget and occasion. They’ll even gift wrap it for you and help you pick out an original handmade card to perfectly complement your wonderful gift. You can’t get more personal than that!

Top recommendations for new and expectant parents include the Ergo Carrier, BOB stroller, Aden and Anais muslin swaddlers, Bug and Pickle belly cream, Sophie the Giraffe, Bebe Au Lait nursing covers and the absolutely fabulous and stylish Amy Michelle diaper bags.

For older children, be sure to check out their selection of Playmobil, Tutu Love tutus, games, and for all you dedicated and loyal fans, Canucks jerseys for the kids! They also have fantastic prices on adorable tricycles and the ever popular Adams run bike.

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Whole Foods on Cambie is the perfect spot for moms. It’s great to meet other moms socially or to get out of your home office for a few hours – and get a few things errands done at the same time.

For those of you not familiar with Whole Foods, they are an American high-end grocery chain. Most of the products you’ll find here are gourmet and organic. If you watch Top Chef, you’ll know that the competitors always go to Whole Foods as part of their challenges since the produce, seafood and meats, and packaged goods are top notch. Think about the health food grocery stores in your neighbourhood, combine that with a Safeway, add a few more gourmet items, and you’re on the right track.

There are two eating areas at the Cambie location. When you emerge from the parkeing garage (free for an hour and a half if you’re shopping at Whole Foods), a small cafe is within view. You can order specialty organic teas and coffees. If you are a vegan or eating a gluten-free diet, they have plenty of baked goods that you can choose from. They also have many milk options for your lattes, including soy and almond milk.

You don’t have to stay in the cafe if you don’t want to. Right beside the cafe is a little cafeteria area – and this is where the Whole Foods really shines for moms. There is plenty of room for strollers; groups of two, three or more moms and their strollers can easily converge onto this area. Smaller kids can also occupy themselves in the play area, equipped with a little table, some cute kid-sized wing back chairs and a few toys. The bathroom has change tables and also a little built-in step that pint-sized tykes can stand one when they’re cleaning up – no more trying to hold them up on your knee while they do a spotty job of washing their hands. And the bathroom has that fabulous Dyson Airblade hand dryer; I have to admit that I still get a bit giddy when I see one of those gadgets.

The cafeteria offers a phenomenal selection of healthy eating options. If you meet for breakfast, they have a hot breakfast counter where you can order pancakes and omelets until 11:00. Lunch is even better. Fill your plate up at a huge and attractive salad bar, with healthy favourites like tofu, chickpeas and tuna. You can also order a sandwich or pick up some sushi. My personal favourite are the thin crust pizzas and the spinach, mushroom and blue cheese option was a hit. But beware if you come at lunch: the place is a bit of a zoo.

If you live or work in the area, you can get anything to go. But if you’re someone who works from home and who wants a change of scenery, you can take advantage of Whole Foods’ free wireless, and a counter that has ample power stations for you to plug in that ailing laptop. Once you’re done, spend a few minutes shopping for dinner. the supplements that you keep forgetting to pick up or a fresh bouquet of flowers for a little pick-me-up.

In fact, I’ll probably close this laptop and do that right now!

Whole Foods Cambie

510 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver, BC

www.wholefoodsmarket.com

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Like many people in the Lower Mainland, Yan Lu and her husband Chan loved to explore the outdoors, but couldn’t find the right equipment for their then infant daughter. “The baby carriers available in stores were uncomfortable and too expensive for our needs,” Chan explains, “and we couldn’t find fleece products that were of the professional quality we were looking for.” The new parents were concerned about how to keep their baby warm and dry during their outdoor adventures and knew that going to the local department store just wouldn’t cut it. They also found the popular nearby outdoor equipment store carried only a limited selection of baby clothing and at a price point that seemed a little too expensive for their needs.

As a mom, Yan frequently would go outdoors with her daughter and other moms, and also saw how moms connected with each other through outdoor experiences. “Hiking, walking and meeting outdoors are some of the favourite social ways for new moms to meet each other and share parenting experiences,” says Yan. Seeing that there was a real need for a store that specialized in active babies and their parents, Yan and Chan decided to open Active Baby about a year ago in Capilano Mall. Not only is the store close to home, but the couple knew that their key customers – active, outdoorsy parents – would live in a city where 25 percent of the land is covered by park and trails.

Chan tells me that Active Baby’s competition carries a small selection of baby carriers and only at the very top end and price point of the spectrum. Active Baby strives to offer more choice – and it’s evident in their huge wall of baby backpack carriers. I don’t doubt that Active Baby has the best selection of backpack carriers in the Lower Mainland, covering brands from Kelty Kids, Deutor, Little Life and Tatonka. Looking for a baby backpack carrier for those times when you’re walking the dog for an hour along the trail? Something that can handle light hiking day trips? A carrier designed for multi-day backpacking? No problem; Active Baby has the backpack carrier you’re looking for.

As Chan tours me through the store, I’m blown away by the depth of his knowledge and the amount that I didn’t consider. I can see that the store’s biggest challenge might be overcoming parents who want to be active, but can’t decipher the difference between a shirt from Sears and a similar looking one from Active Baby. I suppose this is why they regularly schedule workshops to educate customers about being outdoors with young children. In the January, they held a popular snowshoeing workshop and last week, they hosted a backpack carrier clinic.

Chan also shows me a few of Active Baby’s clothing products and it’s clear that their clothing line will meet the needs of outdoorsy parents. Chan tells me that many parents have the misconception that baby is best in puffy layers and shows me an alternative: a fleece-lined jacket accompanied with rain and wind resistant pants from Columbia, along with a base layer from Patagonia. I can’t help but think how much I could have used those items when my second daughter was just a baby. I didn’t know how to bundle her properly in the front baby carrier while we were out walking in the winter. I’d pack on the layers, even though she clearly wasn’t comfortable, but I didn’t know there were options.

He also shows a Patagonia shirt made from recycled bottles that is the only natural product that offers sun protection up to SPF 30. “Most garments need to be processed in chemicals to get to SPF 50,” he explains. Adult skin might be able to handle that, but it really isn’t the best choice for children. He also shows me a wide array of organic products, emphasizing the importance of limiting the amount of chemicals that come in contact with your baby’s skin.

Active Baby also has an incredible selection for infant and toddler swimwear. Along with regular swimsuits, Active Baby also has flotation swimsuits for children as young as infants and SPF swimshirts and shorts. They also carry all the swimming accessories from hats, shoes and sunglasses. Chan also points out that they could sell any life jacket for kids, but chose to carry Salus because it was approved by the Canadian Coast Guard.

Even if you aren’t looking for technical wear and equipment for you and your kid, a visit to Active Baby wouldn’t be wasted; the store carries a variety of baby gear, including strollers from Baby Jogger and more, along with baby basics like toys, bottles and more.

Not in Active Baby’s area? No problem. The store has a fully functioning e-commerce site that has a healthy selection of products, along with useful features like a gift registry.

Active Baby

73-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver
www.activebaby.ca | (604) 986-8977

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“People think consignment is worn out and shabby looking,” says Angie Heintz, owner of Beansprouts, an adorable kids store on Main Street that features an extensive “pre-loved” section that includes clothing, shoes, books and wooden toys. This assumption couldn’t be further from the truth since buying consignment has the added benefit of having someone review the clothes before they are accepted for sale. “So much of consignment has never been worn and is waiting for a new home.” The result: practically new clothes at terrific prices.

Here are some things to consider when buying and selling children’s clothes on consignment.

Crediblity

I prefer purchasing baby clothes at baby consignment shops that specialize in baby items, including used kids clothes. You can shop in these stores with confidence knowing that the items have been given a thorough once-over by the store owner or staff. “We carefully check every item we take in,” says Angie. These stores also attract moms who are wanting to unload their clothes, so these shops often have a wide selection of consignment clothes for children. Many stores have strict consignment guidelines that can further benefit the shopper. Beansprouts, for example, will only accept clothes that are fashionably current, stain-free and in-season. You might also want to check policies around accepting clothing in smoke-free or animal-free environments.

See For Yourself

I personally know the aggravation of taking a consignment item home and not realizing that one of the snaps wasn’t working. Even though you might be in a specialty store, it’s still important that you take the time to check out the item. Beansprouts endeavours to catch any issues, but no one is perfect. “We try really hard,” says Angie, “but there is always the chance that something has been overlooked.” She recommends that you check all the snaps and make sure that the zippers work. Also make sure that there are no stains. Obvious spots are of course the front of any shirts, the back and leg-holes on onesies and sleepers where there might have been a breach in the diaper. Examine pant knees and bum areas for wear. Also review the general construction of the garment to make sure that the item is well-made and in decent condition.

What To Look For

What you buy on a consignment shop really depends on what you need. Angie has seen a lot of moms receive specialty outfits as presents, but are missing basics like sleepers, socks and onesies. She also points out that moms shop consignment because they aren’t comfortable buying new, like if the child will only wear or use the item, like a fancy dress, a few times, or for items that have great resale value and are perfect to pass on  – like a wooden train set or a muddy buddy rain suit. I personally had a friend who preferred buying second-hand garments since they had been washed a few times and were free of manufacturing chemicals.

Shopping Secrets

“Keep your eyes out for shoes and jackets that are in great shape and in a size that your little one will grow into,” advises Angie, who knows that these items are harder to find on consignment. She also recommends keeping your eyes peeled for rain gear – an essential in Vancouver. For these items, she suggests snapping them up even if the item is a bit big. “Go for it! They will always need it.”

Selling Secrets

If you’re selling, Angie recommends calling ahead if you are planning to drop off items since every store’s consignment policies are different. “Consignment is very difficult to manage and the guidelines are in place for a reason.”

When selling, it’s also important to keep the season in mind. Stores generally start purchasing items well before the season starts so that they can switch over from one season to another. So if it’s December, the store might be selling winter items, but they are already accepting clothing for spring. Some stores will time the intake and pick-up schedule so that it’s easier for everyone. For example, Beansprouts has dates that fit with the flow of the seasons and schedules only two times for sellers to pick up the items that didn’t sell well. “When it is time to pick up your fall/winter returns (consignment that did not sell), it is also time to drop off spring and same goes for the summer returns and fall/winter drop off.”

Check out Beansprouts at 4305 Main St (at E 27th Ave.) or online at www.beansprouts.ca (web), @beansprouts_van (Twitter) or on Facebook.

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I first heard about Village Toy Shop when researching a recent feature on Easy Daysies. Nestled in Port Moody’s charming Newport Village, the Village Toy Shop is the brainchild of Kirsten Anderson. The love of toys runs in Kirsten’s family; her mother Victoria Andreson opened the original Granville Toy Company.

Even if you’re a city gal like me, don’t cross this gem off your list of places to visit. The store makes a great family destination and you’ll enjoy checking out Newport Village’s shops and cafes. A stroll through nearby Rocky Point park is a great way to cap off any afternoon.

Kirsten shared with us what she loves about owning her store, what she thinks makes her shop unique, as well why she picked Port Moody.

How did your mom inspire your business?

After a brief career in movie theatre management in 1990, I started working for my mom in the family business The Granville Island Toy Company in Kids Market. It was such a blessing to have 10 years of mentoring. Her years as a preschool owner and teacher gave her a foundation in product selection second to none. To this day, I still look to my mom for her support and wisdom.

Why Port Moody?

When I discovered Newport Village, it was love at first sight. It was a dream I held for years to be able to find that European old-fashioned feel for my own venture. The Village is a place where people often come daily for their fresh Italian baking, for the fish monger, the butcher, or the many other unique independent mom-and-pop-owned businesses. This experience of shopping in the fresh air was in keeping with my Granville Island and Fort Langley roots and really the antithesis of the mall. The inspiration and vision was of a Toy Shop from 18^th century London where toys are primarily not a passing fad but treasured playthings to be passed down.

We opened our doors in 2001 to a very welcoming community that has stayed loyal all these years.

What should Vancouver moms expect from The Village Toy Shop?

With lots of nooks and crannies and product right up to our high ceilings, there is a vast selection for such a small space to cover any gift requirements. Hundreds of titles of games and puzzles for kids and adults mostly from Europe. Brain teasers, Books, “The Fun Wall”, silly, novelty under $5, tricks and jokes, and loot bag stuffers. Puppets, Plush, Dolls, Arts and Crafts, Infant, Eco-Friendly, Wood and Bamboo, Playmobil, Trains, Science, Music, Tween, Lego, Bath Tub, Calico Critters, and Dress Up.

What makes The Village Toy Shop unique?

One of the distinctions of The Village Toy Shop is our expert Toyologists dressed in white lab coats ready to prescribe just the right toy. From newborn to adults, we focus on play value. Our philosophy is to find products that have fabulous return on investment – we call this “pennies per playtime”. Unlike the big box stores, we aren’t concerned about licensed characters, electronic doo-hickeys, or TV advertising that don’t add to the play-ability of the toy. Toys that teach must also be fun.

What do you love about what you do?

One of my favourite parts of this business is seeing the kids grow up that we have been providing the highest quality toys to for the last decade. The idea that we contribute to a child’s development, growth, imagination, and happiness is why we are here. Special events like the Teddy Bear Picnic, visits from mascots, store parties are the icing on the cake and make all the work more joyful. Through our gift wrapping service we raise thousands for children’s charities such as BC Children’s Hospital and Juvenile Diabetes Research.

Advice from moms in the store is another perk of working in such a warm atmosphere where we have the time to develop relationships with our customers.

What do you do in your family time?

Still learning how to balance and juggle work and family. My personal time is shared with my family a supportive husband and two active boys, ages three and four.  As a family, we spend our time out in the community at pools, parks and Festivals. I love running into our customers at all of these places. It is such a warm feeling to be out and about and have people come and say hi. In personal time, I can be found reading parenting and child development books, or children’s books (including Harry Potter of course). Dress-up, forts, pretending, music, books, art, and puppets are just some of our favourite things to play. Our two tiny “Toyologists in the making” are fabulous toy testers, as are all the reviews we receive from our customers.

Anything else to add?

On the last Friday of every month, I do an interview on Global noon news on different themes. The archives of some of these interviews can be found on our web site. One of the wonderful aspects of this has not only been that people from across the Lower Mainland travel great distances to come and experience our store but that we can refer people to other neighbourhood toy stores across BC that they may not know exist. We call it sharing the love.

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A few years ago, during the first week of her second maternity leave, Bevin knew that she didn’t want to return to her senior management job in an accounting department at a large rental company in the UK. Like  many moms, Bevin was looking for work life balance. “One overseas move, another baby, a few rescue pets and a lot of hard work later, Kippo Kids was born.”

The idea for Kippo Kids was inspired by Bevin’s desire to launch something online and take part in the social media trends. “As a busy mom of three, using the Internet  became a more convenient way of shopping for my children.” says Bevin, who soon became tired of finding the perfect product from the United States and playing a guessing game of what duties, shipping and other hidden fees would cost. “I wanted more great online shopping options for Canadians and to find and offer products from around the globe as well as from right here at home.”

Kippo Kids focuses on the everyday moments in a child’s life and strives to make every part of a joy, an experience to share with family and friends, and a learning opportunity. From crafts and paints to grow young imaginations, to organic body wash to help your child settle into bed, to bedding and handmade plush toys to snuggle up to at the end of the day, each item is meant to bring a something special to a child’s everyday.

Every product needs to pass Bevin’s quality standards – and be something that she loves. “When I select products to sell on Kippo Kids I ask myself is the product educational, comforting, of a high quality, eco-friendly, fun, and do I love it?” says Bevin. “If it’s  yes, that’s good enough for me and good enough for Kippo Kids.” With a goal to combine superior customer service with quality products, Bevin hopes that the products purchased through her store will end up as hand-me-downs lovingly passed on – which is why quality is so important to her. “Personal attention to detail is what we’re all about.”

But selling quality products that will last is just one part of Kippo Kids’ eco-philosophy to keep its carbon footprint small. Kippo Kids reuses packaging materials, recycles whenever possible, and dispose of  responsibly what it can’t. “We will continue to make environmentally responsible choices and to seek out eco-chic products.”

Kippo Kids is also in the process of developing a fundraising program called “Kippo Cares”. Each month, Kippo Kids will feature a special product and donate a portion of the proceeds to a chosen children’s charity.

Says Bevin: “Our children are our best natural resource who need sustaining just as much as any part of the environment.”

Kippo Kids

www.kippokids.com | Twitter: @KippoKids | Facebook

VancouverMom.ca readers receive 10% off your order at KippoKids. Just use promotional code: VANMOM10.

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1. Plan Green Dollhouse (with Furniture)

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Really popular with an environmentally friendly look.”

I personally have been oohing and ahhhing for a Plan dollhouse for a few years now (it happens to be under the tree for my daughters this year). I love the modern aesthetic of these dollhouses, as well as Plan’s eco-vision in everything the make. This Plan Green Dollhouse features a wind turbine and solar cell panel with electrical inverter for generating electricity, as well as little touches like a rain barrel and shade canopy, for the little environmentalist in your family.

2. Corolle Dolls Lia Interactive Doll

Granville Island Toy Company says: “All of Corolle’s dolls are fantastic and really well-made.”

Corolle is my brand of choice for traditional dolls for my girls. I love this collection of dolls from France. My youngest daughter has had her beloved “baby” since she was about a year old and has carried its plush squishy goodness around with her everywhere since she received it. Joanne recommended Corolle Dolls’ Lia Interactive, a doll that not only speaks four languages, but also responds when your child interacts with it. Lia will laugh when you tickle her feet and cry when she’s hungry. Comes with eight accessories: a bib, plate, bottle, spoon, potty and three bracelets to allow you to change the language.

3. Calico Critters Cozy Cottage

Granville Island Toy Company says: “A sweet dollhouse that any little girl would love.”

Measuring 12” x 10.75” x 8”, this adorable house comes with an amazing amount of furniture and accessories, including Bell Hopscotch Rabbit, bed with matching sheets, table with chairs, kitchen counter with sink and oven, along with moveable stairs, cookware and food! Terrific for children ages 3+.

4. ThinkFun Hoppers Junior

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Teaches the kids problem-solving.”

ThinkFun’s series of games are terrific for kids. In ThinkFun’s Hoppers Junior, a single player helps Red Frog Freddy win the leaping contest by being the last one on the pond. Players choose a challenge and place the frogs on the playing board to match the picture shown. To win, players hop all of their frogs around the pond until only the Red Frog remains. Ranging from Easy to Super Hard, this game will keep any five- to seven-year-old busy.

5. Kids of Carcassonne

Any person that plays the adult version of this game knows just how addictive Carcassonne can be. In Kids of Carcassonne, sheep, chicken and cows have been set free in the town of Carcassonne and children have to catch the animals before dusk. Two or four players can play (although the game is ideal with four). Appropriate for children aged four and up.

6. Bloco Horses and Unicorns Set

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Made in Canada.”

Bloco has some amazing 3D building kits. This set allows for the simultaneoius creation of three models: a horse, a unicorn and a filly. Accessories like a saddle, blanket, mane and bridle are included. The filly can also be mounted on cradles to create a rocking horse. Or kids can use their imagination and build whatever suits their fancy.

7. Teaching Cash Register

Granville Island Toy Company says: “The absolute best play value. Works with Canadian money – fake or real.”

Joanna couldn’t say enough about the Teaching Cash Register. One of her customers even joked that his kids could use the cash register to figure out how much money they raided out of his spare change. The Teaching Cash Register talks, lights up and makes other rewarding sounds. Games help kids practice basic math skills such as addition and subtraction. Comes with Canadian money and also works with really Canadian currency!

8. Little Tikes 8×8 Bouncer

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Easy to pack.”

I couldn’t believe that you could have your very own bouncy castle for your backyard. This inflatable bouncer is built with durability in mind – a double-stitched entrance and made with puncture-resistant material and a durable mesh netting. Includes stakes to anchor the bouncer firmly to the ground and a heavy-duty blower. For ages 3 to 10 years.

9. Crazy Forts by Crazy Forts

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Stable. Kids can easily make their own tents.”

I’ve been eyeing Crazy Forts for some time. If your kids are struggling to make their indoor forts with blankets and furniture, use this fort system instead. Children can connect the balls and sticks to make a structure and then cover it with bedsheets – solving that dilemma of not having enough chairs or tables to create a substantial fort.

10. Melissa and Doug Shopping Cart

I don’t know what it is, but kids love shopping carts. Made with durable metal, Melissa and Doug’s Shopping Cart looks just like one from a real grocery store. Complete with pivoting front wheels, a folding doll seat, and protective corner bumpers.

11. Spatulatta Cookbook

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Recipes are easy to make yet impressive. Nice introduction to cooking.”

The other day, I noticed that my foodie sister had this cookbook on her shelf for her kids. Based on the concept of kids teaching kids, tween-aged sisters Belle and Liv whip up adventurous yet kid-friendly recipes like Berry Dip and Roll and Yumbo Gumbo. All the recipes include full-colour photos, easy instructions and playful commentary. Spiral binding allows the book to lie flat and its high-gloss pages mean that the book is stain and spill resistant. Perfect for kids ages 9 to 12. Also check out their award winning web site at www.spatulatta.com.

12. Project Runway Fashion Design Projector Kit

For the budding fashion designer, kids can create any look by using slides to project a pattern and tracing fashion combinations that they can embellish on their own.

13. Fashion Angels Hair Stylist

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Kids learn to make real – and complicated – hair styles.”

I don’t know about you, but I’m horrible at doing my kids’ hair. I don’t really know how to get the perfect French braid and am not all that creative with the ponytails and barrettes – so this guide would surely help. This hair style guide gives your child step-by-step instructions for over 50 styles for her own hair – or using the wig that’s provided. Includes wig, hair extensions, 6 hair clips and hair colour streaking set and guide.

14. Playmais

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Made from corn, Playmais is safe, has multiple uses and can be enjoyed by kids of any age.”

Joanna loves Playmais so much she gave me a box to bring home and try with the kids. I just happened to be heading to my sister’s and between the two of us, we have two two-year-olds, a four- and five-year-old and a nine-year-old. All of them were kept busy for well over 30-minutes and proudly boasted their creations when they were done. Made of corn and water and dyed with natural and food colours, Playmais does not contain toxic ingredients and is safe to play with (although the manufacturers don’t recommend eating it!).

15. Schylling My Secret’s Safe

When I was a kid, I had a miniature Canada Post replica mailbox where I could keep letters and other valuables locked safely inside – and loved it. With My Secret’s Safe, kids can guard their special keepsakes in this steel safe complete with combination lock and alarm. Hot pink with contemporary flower graphics. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

16. GoGo’s Crazy Bones Packs

Granville Island Toy Company says: “These surprise packages are the next big thing.”

Joanna’s staff insisted that she carry GoGo’s Crazy Bones – small one-inch high plastic figures that children can play games with. Each pack contains three Crazy Bones and three stickers, each randomly selected. With 80 different types and stickers in each bag, Gogo’s Crazy Bones are sure to be the hot thing that every little kid is collecting.

17. Wikki Stix

Wikki Stix are made of wax, bend like pipe cleaners but stick to surfaces so you can make pictures. Kids can bend, twist, cut and stick the sticks together to make jewellery or 3D creatures. While the kit comes with a playboard, Wiki Stix can stick to almost any surface like paper or the fridge to make pictures. No preparation required. Clean-up is just an easy wipe with a dry cloth or paper towel.

18. Slingshot Flying Monkey With Scream Sound

Granville Island Toy Company says: “We could not stock enough of these last year.”

I gave the Slingshot Flying Monkey away in place of goodie bags at the start of my daughter’s birthday party and they kept the older kids occupied for hours. Fling the monkey long distances using its elastic arms. Dressed in a cape and mask like a super hero, the monkey will let out two loud monkey calls whenever you shoot him. Warning! This toy has a high adult-annoyance factor (note the “with scream sound” in the title), but the kids (and adults at your office) will toss these monkeys with delight. Appropriate for older kids (five and up) who have the hand dexterity to place their fingers in the pockets and fling the monkey.

19. Elf on the Shelf

Granville Island Toy Company says: “Perfect for any child that believes in Santa.”

In this book, Santa reveals his biggest secret – just how Santa knows who’s been naughty and who’s been nice. Each book comes with a scout elf, which the children name, register in the North Pole’s Hall of Registry at elfontheshelf.com, and print their official elf adoption certificate.

20. The Cat in The Hat Game

Granville Island Toy Company says: “An award-winning game that gets kids moving.”

This award-winning game combines balancing, jumping, sliding, giggling and more. Can you limbo under the trick-a-mas-stick will balancing the fish on your stomach? Hundreds of possibilities that encourage reading, physical activity and memory skills.

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1. Gourmet Chef’s Kitchen by Educo, Ages: 3+, Price: $139.99

Terrific alternative to the typical huge plastic version, this kitchen features a oven window so young chefs can peek through and pretend that a cake is baking. A hutch and cupboard (which can also be imagined as a fridge) is perfect for storing dinnerware, pots and pans – great for easy clean up. Peek into the oven through the window to check on dinner or the pretend cake that’s baking. Big orange knobs can turn the burners “on” or “off” and the sink is ready for washing dishes.

What Jack and Lola says: “This is the perfect toy for little chefs who want to practice their culinary skills. We love the attention to detail here, including the slots for hanging wooden knives and a window that offers a clear peek into the oven.”

2. Switchback Racetrack by Educo, Ages: 18m+, Price: $79.99

If your kid has a need for speed, the Educo Switchback Racetrack Toy is perfect for driving the day away! Colourful design and checkered flag graphics, allowing one or two cars to go racing to the finish line. Includes four wooden vehicles with a colourful spiral spinning graphic on the wheels.

What Jack and Lola says: “Compete with friends to see who can get a racecar down the wooden ramp first. Or you can race by yourself. Designed for small hands, the racetrack is easy for a toddler or preschooler to use without needing parental support, though we often find adults racing cars without a child in sight.”

3. Welcome Home Dollhouse by Educo, Ages: 3+, Price: $134.99

Dollhouses aren’t the same from when you were a kid! A modern and sleek design, Educo’s Welcome Home Dollhouse comes complete with furniture and a miniature family. This two-story wood house features a traditional design with an open floor plan, with a balcony on one side. Trim colours are popular with both boys and girls. Furniture and appliances have incredible detail with doors that open and close.

What Jack and Lola says: “Just move in! A fantastic wooden two-story, open-floor plan allows for hours of imaginative play as children push furniture and dolls around the space. Furniture quality and imaginative details, such as the hanging towel in the bathroom, make this house a favourite with our staff and young customers.”

4. Automoblox Mini’s 3 pack, Ages: 3+, Price: $37.99

A scaled-down version of the traditional Automoblox car, the Automoblox Mini’s 3-pack features “future-retro” styling, fits in the palm of your hand and has a universal connector system that enables a quick interchange of parts – allowing for multiple combinations and styles.

What Jack and Lola says: “The number one toy line from last year remains at the top of our list for its ability to keep children’s hands and minds engaged. We love the new mini 3 pack because it offers all the options of the original line but in an easily portable size for use in restaurants, aboard planes or in the backseat of the car. Children can design their own vehicle from the components of different cars with no need for an additional purchase.”

5. Zany World Love and Respect Board Game, Ages: 5+ (but also younger kids with help), Price $29.99

West Vancouver-based Zany World Games won the prestigious 2009 Game of the Year Award from Child Play Magazine. Kids can act and share their emotions and feelings about love and respect.

What Jack and Lola says: “A game that teaches love and respect while encouraging friends or family members to share dreams and feelings. Listed for 5+, this game could easily be played with younger children if they get teamed with older players.”

6. Quadrilla Melody Set Basic by Hape, Ages: 4+, Price: $79.99

Just head over to YouTube and check out some of the awesome creations people have made with this toy. Children can build, play and learn simple mechanics at the same time. The Quadrilla Melody Set Basic also features musical tones.

What Jack and Lola says: “The Quadrilla marble run in our toy section is often the first and only destination of our young customers. Children are fascinated to predict the route their marble will take. Now these little engineers can also become symphony conductors with the addition of musical tones to the run.”

7. Truffle Wooly Mammoth by JellyCat, Ages: 0+, Price: $79.99

Cuddly, cue and measuring 30 inches, each Truffles can sit upright or be folded out into a pillow or mat.

What Jack and Lola says: “The heart-melting qualities of this loveable Wooly Mammoth from England’s JellyCat would put an end to any ice age. He and his many friends are often found accepting cuddles from staff and customers of all ages.”

8. First Doll by Dandelion, Ages: 0+, Price: $15.99

Perfect first doll for any baby girl, the First Doll by Dandelion is lightly stuffed for the smallest child to hug and carry, with ponytails for tugging and teething. A portion of the proceeds of this item go to breast cancer research.

What Jack and Lola says: “Although Baby’s First Doll is designed for our tiniest customers, we think it deserves to be on our big kid’s list too! A perfect size for nighttime cuddles at only eight inches tall, she could easily be happy snuggled up in a big girl bed.”

9. Nuchi Figure 8 Train Set $46.99

Open ended and endlessly expandable, the Nuchi Figure 8 Train Set is a wooden railway made of European beechwood and finished with safe, durable paint. An excellent introduction that’s a perfect first train, the set includes 15 tracks, train with engine, 2 container cars and 1 oil tanker with removable loads, 2 trees, and a working tower crane with magnet. Also compatible with Brio, Thomas the Tank Engine, and other wooden railway systems.

What Jack and Lola says: “Your child will enjoy many hours with this simple, yet highly engaging, wooden train set. A working Tower Crane with magnets to load and unload freight makes this set a great one for any new train enthusiast.”

10. Frog and Prince Puppet by Folkmanis, Ages: 4+, Price: $48.99

Two puppets in one! One one side, a frog prince that on the other side transforms into a prince when flipped inside out. Perfect for storytelling or as two stand-alone puppets.

What Jack and Lola says: “What happens when you kiss the frog? Does he turn into a prince? Well, the rest of the story can be up to you and your child. The Folkmanis dual-puppet design allows the frog to be flipped inside out to become a prince. Children can retell this classic tale or create their own.”

11. Wishbone Runner Bike, Ages: 1+, Price: $299.99

This pedal free balance bike (also called “run bike”) is three bikes in one! Even the earliest walkers are ready for phase one of the Wishbone Bike, which first acts like a three-wheel trike. As the child gains confidence, you can remove a wheel to transform the bike into a balance bike. As your child grows, you can flip the frame for added height. Made from 60 percent post-consumer recycled plastic wheels and sustainably managed woods.

What Jack and Lola says: It’s a tricycle! No, it’s a pedal-less runner bike! No, it’s a large size runner bike! Actually, It’s all three. Our staff knows that parents are thrilled by any product that grows with their child and Wishbone three-in-one runner bikes do exactly that.

12. Tyke Light Jr. by Mobi, Ages: 2+, Price: $15.99

The TykeLight Jr. is the perfect nightlight for kids who need a little company at bedtie. Smooth, durable and easy to clean, this light can help your child as they fall asleep, as well as be something to reach for in the middle of the night.

What Jack and Lola says: “The Tyke Light is a perfect stocking stuffer for any little girl or boy who likes to sleep with the light on. We at jack and lola have tested this on many of our own children and are particularly impressed by the time option that turns the light off automatically after 15 minutes. That’s just about the right time for your little one to drift off to sleep.”

13. P’kolino Easel 3+$119.99

A traditional easel, chalkboard, whiteboard or puppet theater, this easel holds rolls up to 18″ and sheets of all sizes. Includes two “colouring book” scenes to use as backdrops during puppet theatre mode. Folds flat for easy storage.

What Jack and Lola says: “This is an easel any parent would be happy to have in the living room. Stylish and well-designed, it can be set up four different ways — as a chalkboard/wipe board, traditional easel, or puppet theatre – and still fold flat for easy storage. Not that you would want to put it away.”

14. Feel Better Frog by Manhattan Toy, Ages: 3+, Price: $44.99

An interactive electronic plush frog that says things like “Tissue please!” when hugged, or sneezes when a tissue is held near its mouth. Fourteen phrases in all. Includes batteries.

What Jack and Lola says: “Your child can help nurse Froggy back to health with a little hug, some warm soup and a tissue. We’re impressed that this little frog not only interacts with your child but also can be held and cuddled like any other stuffed animal.”

15. Droidimals Hand Puppet by Manhattan Toy, Ages 3+, Price: $22.99

Huge and playfully ugly super fuzzy puppet with lots of cool fabric details.

What Jack and Lola says: “So eager are children to play with these crazy but completely loveable puppets, we find we often have to cut the price tags off while they’re still in their new owners’ hands. Easy to operate, with only a movable mouth, these droids are perfect for small fingers and big imaginations.”

16. Trike ‘n’ Trailer by ELC, Ages: 1+, Price: $94.99

A sturdy and stable wooden trike that can be used both indoors and out. The trailer is perfect for loading up toys.

What Jack and Lola says: “Who needs Santa’s sleigh when you have your own Trike ‘n’ Trailer to stuff with goodies! This toy is a jack & lola favourite because it works on a toddler’s gross and fine motor skills. It also can be used both inside and outside.”

17. My Royal Castle by Educo 3+$149.99

This awesome 26-piece wood castle set includes three nights, a horse, catapult, rope ladders and its own king and queen. Terrific detailing like a working drawbridge, both boys and girls will be busy for hours in imaginative play.

What Jack and Lola says: “Hear Ye, Hear Ye, jack & lola has declared the Royal Castle a winner and placed it on our top 20 list! Your knight or princess will be thrilled by all the detail found in this 26-piece wood castle set, including a rope ladder, catapult and working draw bridge. Hours of imaginative and co-operative role-play await.”

18. Believe Organic Small Polar Bear 0+ $29.99

Touchable and teethable and great for any age. Machine washable.

What Jack and Lola says: “At jack & lola, our motto is “growing children, naturally” so the Believe Organic line of stuffed animals had to be on our top 20 list. This darling Polar Bear and his buddies are made from organic terry cloth and canvas and stuffed with natural corn fiber filling.”

19. Bobs & Lolo Action Packed CD 0+ $18.00

With 12 original songs, Bobs and Lolo’s album Action Packed is dedicated to keeping kids fit and healthy using kid-friendly analogies like trains and superheros. W

What Jack and Lola says: “Tired of telling your kids to eat their veggies? Simply put the song “Snappy Snacks” on in the car and your children will be begging for healthy treats to eat. Winner of the 2009 Parent’s Choice Gold Award, Bobs & Lola’s latest release, “Action Packed,” is filled with upbeat songs about friendship, fun, and healthy living.”

20. E-Racer by Hape 2+ $19.99

Eco-friendly with a sporty design evocative of both yesterday and tomorrow, the E-Racer features bamboo and water-based paint.

What Jack and Lola says: “Finally, a completely eco-friendly car! Too bad it is only seven inches long. Made from bamboo and brightly coloured with water-based paints, it will make you feel secure in the knowledge that your child is playing with a toy that is safe for them and is also good for the environment.”

Remember to take advantage of Jack and Lola’s special offer to VancouverMom.ca readers a discount of 15% (some restrictions apply – see in store for details)! Just mention that you’ve heard about the offer at the time of purchase.

Jack and Lola

125 W 1st St., North Vancouver, BC | 778-340-JACK (5225)

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How it works: you simply make a donation in someone’s name to a charity of your choice, and the recipient gets a notification – perhaps a colourful card spelling out the donation details, or a small tree to plant in the yard. You don’t need to make a whopping donation to make it meaningful, and a charity gift doesn’t have to replace every last toy on your child’s wish list. Here are a few tips to make giving the gift of charity easy:

Make It Fun

Find a charity that your children can be passionate about. A typed letter thanking you for buying 1.8 acres of rainforest may not make sense to a small child. However, their very own sea otter or silver fox will make for a unique gift kids can get excited about. Many animal charities have “Adopt an Animal” programs. When you make a donation, your child “adopts” an animal, meaning they’ll receive interesting updates, photos and information on the critter you’ve chosen.

Make It Relevant

Donating to a children’s charity is the perfect way to help your child learn more about kids halfway around the world. Choose a charity that provides medical care or education to children, or adopt a third-world foster child so your child can exchange greetings and photos with them throughout the year.

Make it Work for You

If you haven’t warmed to the idea of giving a donation to charity instead of a brightly-wrapped gift your child can tear into, why not choose a present that donates a portion of the proceeds to charity instead? Pick a charitable gift for your child that relates to their hobbies or interests, like the Rachael Ray muffin tin for your little baker. A portion of the proceeds go to her charity Yum-o!, which teaches families to cook, feeds hungry kids and promotes cooking education and scholarships.

Or Opt For a Fair Trade Toy

Fair trade has become a bit of a buzz word in the past few years, especially among imported items like coffee and clothing. When you buy fair trade items, third-world producers are paid a fair wage for their items, helping them build a sustainable business and make a decent living. You can find beautiful educational fair trade toys for kids from various countries around the world, from Zimbabwe dolls to Peruvian animal finger puppets. Check out these fair-trade kids toys at Ten Thousand Villages.

Before you whip out your credit card to buy a charity gift online, look into the organization. While most charities are legitimate, unfortunately there are scams out there, and even more so around the holidays. Find important information on charities through the Better Business Bureau, or search recommended charities at Charity Intelligence to find out how much of your donation actually goes to charity projects compared to administration or corporate salaries.

Erin Stringer has been a freelance writer for over 10 years, and her work has appeared in various online and offline publications. She enjoys writing about all that Vancouver has to offer. Erin is a VancouverMom.ca contributor. Have some great article ideas? Find out how you can become a contributor.

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