Of course, we recognize the substantial difference between children and pets, but there’s something undeniably wondrous about items developed for youthful humans, canines, felines and more. Whimsy and imagination often teach or train. Function exists beneath or because of layers of beauty. Toys, tools, articles of distraction and instruments of creation all represent a part of the design world defined by access. Whether you’re shopping for a toddler, a chameleon or both, there’s plenty of carefully considered options here.
Laura K Zimmermann’s magical children’s book Mushroom Rain glows with dazzling fungi illustrations by Jamie Green. The fascinating, informative work includes insight on the mysterious power of mushrooms, from helping to create rain to smelling like bubblegum. With lyrical descriptions as well as additional facts and activities in the back matter, the book is an enchanting and educational tour of ecology.
The Winding Road is a platform founded by Marla Showfer, who traverses the globe to partner with and present small fair trade artisans. For the Magic Mushroom Playhouse, Showfer worked with a family-owned workshop in Kathmandu, Nepal to create a pastoral felt world, replete with a mushroom-shaped cottage and mouse finger puppet. With a design evoking fairytale art, the playhouse inspires whimsy and imagination.
Jan Andreu had been a fan of Laia Aguilar’s work at Bobo Choses, and was thrilled when the two collaborated on The Animal Observatory—a children’s apparel brand centered on play and curiosity. Their yellow bucket hat features a minimalist flower print and pink interior and evokes cheerful and bright days under the sun. Floral and endearing, the 100% cotton hat is available in sizes medium …
Lalo makes some of our favorite furniture and accessories for kids and babies. The brand just teamed up with West Elm on a small collection that sends 50% of proceeds to No Kid Hungry—an organization dedicated to ending childhood hunger in the US. The Chair is both a high chair and a play chair that’s sleek and stylish thanks to its acorn finish. There are …
Featured in writer-director Mike Mills’ endearing cinematic masterpiece C’mon C’mon, the out-of-print children’s book Star Child returns to shelves thanks to independent media organization A24 (who also distributed the film). Written and illustrated by Claire A Nivola, the moving, masterful tale about a star who moves to Earth to experience life as a boy comes with imaginative full-color artwork. This foil-stamped, die-cut slipcase edition can …
When it comes to bikes for kids, woom’s purpose-built designs set an impressive standard. The new NOW model for ages six to 14 features a smaller front wheel combined with an innovative, lightweight frame that lowers the front rack’s center of gravity for easier maneuverability. Plus, the eight-speed bike’s integrated front and rear lights, wide handlebars and tires, double fenders and child-sized grips add comfort.
Safe, functional and adorably designed, the coral-hued Heart Swim Vest for kids features an adjustable safety strap, a front zip and velcro tab for additional security. Its durable neoprene improves buoyancy and warmth. Not only practical, the vest features a polka-dot design and a 3D heart on the back. Available in sizes small, medium and large, this vest is intended for kids aged from one to …
Blok’s innovative debut collection includes six colorful analog timepieces designed for children with quality, durability, practicality and fun in mind. These water-resistant quartz watches feature a Swiss-made movement and incorporate a functional clicking bezel that’s divided into blocks of time, ranging from five to 30 minutes, to help kids learn about time management. The design-forward brand utilizes sustainable components throughout: a biopolymer derived from the …
Stockholm-based Stutterheim is adored the world over for their effective rain gear and its connection to Swedish weather and Sweden’s natural surroundings. One raincoat from the brand, the Lightweight Dog Raincoat, might be intended for canines but it boasts the same protection as Stutterheim’s garments for people. This bright yellow colorway (exclusive to SSENSE) also means your dog will be more easily seen in low light …
Made from 100% recycled fabrics and materials, Dog Ear’s pet toys are each entirely unique and crafted by hand. Founded by Lu Williams and Emma Edmondson during the beginning of the pandemic, the brand aims to not only encourage dog owners to enjoy being outside with their pooches, but also to combine “contemporary art publishing and sculptural dog toys.” Available in three sizes, every ball …
Asha teamed up with Sanrio to add some extra joy to their products, care of Hello Kitty. Inside the playful packaging are the same vegan noodles and flavor, which have 25% less sodium than many other cup noodles. Price is for a pack of six.
Faith Ringgold’s 1996 work “The Sunflower Quilting Bee at Arles” depicts eight iconic Black American women (Madam CJ Walker, Sojourner Truth, Ida Wells, Fannie Lou Hamer, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Mary McLeod Bethune and Ella Baker) as well as Vincent van Gogh and a fictional character named Willia Marie Simone (a frequent heroine of Ringgold’s quilt works, and perhaps her alter-ego). This piece honors and …
