Make the little one in your life feel like a spoiled child star with these latest and coolest in playthings, strollers, car seats, backpacks, clothing and accessories designed with both fun and fashion in mind.
Crusin' the Strip
Convertible Stroller
Built for luxury, the Mutsy 4Rider Light stroller is a ride to envy. The beauty of the Mutsy is not only in its high quality and stylish design but its versatility. With separately purchased components it can convert from bassinet to Babysitter rocker to Fun Seat in which toddlers can pretend to steer and ride along. There's also a shopping basket for mom, and the system is compatible with a variety of car seats. 5. Birth to 55 lbs., 42.7 height. Available at Babies R Us.
Sittin' Pretty, and Safe
The Sunshine Kids Radian 80 Convertible Car Seat grows with your child, with safety features galore, including 5-point harness, side impact protection and adjustable cushions for bigger kids. Thanks to its steel frame and narrow seat, you can place three across in a car, and it folds flat when not in use. To insure you get all the safety benefits, use a professional safety seat technician, such as Infant Toddler Youth, itysafety.com, to demonstrate the seat's features and instruct you on future adjustments. 9.98, 5 to 80 pounds. Available at Target.
Bring it On
Cart your stuff in style with the Reisenthel Carrybag (.99), a modern twist on the old wicker picnic basket, constructed of heavy-duty tear-proof polyester, with a collapsible soft rubber handle and a zip pocket inside. For the little Farmer's Market shopper in your life, the carrybag comes in XS size (.99), with all the features of the full size plus a draw-string cover flap to keep contents inside. Available at Sur la Table and The Container Store.
Nice Wheels
Reminiscent of the derby cars kids used to whittle in Boy Scouts, but a whole lot more streamlined, Automobox wood cars are toys to pass down through the generations. The snap-on parts keep little mechanical minds busy while the styling and function make them a pleasure to look at and play with, from SUV and sedan models to sports cars like the sleek convertible A9-S. .00, ages 3 and up. Available at Automoblox.com.
From Here to There
Forget the hulking backpack carriers that look like you are heading out for a tour across Europe. For a quick trip to the shopping mall, walk around the block, the comfy Kokopax Classic Carrier is all you need for everyday use. With fashionable designs on 100% cotton canvas, it looks great; and with its adjustable light-weight aluminum frame and shoulder straps and padded waist support, it feels great too. Includes a handy storage pocket, toy ring and eco-friendly carry bag. 9.99, up to 35 pounds. Tiny World and Nomi Boutique.
Lil' Buckaroos
Rowdy ranchers in training will be ready to ride in Ariat's Quick Draw Kids Cowboy Boots in full-grain leather with a four-row stitch pattern for rugged style and a comfy Ariat Booster Bed for comfort. .95, Sizes: Child: 8-13.5, Youth: 1-5. Locate retailers at ariat.com.
Steppin' Out
For little feet that prefer to go bare, the Pediped Flex line is the next best thing. Made with flexible rubber soles for comfort and a system that adjusts as the child grows to prolong the length of wear. Available in sizes 6-12 for boys and girls in 45 adorable styles, including the ultra-cool Jayden (.00). Nordstrom, Fred Segal and Right Start.
Keeping up with the Kids Next Door
The must-have push-around buggy for every kid on the block is now available in a quieter version, the Step 2 Whisper Ride Buggy with Silent Ride Tires. Also comes with a mounted cup holder and battery-powered horn. For kids up to 50 lbs. .99. Available at Babies R Us.