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In This Issue |
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TREND REPORT: KIDS ARE BIGGER THAN EVER Judging by the proliferation of new business launches, the youth market continues its growth trend. Products, publications and websites are targeting hip, sophisticated parents who are willing to spend big-time on their progeny. From designer diaper bags to high performance (and high ticket) strollers, taking care of baby knows almost no bounds. Likewise, playthings are more sophisticated, and so are the children. A home filled with tech toys means the kids are as plugged in as Mommy and Daddy. In fact, they’ve surpassed their parents in terms of tech savvy. As a group, they’re also very eco-sensitive, aware of today’s pressing environmental issues and wanting to help. After all, they will inherit the earth. Still, kids will be kids. Sometimes girls, and boys, just want to have fun. These great products will see to that. |
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| RETAIL SCOOP: AN OUTTA THE (TOY) BOX EXPERIENCE Kids and parents alike adore Geppetto’s Toy Box, a cozy neighborhood store in Greenwich Village. Specializing in handmade toys and collectables, it offers a great selection of alternatives to the usual licensed lines and mega-brands. Mobiles dangle over aisles filled with playtime classics that range from Colorforms, Steif plush animals, and dolls by Madame Alexander and Corolle, to modern favorites like Wild Planet spy gadgets and Groovy Girls. Lots of crafts kits and large-format books, too. A friendly staff offers helpful suggestions. Consistently a critic’s pick, Geppetto’s is “everything a children’s store should be." Geppetto's Toy Box, 10 Christopher St. (just west of 6th Ave.) (212) 620-7511. |
Sweet Tooth
If Dylan Lauren (yes, daughter of Ralph) was married to Willy Wonka, she could not have created a better candy emporium than Dylan’s Candy Bar. You’ll feel like Alice in Wonderland as you wander through giant displays of oversized chocolate animals, all-day suckers, and other technicolor sugary extravaganzas. Getting dizzy from the vast selection of treats? Then sit on one of the peppermint lollipop stools at the candy bar. You’ll love the design approach (sort of sugar high run amok) as much as the huge selection of jelly beans, gummy bears, old-fashioned “penny” favorites and more. Make an appointment with your dentist and go to Dylan’s Candy Bar at 1011 Third Avenue.
Mini-Michelangelos
What a great way to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the iconic NYC yellow cab! The City’s Taxi & Limousine Commission is teaming up with Portraits of Hope, a non profit organization that encourages disadvantaged children to participate in civic beautification art projects. On view is an exhibition — traveling on most of the City's 13,000 taxis — of 35,000+ vibrant floral panels painted by thousands of children and adult volunteers! To learn more, and get a preview of some the brightly painted visuals, visit www.gardenintransit.com.
Animal House
It’s a classic that never gets old: the charming Tisch Children’s Zoo in Central Park. Children love the activities – from the famous petting zoo to games and special performances – and adults love watching the kids interact. If you want to see children (and, oh yes, animals) in their natural habitat, you can’t do better than this. Tisch Children’s Zoo in Central Park, East Side between 63rd and 66th Streets.
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The New York International Gift Fair is owned and managed by George Little Management, LLC (GLM)
Register to attend, or apply to exhibit, at www.nyigf.com.