For The Kids

By Maryanne Murray Buechner

Lounging Around

Just say no to teddy-bear and balloon prints. The mercifully subtle Oeuf Baby Lounger, $110 at babygeared.com is listed under Activity Apparatus (see Bouncers).

Look, Ma, No Pedals

The LikeABike, a German import, prepares kids ages 2 to 5 for the real thing by teaching them first how to balance on two wheels; $279 at likeabikeusa.com

Transformed

The original etoys.com is long gone, but that address still takes you to a sensible place to shop for, say, Hasbro's $45 Omega Supreme, a robot you can turn into a crane or battleship.

Top Kicks

Zappos.com will make you rethink shoe shopping online. The site's massive inventory covers the whole family and shipping is free--even for returns. These Easy Riders by Puma Kids are $45.

Fork, Knife, Spoon

Most of these utensils, which gingerandscallion.com imports from Japan, come as part of a set: Ocean, Sea or Petit Marine ($20-$22). A stainless-steel turtle spoon ($5) is sold separately.

Pampered Set

Save that new mom from the hideous diaper bag she brought home from the hospital with reeseli.com's inspired totes ($100-$120) and burp cloths ($24 for a set of two).

Cheeky Monkey

If what you're after is a gift that lasts, try magiccabin.com for "heirloom quality" dolls, toys and crafts, like this Crochet Critter, $25, or an adorable red polka-dot cat, $30.

Flame Boy

Is your kid begging for a skateboard? Monsterskate.com has it all, like this complete set from World Industries ($72). Warning: when shopping at this site, it helps to have a brand in mind.

Revolutionary

Does a $25 onesie seem a little steep? Not with Che Guevara's face printed on the front. Find this and other gems at lalaling.com (click eShop, Hot Fashion, New Arrivals). For more Che, visit thechestore.com

Balancing Act

With a foot at each end, you can maneuver the balls across this Seesaw Balance Board--$85 at zebrahall.com--by shifting your weight. Our 4-year-old tester is hooked.