Stylish and practical gift ideas for kids, as well as immersive books ideal for summer fun
As we look forward to the summer and the adventures it will bring (hopefully as restrictions continue to ease!), we’re thinking about items for kids that will make the longer days even better. Whether your own little ones need wardrobe updates as we head into the warmer season, or you’re looking for a precious gift, we’ve rounded up some lovely items available now.
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Timeless summer pieces
Having struggled to find simple and classic clothing for their children, close friends Caroline and Denise founded Little Larks, a children’s wear brand with an affinity for timeless style. Each piece is designed in Dublin and produced with high quality fabrics that are meant to be passed on and worn by more than one child. Inspired by the fresh and simple styles they so often saw children wearing whilst holidaying on the continent, the collections include traditional smocked dresses and tailored boys shorts suited to everyday wear and special occasions. For more, see littlelarksclothing.com.
Splish, splash
While the temperatures may soar, we can still expect a typical Irish summer and for those rainy days, don’t let the weather stop you from getting outdoors. As the saying goes: ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes’. Regatta.ie has great options for children’s wet gear, including these adorable welly boots featuring everyone’s favourite pig, Peppa. Sure to be a hit for cartoon-loving little ones in need of a new pair. Regatta.ie Peppa Pig wellies (€41.95 on sale now, was €60!).
Farm adventures
Following the success of the Johnny Magory book series, author and Kildare native Emma-Jane (EJ) Leeson has released her latest children’s book Johnny Magory and the Farmyard Féasta. This is the seventh book in the popular series, which is a celebration of Irish wildlife and heritage, all reflected in EJ’s own life living on a farm and wildlife reserve. Every book is 100% Irish-made, written, edited, illustrated and printed all within Ireland.
In exciting news, EJ recently received elusive funding from Screen Ireland to produce an animated series based on the Johnny Magory books. This exciting development will see the author join forces with the team at Elk Studios, who have worked with giants such as CBeebies and Disney Junior, to bring her characters, and Irish heritage, to life on screen. Johnny Magory and the Farmyard Féasta (€10).
Easy understanding
Fellow author and children’s stage school owner, Alison Vard Miller, was aware that many children were becoming very anxious about the pandemic and finding it hard to make sense of the situation. As a result, she came up with the idea for The Naughty Little Germ, an engaging story book that uses age-appropriate language to outline what is going on in the world today in a fun, colourful yet informative manner. The aim of the book is to show that if we all work as a team and are kind to each other, we can beat The Naughty Little Germ. The book is available now in Dunnes Stores, Tesco and Circle K outlets nationwide (€9.99).
Gift idea
If it’s a gift for a child or a new parent you’re after, there are lots of good ideas on Irish online store lovedbyrascals.com. We love this Irish language card by designed Bold Bunny (€3.50), perfect for sending birthday wishes.
Get creative
Can you ever go wrong with crayons? Let them unleash their inner creativity with these eco friendly wax crayons on Little Green Shop (€8.50).
Balancing act
For a big ticket item, this balance board is a fun game for kids aged 6 and up that improves coordination. Handmade in Co Donegal, the Huku Ulu board is €140.
