I love all of the kid-friendly play spaces and classes in Chicago. I can only imagine that they will be a life-saver when the temperatures drop. During the summer months, several spots are offering discounted packages. I try to keep my daughter indoors when the sun is at its hottest each day, so we’ve been heading to Gymboree for play and learn classes.

The space is great - padded climbing areas, slides, carpet, gym mats…a fun spot for young explorers. I haven’t loved the classes, but the open gym time can’t be beat. I suspect that it’s less crowded now than in summer months, which is fine by me! You can learn more and check out the class schedule here.

My favorite, favorite online spot for toys is Oompa Toys. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, this online retailer carries a huge selection of wood, European and educational toys. Delivery is prompt and the user reviews are actually helpful! Check it out - and sign on for their membership program, which helps to discount future purchases.

Check out Four Peas Funky Monkey backpack featured in the magazine Tot Trends Weekly.  You can view the magazine online at www.tottrendsweekly.com to check us out!

From the magazine…

4. A touch of preppy style makes the toddler backpacks from Four Peas a perfect choice. Whether you have a Little Rockstar, a Mini Sports Fan or a Funky Monkey, Four Peas has a super cute pack that will fit.

Check out our great toddler sized and school book sized backpacks for back to school.  And, this October, look for our new toddler and school book backpacks, as well as our new rockin’ messenger bags and lunch bags. 

Four Peas is the place for cool bags for all kids!  Stand out…be different

This week, Four Peas is offering 50% off of all clothing items.  Check it out and stock up on your favorites…buy some gifts…get your kids some new clothes!

Four Peas has been reviewed by a cute blog (mommy blog of course, because we know kids’ stuff best).  Together we are offering a a free backpack to 2 winners.  Check out the site http://adventuresinbabywearing.blogspot.com/2007/06/easy-peasy-giveaway.html and sign up today!

I recently received an adorable skirt for my daughter Ava from LaTeDaKids.com, so I decided to check out their web site. At La Te Da you basically “design it yourself” and they offer many different fabric choices and a varitey of styles to choose from. The best thing is, you get to mix and match any of their fantastic fabrics and create a dress or skirt that is unique for your child. This is also a great place to pick up a unique gift. And, for those of you who feel a little less creative than others, they have a store with pre-made designs you can choose from.

So, check out www.latedakids.com for something adorable and a little less ordinary for your little one.

If you have not heard of Pipsqueaks by now, you need to get on board and check them out! I bought two pairs of shoes for my daughter Ava (2 1/2) from Addy’s Closet (addyscloset.com). Really cute brown leather with an easy to use velcro strap, and a colorful pink, orange and green pair also with a velcro strap. They arrive and I let Ava try them on. She started running around the house sqeaking! Now, I have to be honest, although these shoes are called Pipsqueaks, I had no idea they would actually squeak! These shoes are so hilarious and she loves them so much that she has actually started putting on her shoes by herself! The good thing is, if you get tired of all the noise, the little squeaker can easily be taken out (and I believe put back in). If you are interested in purchasing Pipsqueaks, check out www.addyscloset.com .