LET'S PLAY | GLOBE by MONSTRUM

A subject close to my heart, is architecture and I especially love all the new great playgrounds with a focus on architecture that is being created all around the world at the moment. In my new catagory LET'S PLAY you will find some of them that I have found and covered on the blog.

Today I want to show you The Globe designed by Danish design studio Monstrum.

“The Globe” is a great playground with the library as the center. The playground is divided into five main play areas, each representing a specific compass direction. Each play area is a story about the specific area. There areas offers different play opportunities, so that users get different play experiences depending on where you choose to play.

The playground contains small fragments and stories about nature, animals, landscapes, geology, culture and much more. The aim is to inspire, arouse children’s and adults’ knowledge desire while creating space and opportunity for play and exercise.

In the design of play areas, the emphasis is on the integration of play opportunities for children with different disabilities. At the same time we have focused on the availability on the playground with level access and a sitting area in the playground equipment.

The five areas are connected with a world tour around the house, which is marked in the floor and with stories and fun fact

Globe is designed by MONSTRUM - a studio that design and produce unique playgrounds with a focus on artistic and architectural quality. They create thematic playgrounds that fascinates and inspires both adults and children. To check out more of their great creative playground please visit their website.

The globe is located at Århus new main library and citizen service center in Denmark. 

OUTFIT BABY | GRAPHIC POP

OH.. there's no hiding it. I have such a weak spot for some graphic, bold clothes on the minis. If you are like me and like a bit of contrast, you should check out the online shop FOURMONKEYS. Based in Austria, but shipping worldwide there is something for everyone. The Minimalist, The Rocker, The Chic or the Colourful.

As the weather is slowly getting warmer over here, in Europe the Autumn is drawing nearer so I thought I would pick out a nice warm outfit for a baby and a few goodies from their selections. Enjoy! Click on links for shopping source:

1. Yay tattoo by Tattly / 2. Knitted Beanie by Tiny Cottons / 3. Brushed Teddy Sweater by Mingo. / 4. Time to Hibernate Blanket by Tiny Cottons / 5. Dombo Cup by Gispen / 6. Uffie Doll by Luckyboy Sunday / 7. Robot money box by KG Design / 8. Knitted Triangle Pants by Tiny Cottons / 9. Shoes by AKID / 10. Bunting by Fabelab / 11. Brrrr socks by Tiny Cottons.

SHOP VISIT | Mr. Wolf Kids

It is not often I have time to visit stores these days, especially not wonderful little stores that are filled to the brim with amazing little gems that you seem to need to pick up and admire from a close range. Most of my shopping these days happens online, but every now and then I get to visit a brick and mortar shop and then the enjoyment knows no limits. The other week we were fortunate enough to be in the neighborhood of Mr. Wolf Kids - A shop that seem to have stocked everything your curious young heart can desire! Toys, clothes, shoes all arranged in the most lovely way.

It is easy to loose track of time as you look through the shelves and explore their great selection of wonderful labels sourced from all over the world. Soft pillows and toys from Luckyboy Sunday (Denmark) Gorgeous clothes with fun prints from Bobo Choses (Spain) Magical garlands from Numero 74 (France) Creative wooden toys from Miller Goodman (England) and the list goes on.

Owned by the lovely Eve Adamidis, who has such a great eye for picking up the creme de la creme of all things coming from the small universe. Every corner is filled with little gems and it is hard not to want everything in this store. I had my kids with me and I soon found out it was impossible to leave without picking something up. We had filled our Easter holiday with great experiences in nature but hadn't had much time for any creative indoor time, so we found some great crafty super clay from Tiny Tribe that was the perfect item to bring home for two creative thirsty kids. 

We can really recommend a store visit to Mr. Wolf Kids but make sure you have at least 30 min to spare because you will need it going through this treasure trove of goodies. As you step through the doors you instantly feel the years falling off your shoulders and you become a kid again. It is not hard to see why it is such a popular shop for both parents and kids!

VISIT THE SHOP 

Mr. Wolf
No 5 The Mall, LWR Templestowe, 

Victoria, Australia

VISIT ONLINE

www.mrwolfkids.com.au

OUTFIT | Graphic POP

There is nothing better than a bit of colour to pop you out of the dull season that Autumn / Winter can be, here are few styles I think would be great to take you and your baby through the darker season!

1. Ziggy Jumpsuit by Minti / 2. Bugaboo Chameleon Complete pram / 3. Little Monster Tee by Minti / 4. Vinyl toy by Artoyz / 5. Towel by Bobo Choses / 6. Walker Clown Fish UGG boots by EMU Australia.

OUTFIT | Mini

Looking for a cool outfit for that little mini monster of yours? Here is what would be high on my list if I had a little cheeky one running around...

1.  Wars Hoodie by munsterkids / 2. Snaggle Track Pant by munsterkids / 3. Pompom beanie by Minti / 4. Jabber Jaw Long sleeve by munsterkids / 5. Ladery sneakers by Tip Toey Joey / 6. Cubebot, natural by Areaware.

ART | Artist Play Series by Toca Boca

If there is one app both myself and the kids love then it's Swedish Toca Boca. Having worked in the games industry myself for over 7 years I have seen my fair share of games and made quite a few as well and I know that at the base of every good game is great characters and game play. Toca Boca definitely has both and have in many ways invented a new way of playing for kids. Also in this day and age it is hard to find apps that doesn't have in-app purchases (I am sure parents out there are tired of getting crazy bills for power up mushrooms?) You can also rest assure that there are no third-party ads. This is simply play for the play sake!

Imagination is high on the agenda and we have downloaded all of their inventive games such as Toca Kitchen, Toca Hair Salon, Toca Builders, Toca Cars, Toca Mini and Toca Nature to only mention a few. I love that they focus on games that is about playing. Forget about times and scores, the goal in these games is to have fun and play. Creation is also a corner stone in the games. You build and create and there are no rules stopping your child from exploring.

Recently they launched a collaboration with artists called ARTIST PLAY SERIES - A new project that invites international artists to celebrate the synergies of play and art by creating tools for play. The result is a series of physical toys that encourage imagination and self-expression with a US-based artist creating the first product, Toca Ink.  The first product in the Artist Play Series, was created in collaboration with renowned Brooklyn-based tattoo artist Virginia Elwood. Inspired by the bold graphics of Toca Boca’s characters, Elwood created six temporary tattoos that feature characters from popular Toca Boca digital toys such as Toca Kitchen Monster and Toca House, allowing kids to imagine what it would be like to have a real tattoo by one of the world’s most skilled tattoo artists.
 
“As a tattoo artist for over 10 years now, I regularly see how tattoos spark kids’ curiosity,” said Virginia Elwood. “Kids always want to touch a tattoo, ask questions about them and even have one drawn on them. Creating the Artist Play Series temporary tattoos was a fun way of making Toca Boca tangible for kids in the real world. I spent a lot of time playing the apps to understand the character’s personalities to transfer them to a temporary tattoo design.” - Virginia Elwood.

We have come to love these characters through all of our time spent with them in the games and the kids were thrilled to be able to get their favourite game characters on their skin. We were also pleased to see that they make their own cool tees as well! Made from 100% organic cotton and also featuring some of their many memorable game characters.

D & M is wearing Toca Boca Tee & Nova Tee.

To find out more about the Toca Boca universe visit them here:

:: TOCA BOCA :: 

GIFT GUIDE | BABY BOY

Since Christmas is approaching (and fast!) I thought I would list a few of my favourite items out there for the kiddos. First out is a few gems for the little baby/toddler boys that I love!

1. Llama box from Areaware / 2. Baby blanket from Minifellow / 3. Mushroom lamp from Heico / 4. Sleeveless hoodie by Minti / 5. Baby rattle by Areaware / 6.  Mug by Dombo / 7. Track pants by Minti / 8. Milk Tee by Grey Ham NYC / 9. Shoes by Old Soles / 10. Knitted crown by Oeuf NYC / 11. Wooden robot by Areaware / 12. Bedding by Emile et Ida / 13. Car by Playsam. 

PLAY | Toca Paper Creatures

We have been long time fans of Swedish company Toca Boca who makes great apps for kids on multiple platforms. Lately they have added some creative toys to their shop and I'd like to show you their new collaboration with Argentinian artist CHU. I absolutely love toys that promotes imagination and creativity and this little set does both!

Toca Paper Creatures - a puzzle of colorful pieces that can be combined in thousands of different ways to make a completely unique little creature - is the result of the collaboration together with Argentinian street artist, CHU. Currently living in Buenos Aires, CHU is known for his work in art, illustration, graphic design and animation, among others. As the co-founder of the DOMA Collective, a multidisciplinary art and design collective, CHU played a key role in bringing street art to Buenos Aires 

To get an idea of how the collaboration worked check out this great little artist visit with CHU and his inspiring work in the city landscape.



:: TOCA BOCA / PAPER CREATURES ::

Interior | Rafa Kids Toddler Room

RAFA kids collection of bedding, blankets, pillows and baskets for a child’s room is growing this season. Already being a big fan of their designer furniture for kids, this new range of bedding and room accessories fits perfect in their esthetic form language. I love their new storage baskets that are perfect for stray toys, and their soft linen pillowcases looks great to rest a tired head on.

The big stuffed snake can be a perfect bed dumper for younger kids or perhaps fold up for a quick cushion at a reading session.

Find more info and photos on their range at:

:: RAFA KIDS ::

OUTFIT | OH BABY BOY

Ankle biter, trouble maker, diaper dude... the little rascals have a lot of names!  Here are a few items that would make the little guy strut his little stuff in a seriously cool way.

1. Lil Bones Romper by Mini Munster 2. Spiked Superhero Hoodie by Beau LOves /  3. Smurf vinyl toy by ARTOYZ  4. Bat hat by Ouef NYC / 5. Trouble maker temporary tattoo by Tattly  6. Stormtrooper Slip on by Vans / 7. 'To the moon and back' banner by Homely Creatures /  8. Bandit Bat by Udder /  9. Balance bike by Strider.

Let's Play | Fourmonkeys

My inner child comes out and wants to play when I see a good toy selection. I am a big fan of wooden toys and great shapes and online shop Fourmonkeys have heaps of them. Toys for all ages and the design lover in you will also be satisfied. Find great labels like Areaware, NAEF, Oeuf NYC, Tattly, Kiko+ and more.

If you are an early Christmas shopper head on over and find some great stocking finds I doubt these will stay in stock for long so sooner is better than later!

Have fun!

TOYS @ FOURMONKEYS

Let's Celebrate | Happy Halloween!

Have a great, scary day out there! We don't need a reason to dress up, but today is as good day as any! My kiddos are donning some classic outfits, we have one rattling skeleton boy and one cackling witch. If you are celebrating Halloween, may you have a good one and may your trick or treat bag be full... (just don't forget to brush your teeth ;)

photo source: pinterest

Let's Shop | Beetles & Bugs

Some lovely goodies from the wonderful selection of online shop Beetles & Bugs!
A bit about Beetles & Bugs: In 2013 The Designer Brigitte Neve realised her long time dream, which started with the birth of her first niece and started “Beetles & Bugs”. With these careful and loving chosen products Beetles & Bugs try, through attractive and stylish design and natural materials, which will suit parents as well as children to make everyday shopping easier. For Beetles & Bugs, transparency is very important, so that quality, sustainability and fair working conditions are top priority.

1. Penguin jumpsuit by Popupshop / 2. Denim hair bow by Maison Indigo / 3. Ballerina Doll by Studio Escargot / 4. Horse sweatshirt by Popupshop / 5. Leopard tights by Popupshop / 6. Flap the rabbit by Hektik / 7. Brown bear bedding By Nord/ 8. Raindrops print by Floor Number Four 9. Knitted Kids blanket By Nord /10. Baby leather shoes by Donsje / 11. Wooden blocks by Uncle Goose. 

Favourite Picks | Monochrome Love

It can't get any simpler, black and white, a match made in heaven and something you can match with everything. It is not new yet it doesn't seem to get boring, here is a few monochrome things that we love!

1. Sleep bag by Anatology / 2. Cap by Hugo Loves Tiki / 3. Feathers tattoo by Tattyoo / 4. Sweatshirt by Hugo Loves Tiki / 5. Slippers by Nununu / 6. Toadstool lamp by Heico / 7. Nesting dolls by Wee Gallery / 8. Drawstring  bag by Noe&Zoe / 9. Wild Thing poster by MonoMini / 10. Bat Beanie by Oeuf NYC / 11. Union Jumpsuit by GoatMilk.

PLAY | Stack And Scare!

How cool are these stack and scare monster blocks by Uncle Goose? Stack and create your own monsters with this 18 piece set.  Featuring scalloped dowels, scales, robotic diodes, monster heads, hands, feet, patterns and much more. Mix and match shapes or combine with other Stack And Scare sets to unleash endless creature combinations!

Comes in 4 different sets and  are sure to keep your little one (and yourself) entertained for hours.

Shop at:

:: INVISIBLE CREATURES ::

INTERIOR | Bright n' Light

We are having a typical rainy and slightly cold winters day here in Melbourne so it's easy to dream away and planning when looking at these bright and light kids spaces.

photo sources: from top left. ollieandsebshaus.co.uk / lapetitmag / blackbirdstyle.blogspot.fr / milkmagazine / choleuberkid.

One Stop Shop For Boys | Alfie Wild

Say a big hello to Alfie Wild -the place to find everything for boys! Inspired by a mother constantly searching for the unique and beautiful for her own three sons, this store is dedicated to bringing your boys the best they can find.  They source premium fashion forward brands from around the world and bring these together in one place. Most of their range is unisex but they have a boy focus, making shopping so much easier for those mums and dads searching for something wonderful.

Here are a few of my favourites from the shelves of Alfie Wild!
1. Tattoo kit from Tattyoo / 2. Dog plate by PSihouvanjou / 3. Lizzard tee by Mini Rodini / 4. Pillow by Lucky Boy Sunday / 5. Pillow by Lucky Boy Sunday / 6. Paper animals by Mibo / 7. Thermal top by Goat Milk / 8. Tattoo set by Tattyoo / 9. Soft toy by Lucky Boy Sunday / 10. Cat tank top by Beau LOves / 11. Bedlinen by Beau LOves / 12. Moon poster by Martin Krusche.   

:: ALFIE WILD :: 

Things I Love | Graphic Black

Oh I am falling in love with the magical selection at Fourmonkeys these days. There is something so crisp and minimalistic that evokes my graphic love for all these labels that owner Kinga has selected carefully from across the globe. Here are a few items that tickles our fancy right now.

Nununu Circle swimming suit /  yo-yo by Playsam / Nununu number hoodie / Be kind banner / Bunny Dress by Bang Bang Cph / Black pompom by Miss Etoile / Shoes by MAÁ / Leggings by Theif&Bandit / Foxy Girl necklace / Plush by Corby Tindersticks / Diamond by Naef.

:: FOURMONKEYS::

SALE + FOURMONKEYS

Fourmonkeys are having their big SALE on at the moment. Find a whole heap of hand-picked authentic children's wear at 50% OFF. Shop labels like, Opililai, Esp no.1, Bisgaard, New Generals, Ver De Terre, I Dig Denim and many more. Above is a few of my own favourites.

Fourmonkeys ships worldwide

:: FOURMONKEYS ::

Things I Love | Christmas Gift Guide

Oh these are the times when you start to run around like a mad chicken looking for that good gift for Christmas (or at least I am!!). Here are a few nice present ideas for boys, girls and babies.

1. Deluxe Facemaker by Miller Goodman / 2. Pink zig-zag tipi by Nobodinoz / 3. Pyjamas by Noeuf / 4. Tiny shark hoodie by Mini & Maximus / 5. Wooden camera by Fanny&Alexander / 6. Panda overall by Mini Rodini / 7. Fox back pack by Nobodinoz / 8. Bandit penguin by Udder / 9. Fur lined sneakers by Feiyue / 10. Wooden blocks by Uncle Goose / 11. Balloon necklace by Titlee / 12. No Bullying Tee by Mini & Maximus / 13. Temporary Tattoos by Tattly / 14. Apple pillow by Studio Meez / 15. Balancing blocks by Areaware.