Each of these made-in-NYC kids’ gifts is sure to thrill the recipient while you support local artisans and commerce–so go ahead, go shopping and show your city pride!
Forget about hitting the big-box store when you need to buy a gift! Support local artisans, crafters, and manufacturers who produce quality, unique gift items right here in our city—not only will you be doing your part to support the Made-in-NYC movement, but you’ll also get a reputation as one of th best gift givers around! These 16 gift ideas have you covered from baby showers to toddler birthdays and beyond.
Most Aesthetically Pleasing ABCs: Minted Artwork
We love this print — perfect in your new arrival’s nursery — made by Queens resident Anais Lee. As an immigrant from Taiwan, art has been a way for Lee to communicate with the world beyond the language barriers, she said. All Ages. (Pricing begins at $24 unframed, $29 framed; Minted).
Hippest Baby Shower Gift: My Brooklyn Baby Onesies
My Brooklyn Baby onesies are designed and produced in Brooklyn by local designer Elvis Rosa. Printed on 100 percent cotton, the onesies’ catch phrases such as “Spread Love: It’s the Brooklyn Way” and “Made in Brooklyn” are sure to be a hit. Ages 3-18 months. ($25; Spread the Love).
Best Book to Light Up Imaginations: Night Light by Kyla Ryman and Sara Woster
Children will marvel at the many ways light shines, glows, and flashes in this 12-page board book featuring gorgeous, full-color oil paintings by Sara Woster. If you loved the Eric Carle books, Night Light is perfect for you. Bonus: All Home Grown Books are made in NYC on 100% recycled paperboard. For babies and older. ($9.95; Home Grown Books).
Cutest Way to Keep Monsters at Bay: The Lyla Tov Monsters
Lyla Black, who lives in Astoria, was just three-years-old when she went to her mom with a unique idea — to create her own monster — to keep the monsters under her bed at bay. Enter mom Erin, a three-time Emmy-winning costume designer for Sesame Street. Now kids who fear summer camp, slumber parties, or doctor visits have the perfect stuffie to keep them company! Ages 3 and older. ($19.99; Lyla Tov Monsters).
Best Gift to Welcome a Newborn: The Muffy Pink Leather Baby Shoe
You know a girl’s on the way? These adorable soft leather baby shoes are handmade in Lancaster, PA, and finished in Brooklyn. Made to last and be handed down for generations, these shoes are perfect for babies ages 3-6 months. ($68.00; Norman and Jules).
Socks Vs. The World: Vs. Socks
Are you looking for new ways to get kids excited about getting dressed? Check out Vs. Socks. These mismatched, brightly colored socks come in opposing rival animal pairs. Among best sellers are the T-Rex vs. Triceratops socks and Lion vs. Tiger socks. Ages 4-8. (Vs. 3 Pack costs $14.99; Vs. Socks).
A Place to Rest Your Head: Orange Driggs Pillow
Each Snuggly Ugly’s Billyburg pillow is named after the hippest streets in Brooklyn. With his name printed on his striped outfit, Driggs sports an orange tie. He’s got a moustache and hip frames too. ($32; Norman and Jules).
Get a Leg Up on the Competition: Che Rie Leggings
A local designer has created out-of-this-world leggings to test your expressive freedom. Top sellers include leggings with brush strokes, rainbow hearts, flowers, and more! New designs and products added monthly. Ages 4 and older. ($48; Che Rie).
Best Book for Animal Lovers: Turtle and Me by Robie H. Harris
Turtle and Me follows the adventures of a little boy and his cuddle toy turtle who gets damaged over the years, being covered in spaghetti, splattered by mud, chewed by a puppy, and much more. The boy continues to use Turtle like a security blanket until he’s teased about Turtle’s raggedy appearance. Will Turtle be forgotten forever? Ages 4 to 8. ($16.99; Barnes & Noble via Little Bee Books).
Best Book for a Pretty Princess: The Seven Princesses and the Flower Party by Kathy Weimar
Kathy Weimar, a New York-based author, is the creator of the Little Princess Palace brand that includes books, costumes and parties featuring princesses from each continent. If your daughters love the princesses, attend Weimar’s Princess Pop-Up Shops in the city complete with makeovers, fashion shows, and tea parties. Ages 2-6. (Book, $9.99-$24.99; Dresses $98.00; Little Princess Palace).
Coolest Way to Kick Back: Kid’s Chaise Lounge + Umbrella
E.A.T. Gifts, a Manhattan gift shop owned by Eli Zabar, offers this pint-sized chaise made of high-quality, weather-resistant hardwood. The padded cushion and?matching shade umbrella lets kids feel as sophisticated as lounging ?adults. Ages? 4-10. ($150; E.A.T. Gifts).
Most Nostalgic Gift: Memory Threads Quilts
Based in Brooklyn, Memory Threads makes custom-designed quilts from treasured clothing like outgrown onesies, Little League T-shirts, and flannels. Originally a way to save her son’s baby clothes that wouldn’t take up too much space, owner Jenna Fox is now helping others keep their memories close. All Ages. ($95 and up; Memory Threads).
Coolest Gift for Tech-Savvy Kids: littleBits Space Kit
littleBits has become one of the top-rated technology-based toys on the market today. Much like LEGOs, children can assemble various items from each kit. Unlike LEGOs, littleBits light up, make noises, and move. The Space Kit includes five NASA lesson plans and 10 STEAM activities including information on how to build a Mars Rover or transmit music wirelessly to your international space station. Ages 8 and older. ($149; littleBits).
Most Incredible, Edible Treat: DO
Many remember sneaking dough when baking cookies as kids. Now there’s a safe alternative. DO’s pre-made cookie dough is perfect for eating, adding to ice cream, or baking with a group of pre-teen girls. The 20 DO products are made with quality ingredients and no preservatives. Gluten-free, grain-free, and vegan versions are also available. Ages 8+ ($14-28; DO).
Best Book for Budding Stars: Stagestruck: Curtain Up! by Lisa Fielder and Anya Wallach
Anya, 12, puts together a summer theater troupe, recruiting area kids as cast and crew. As director, she navigates showbiz life, including preparing scripts, finding a venue, and handling ticket sales. This book is based on author Anya Wallach’s experience beginning a summer theater camp when she was 16. TONY-nominated Jennifer Damiano (Next to Normal), Aidan Gemme (Tomorrowland, Finding Neverland), and Rachel Resheff (Orange is the New Black) are among camp alumni. Ages 9-12 ($6.99 Paperback; Sleeping Bear Press).
Best Bespectacled Buy: Vint & York
It can be hard to find glasses for kids’ narrow faces, but when their peers have sketched them and chosen colors for the frames, they’re more accepting. Vint & York glasses are designed by Larisa Ginzburg with input from her six children. Sunglasses — both prescription and cosmetic — are also available. Ages 10-13 ($109; monthly deals available; Vint & York).
