Eco-sweet and plastic-free: we’re in dollhouse heaven

by Shari | Doing Good

When I survey my children’s toys, I have two thoughts: 1. I should have purchased stock in Duracell. 2. How can one household amass so much plastic? So I was thrilled to come across a world of handmade toys, interactive ideas, and three oh-so-beautiful words:...

Corolle’s potty training dolls for your whiz kids (heh)

by Christina Refford | Toys + Playthings

I jumped through many hoops to get my son to finally use the potty: candy rewards, sticker charts, pleading. But I never did try a potty-training doll since I found most of them to be kind of unappealing as a doll that you’d want to snuggle at night after...

Vintage paper dolls that feel right at home on your couch

by Kirsten | Art + Decor

When I was a young girl, my favorite pastime was playing with paper dolls. I loved dressing them up and creating stories with each of them. I think it’s great that they have made such a comeback into toys and decor because my own daughter loves them as much as I...

Mini vintage rag dolls that inspire huge love

by Liz Gumbinner | Toys + Playthings

When I brought home a Best Pals rag doll for my youngest daughter, I had no idea it would end up becoming one of her very favorite of many (many) dolls an stuffed animals. I mean, clearly I loved the simplicity of the design and the wonderful backstory behind its...

The nesting dolls that your baby’s nest needs

by Delilah S. Dawson | Art + Decor

We love the whimsical designs, beautiful black and white contrast, and durability of Wee Gallery products. So not surprisingly, they make for some of the most interesting nesting dolls we’ve ever seen.Hurry, though– quantities are limited, and you’ll...

Two adorable Kokeshi dolls that are made to be read

by Christina Refford | Books for Kids

As much as my kids and I love Japanese Kokeshi dolls, I can’t bring myself to let another collection into the house, what with all the stuffed animals and favorite rocks already displayed around my girls’ room. But, I’ve found a way to combine...

7 adorable mermaid toys and gifts that have nothing to do with Ariel Barbie

by Liz Gumbinner | Toys + Playthings

What’s that old adage about how spring is coming, and a young girl’s thoughts turn to mermaids? Oh right, that’s not an adage. Still, my girls seem to be extra interested in them these days, and I’m happy to see so many cropping up that...

That doll? My kid made that. Sort of.

by Stephanie Mayers | Toys + Playthings

I spent a good portion of my childhood coloring, drawing and creating and was very proud of what my mother assured me was some serious talent. I can’t even imagine how excited I would have been if she then had one of my creations turned into a doll from my very...

A super girl doll for your super girl (or boy!)

by Eva Glettner | Toys + Playthings

I am all about empowering girls. Especially when it seems like so many media messages out there do just the opposite. So I’m glad to find some handmade girl power on Etsy. The Super Girl doll is handcrafted goodness to the tune of braided hair, yellow goggles...

Owl love you forever

by Eva Glettner | Toys + Playthings

Owls are some seriously cool animals. They have big eyes, they’re nocturnal, and they “whoo.” They’re also the requisite cute kids motif of the decade, which you know if you’re an avid Cool Mom Picks reader.You know what’s cooler...