The Next Kid Thing

As they say, the internet—specifically, social media—has forever changed the way we receive information.  But lucky for us shopping fanatics, that’s a good thing.  Even though I’ve been on Twitter for almost a year, I love seeing that it’s going mainstream.  Better yet, many of my favorite stores and brands are joining the Twitter and Facebook bandwagon.  On very few occasions, these stores and brands are harnessing the power of social media the “right” way, rather than having a one-sided conversation.

It’s true, I often see stores or brands tweet or merely post things without interacting with the consumer.  It’s too bad for them because these new social media outlets are invaluable to both the consumer AND retailer.  For instance, check out one of my favorite stores, Janie and Jack.  Last night, Janie and Jack, a part of the Gymboree Corporation, tweeted a preview to their upcoming line.  They posted the link to the sneak peek of their new lines, which then led to their Facebook Fan Page which showcased four photos of super cute outfits that aren’t even available online until June 29 and in the stores until July 8.  Cupcakes and pirates: two of our favorite things!

Great usage of Twitter AND Facebook, Janie and Jack!  While these adorable new outfits might not be on our budget just yet, that preview reminded me that Janie and Jack has a 60% off sale going on right now!  These sales are awesome, especially since I normally don’t buy at Janie and Jack until things go on sale!  If you’re new to Twitter or even if you’ve been on for awhile, be sure to follow your favorite stores and brands, in addition to your friends, and you’re bound to find some secret sales, previews and maybe a deal you just can’t pass up!

Have we connected on Twitter?  Maybe I’ll even do a secret contest of my own soon. hmmmm…

Dubbed the “World’s Best Flip Flop”, Havaianas have been a staple in Brazil for many years, but are making their mark stateside. For a few years now, while walking in the City, I have always noticed the simple-looking rubber flip flops that boast a tiny Brazillian flag on its straps. Once I learned that they were Havaianas, I began to see them everywhere all the time!

As a flip flop fanatic, I can never have enough flip flops! Some families wear Crocs, we wear flip flops! But unfortunately, I have yet to find well made and comfortable flip flops for kids—that is, until I came across Havaianas for kids! They come in a spectrum of vibrant colors and look super comfy, making them perfect for the beach and for everyday wear. Kids and Baby Havaianas can be found at various stores such as giggle and Flip Flop Style for Kids!

While we’re talking about Havaianas, moms and dads, this is for you: I thought I’d mention that the Gap is stocking them as well! Gap stores nationwide will begin carrying select Havaianas styles and colors for women and men through August, with select stores carrying Havaianas year-round. As a way to usher in summer, from now until June, the Gap will have a concept called the Urban Beach Flip-Flop Shop on 54th and 5th Ave in NY. Fellow flip flop fanatics will have a chance to customize a pair or two of their own Havaianas at the Make Your Own Havaianas customization bar.  Hello, summer!  Hello, flip flop season!

They say April showers brings May flowers, but I think Mother Nature has a different agenda this year. We’ve seen a lot of rain in the past few weeks here in the Tri-State area, and I hear it’s pretty much the same in other parts of the East Coast.

Always on the prowl for practical, yet fun kid accessories, I came acrross Hatley’s great selection of rain gear.  I always complain that most retailers crowd the boys’ department racks with clothes splattered with choo-choo trains and puppy dogs. Well, not Hatley, they go beyond puppy dogs with cool designs on their rainboots like aliens, moose and camping gear!  I can take trains and puppies in moderation, so I appreciate Hatley’s adorable selection of rain gear.  The pirate rainboots are definitely my favorite.

Insert cutesey Arrrgh! or other pirate-y catchphrase here

The girls’ selection has accessories beyond pink for those in the pink rebellion!  Check out this adorable apple print umbrella–it’s so cute without being sticky sweet.

Toys “R” Us announced that they’re adding some new inventory. In addition to Barbies and Thomas the Train, the retailer will now sell snacks, beverages, paper goods, laundry detergent and cleaning supplies. Just a few weeks after announcing their discount shop concept, Toys “R” Us will be adding the “R” Market to the front of 260 stores. While the new concept may not offer the same variety as a grocery store, the “R” Market aims to accommodate shoppers with the convenience of one-stop shopping.

According to an article in Time, the prices at “R” market weren’t as competitive as other big box stores. Convenience is the keyword here, so expect to pay more for the accessibility to your Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies while shopping for Polly Pockets. Ok, so they won’t have a full blown dairy aisle, but it seems like they will have a lot of good stuff to offer.
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Fellow barganistas, behold: Toys “R” Us has set up a new shop with us in mind. Toys”R”Us has introduced a new concept within their stores called $1-$2-$3 Fun!

The feature shops are located in the front of its stores nationwide and are aimed to provide affordable fun.  In this economy, you can’t go wrong with inexpensive and fun goodies.  In the same vein of Target’s Dollar Spot and other discount store concepts, each shop features around 100 items for $1, $2 or $3. The shops will showcase different themes such as dinosaurs, games and fun toys, princess dress up, musical instruments, art supplies and party favors. The goodies found in $1-$2-$3 Fun would be ideal for party favors, stocking stuffers and other daily events where inexpensive goodies are appreciated!

Who says you can’t get anything for a dollar anymore!?

Just in time for Spring, the fabulous baby store, giggle now features this adorable Jingle Chicken with a flock of baby chick finger puppets. The set, which is a giggle exclusive, is made from certified organic cotton and colored with natural dyes, making it a perfect eco-friendly addition to any nursery.