1. Cruelty-Free Kitchen

1. Art of Lunch Reusable Sandwich & Snack Bags
Reduce plastic waste with these adorable reusable bags. Art of Lunch is made by a company called Art of Liv’n that partners with artists around the world. This colorful design was illustrated by Danny Ivan, a young artist from Portugal! The bags are easy to clean in the dishwasher, BPA-free, PVC-free and phthalate-free.
view on Amazon

2. Stainless Steel Straws Set
Eliminate plastic straws from your kitchen cabinet with this straw set by Mudder. The perfect gift for smoothie and juice lovers!
view on Amazon

3. Cuisinart Smart Stick Immersion Blender
This immersion blender is a kitchen essential! I’ve used this model for years for smoothies, sauces, soups and sides.
view on Amazon

4. Ninja Professional Blender
This blender has amazing value for its affordable price. It has nearly flawless reviews on Amazon praising its performance crushing ice and pureeing whole fruits and vegetables. All parts are BPA-free and dishwasher safe!
view on Amazon

5. Breville Juice Fountain Elite
Like the Ninja Professional Blender, this juicer by Breville has excellent reviews. It is powerful (heavy 1000-watt motor), beautiful (chic die-cast steel) and easy to clean (all parts except mesh basket are dishwasher safe).
view on Amazon

6. SodaStream Fountain Jet Sparkling Water Maker
Never buy sparkling water again with this sparkling water machine! In seconds, turn flat water into sparkling in reusable BPA-free containers.
view on Amazon

7. Phoney Baloney’s Coconut Bacon
This delicious coconut bacon is hand-made in CA. If you haven’t tried coconut bacon before, push past your skepticism and trust me- it is SO good. It’s crispy, salty, smoky and perfect on everything from sandwiches and salads to ice cream and cupcakes!
view on Amazon

8. Lagusta’s Luscious
Lagusta’s Luscious is the ultimate vegan chocolate shop. Their chocolates “combine a deep commitment to social justice, environmentalism and animal rights with the love of bold flavor of a true foodie and the obsessive commitment to artisan techniques of a chocolatier”. These are the best chocolates I’ve ever had, including chocolates I loved in my vegetarian years. Coconut milk caramels in decadent flavors like Rosemary Sea Salt and Strawberry Balsamic, Peppermint patties, chocolate truffles, gorgeous barks, bonbons and more.
view the Lagusta’s Luscious site

9. The Oh She Glows Cookbook
This is one of my favorite cookbooks! I love it so much that I bought it for everyone in my family last year. They’re all omnivores and they all LOVE the recipes in the book. The dishes are delicious, healthy, beautiful and easy to approach for new vegans or meat-eaters!
view on Amazon

10. TofuXpress Tofu Press
My sister gifted me this tofu press last year and it changed my life- really! Simply place a block of tofu in the press and in a few hours, you have perfectly pressed firm tofu ready to stir-fry or bake. Even better- the press also doubles as a marinating dish!
view on Amazon

11. Miyoko’s Kitchen
Miyoko’s Kitchen makes incredible artisan cultured vegan cheeses that can be shipped across the country. Vegan mozzarella, chive double cream, Mt. Vesuvius black ash cream, aged English sharp farmhouse and more.
visit the Miyoko’s Kitchen site

12. Vegan Richa’s Indian Kitchen Cookbook
Learn how to make flavorful Indian dals, curries, flatbreads and sides with this cookbook by award-winning recipe developer Richa Hingle.
view on Amazon

13. Thug Kitchen: Eat Like You Give a F*ck Cookbook
This cookbook is the first in the best-selling Thug Kitchen series. Don’t get distracted by the foul-mouthed language and categories like “Big Ass Cup of Cozy”, “Short Order Shit” and “Burritos, Bowls and Other Bomb-Ass Meals”- this cookbook is full of amazing recipes like smoky black-eyed peas with roasted sweet potatoes and collards, corn and basil chowder, roasted sriracha cauliflower bites with peanut dipping sauce and banana cream pie.
view on Amazon

14. Stainless Steel Bottle Water Bottles
These adorable water bottles keep drinks cold for up to 9 hours and hot for up to 18 hours! They are BPA-free, lightweight, scratch resistant and come in a variety of pretty colors.
view on Amazon

15. Sweet Maresa Macarons
These vegan macarons are even better than the traditional French macarons I fell in love with years ago. Their beautiful vegan meringue shells are are light, delicate, and moist and they are filled with the most mouth-watering buttercream or ganache. Before they became available in NYC (at Confectionery in the East Village) this year, I would drive almost 2 hours to get them- they are THAT good! Some of my favorite flavors: rose, vanilla, lavender, matcha, jasmine, almond and absinthe.
visit the Sweet Maresa Shop on Lagusta’s Luscious’ site
 

2. Plant-Based Beauty:

1. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Universal Beta Peel
This cruelty-free at home daily peel improves uneven tone and texture, fine lines and wrinkles and enlarged pores. Using this product has dramatically improved my skin’s texture! I use it about 2 times a week and after each use, my skin is left bright, smooth and glowing. This a vegan beauty must-have!
view on Amazon

2. Deborah Lippmann Creme Nail Polish, “Shape of My Heart”
Deborah Lippmann’s nail polishes are vegan, 7-free and cruelty-free! I’m obsessed with her creme polishes’ long-lasting wear and vibrant color.
view on Amazon

3. Deborah Lippmann Addicted to Speed Ultra Quick-Dry Top Coat
This shiny top coat is long-lasting and chip-resistant!
view on Amazon

4. Pacifica Solar Complete Mineral Palette
This gorgeous vegan palette contains eye shadows, blush, bronzer and coconut highlighters! Perfect for a cruelty-free beauty lover.
view on Amazon

5. Pacifica Mediterranean Fig Perfume
This perfume’s scent is amazing- subtle, sexy and comforting. When I wear it, it gives me the feeling of being curled up under a blanket on a rainy day! The best part: It’s all natural (made with essential oils), cruelty-free and 100% vegan.
view on Amazon

6. The Compassionate Chick’s Guide to DIY Beauty
This book is a perfect gift for someone who loves cruelty-free all-natural beauty products! It contains 125 DIY recipes for vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free makeup, skin & hair products using simple ingredients like essential oils, cider vinegar, cocoa butter, green tea, salts and vitamin E oil.
view on Amazon

7. Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen
Protect your precious skin with this oil-free, allergy-free, cruelty-free SPF 50 sunscreen.
view on Amazon

8. Tarte Matte Waterproof Bronzer, “Park Ave. Princess”
This matte bronzer creates an instant glow and warmth on your face that lasts all day. You can also use it contour and sculpt! The formula is infused with vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, water and clay to improve skin clarity.
view on Amazon

9. Supergoop! Forever Young SPF 40 Hand Cream with Sea Buckthorn
The hand cream absorbs quickly, brightens and improves skin’s texture and prevents sun damage. The small size is perfect for throwing in your bag for on the go.
view on Amazon

10. Real Techniques Core Collection Makeup Brush Set
This company makes the most amazing cruelty-free makeup brushes- better than any expensive makeup brushes I’ve ever used! The synthetic taklon bristles are SO much better than real hair- they’re less prone to breakage and non-porous which means they don’t trap or absorb product, bacteria or skin cells.
view on Amazon

11. Beauty Without Cruelty Rosemary Mint Tea Tree Shampoo
This refreshing plant-based shampoo restores body and shine while promoting a healthy scalp! The formula uses organic essential oils, vitamins and sea minerals.
view on Amazon

12. Beauty Without Cruelty Rosemary Mint Tea Tree Conditioner
This conditioner uses natural plant proteins, moisturizers, vitamins and essential oils to strengthen and protect hair. Reviewers LOVE the smell!
view on Amazon

13. MyChelle Beauty Set
This vegan set contains 3 of MyChelle’s best sellers. The Perfect C Serum uses Vitamin C and Buddleja Plant Stem Cells to brighten, protect against photo-damage, and prevent visible aging. Fight wrinkles with their Remarkable Retinal Serum, which is formulated with Retinaldehyde, Ceramide 3 and Plant Stem Cells and protect your skin with their Sun Shield SPF 28, which contains aloe to rehydrate skin after sun exposure.
view on MyChelle’s site

14. tarte Rainforest of the Sea Quench Lip Rescue, “Rose”
This is my new favorite lip product! It’s a moisturizing lip balm that is infused with antioxidants, vitamins and essential oils. It comes in 4 sheer, high-shine colors leave your lips looking perfectly dewy.
view on Sephora

15. tarte Rainforest of the Sea Quench Lip Rescue, “Berry”
A darker version of my favorite lip balm!
view on Sephora
 

3. Rescue, Shelter & Sanctuary Support

1. Adopt an Animal at Woodstock Farm Sanctuary
Donating or “adopting” an animal at a sanctuary in someone’s name is, in my opinion, one of the best gifts you can give to an ethical vegan! The feeling of knowing that an animal in need is getting help in your name is unbeatable. Take a few minutes to learn about Woodstock Farm Sanctuary and you’ll see why I’m passionate about encouraging people to support this sanctuary. They are doing so much wonderful, hard work for voiceless animals who are rescued from cases of abuse, neglect and abandonment. Sponsor an animal for as little as a month or if you’d like to sponsor an animal for a year, your gift recipient will receive a card with your chosen animal’s name, picture and story.
visit Woodstock Farm Sanctuary’s site

2. Make a Donation to Animal Haven
Animal Haven in a nonprofit organization that finds homes for abandoned cats and dogs throughout the Tri-State area. Follow their social media pages to keep up with their heart-warming success stories and upport Animal Haven by making a donation in someone’s name this year!
visit Animal Haven’s site

3. Pig Pillow Supporting Farm Sanctuary
The purchase of this adorable pig pillow supports another incredible sanctuary! Farm Sanctuary has 2 locations in California (Los Angeles & Orland) and one in Watkins Glenn, NY. They’ve rescued and cared for thousands of animals since opening in 1986. They have an amazing online store that supports their sanctuaries with lot of great gift ideas. This pillow features two of their adorable pigs, Anna and Maybelle.
view on the Farm Sanctuary site

4. Do unto Animals Notebooks Supporting Farm Sanctuary
This notebook set made exclusively for Farm Sanctuary’s online shop features the beautiful artwork from from Tracey Stewart’s book Do Unto Animals.
view on the Farm Sanctuary site

5. Farm Sanctuary 2017 Calendar
Get inspired by a different rescued animal every month! Each month features a beautiful portrait and story of a Farm Sanctuary resident.
view on the Farm Sanctuary site

6. Goats of Anarchy: Goats Just Want to Have Fun Book
This book is SUCH a great gift idea for animal lovers. It tells the inspirational story of an NYC event planner (Leanne Lauricella) who left the city to follow her dreams and create a sanctuary for special needs goats. After taking in her first goats, her friend recommended that she join Instagram so she created a page and posted her first picture of one of her goats. The adorable picture went viral, got over 30,000 likes in one day and brought massive attention to her little sanctuary. In just about a year, her account has grown to almost 350k followers! If you don’t follow them on Instagram already, visit their page right now to see why it is so popular. I happy-cried just today watching one of her goats run and jump for the first time on her new prosthetic!
view on Amazon

7. Make a Donation or Buy Gifts That Support Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue
I absolutely love everything about this animal rescue! These amazing people work to rescue dogs from high kill, rural shelters in the southern U.S. and help get them adopted into loving homes. Follow them on social media to keep up with their feel-good adoption stories and updates about dogs in their forever homes! To support Badass while gifting, make a donation in someone’s name or purchase items like t-shirts, doggie shirts, totes and tank tops from their online store.
view the Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue site
 

4. Vegan Fashion

1. Cruelty-Free Sweatshirt
This comfy sweatshirt is chic, simple and perfect for anyone who leads a cruelty-free lifestyle!
view on Zazzle

2. Matt & Nat Demi Crossbody Bag in Black
Matt & Nat is an amazing Canadian company that creates beautiful handbags without the use of any leather or animal-based materials.  They live up to their motto “live beautifully” with their gorgeous line of bags and accessories made with sustainable materials, lined with nylon created with 100% recycled plastic bottles. This crosssbody handbag, the Demi from their Dwell Collection, is the perfect size and weight for a woman on the go! I have it in white and absolutely love its chic style and simplicity.
view on Matt & Nat site

3. Happy Socks (Snakeskin)
Happy Socks make the cutest cotton socks for men and women, like these no-snakes-harmed snakeskin socks!
view on Happy Socks site

4. Happy Socks (Gray with Black Triangles)
Another adorable pair from Happy Socks!
view on Happy Socks site

5. Matt & Nat Brave Backpack in Black
I see this Brave backpack all around the city on the chicest young women! Perfect for fitting everything you need for the day without putting strain on one side.
view on Matt & Nat site

6. Matt & Nat Abiko Clutch in Curry
The Abiko clutch from Matt & Nat is the perfect size bag for a date night or dinner with friends. It comes in 5 classic colors including this gorgeous “Curry”.
view on Matt & Nat site

7. Happy Socks (leopard spots)
Another gray and black sock combo from Happy Socks: leopard spots.
view on Happy Socks site

8. Matt & Nat Hall Oxfords in Black
Matt & Nat introduced their eco-friendly, cruelty-free, vegan shoe line this year and it sold out almost immediately! Pick up a pair of the chicest cruelty-free shoes, like these amazing Hall flatform oxfords from their Wander Collection before they’re gone.
view on Matt & Nat site

9. Matt & Nat Coen Messenger Bag in Black
This classic messenger in black is ideal if you’re looking for a cruelty-free work bag!
view on Matt & Nat site

10. Stella McCartney White Falabella Box Alter Croc Shoulder Bag in Ivory
This bag is the one big splurge in my vegan gift guide! Stella McCartney has the most beautiful collection of high-end vegan handbags! Fashionistas adore them without even knowing that they’re wearing cruelty-free items! Even though her line doesn’t scream “vegan” or “eco-friendly” in its marketing materials (like my favorite handbag company Matt & Nat), I love how she’s sneaking cruelty-free fashion into the mainstream. This Falabella Box Alter Croc Shoulder Bag in Ivory is my pick for a splurge fashion gift for cruelty-free friends and family.
view on Stella McCartney site

11. Pet Studio Art Goat Tote
These adorable tote animals feature rescued animals painted by Pet Studio Art owner and artist Stephanie Conrad. This one features Walter, a goat from one of the animal rescues she supports!
view on Amazon

12. Pet Studio Art Pig Tote
Another cute tote: this one features Nathan the pig!
view on Amazon
 

5. Peaceful Yogi

1. Maxx Studio Faux Fur Throw
I own this throw and it is my favorite blanket to wrap myself in on chilly nights. So soft and cozy!
view on Amazon

2. DoTERRA Diffuser
I use this DoTERRA diffuser every day and night, at work and at home.  My favorite essential oils to diffuse are equal parts lavender and peppermint, which help me to relax, maintain focus, feel refreshed and breathe better than ever. I’ve also gifted this diffuser to several people and it’s always a success!
view on Amazon

3. DoTERRA Essential Oils Set
This essential oil set contains 3 of DoTERRA’s best sellers and includes my 2 favorites: lavender and peppermint! I’ve used many other essential oils and the past and DoTERRA’s are the best by far. They are 100% pure, without any extra ingredients and are thoroughly tested using the strict Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade quality protocol.
view on Amazon

4. Roleo Deep Tissue Massager for Hands, Wrists, Arms and Forearms
This massager changed my life! For years, I’ve suffered from wrist pain that worsens depending on the weather, how much I’ve been playing my instruments (violin, guitar, piano) and how much yoga I’ve been doing. I found this product on Amazon last year when trying to find some sort of wrist brace or pad and am SO happy I took the chance on it. It doesn’t look like much but it helps relieve me of pain that I thought could never be remedied! Put your hand through into the contraption and roll it back and forth from your hand to your forearm and the trigger point rollers massage away tension in minutes. This is a perfect unexpected gift for a yogi, musician or anyone who suffers from arthritis or carpal tunnel.
view on Amazon

5. Zafu Yoga Meditation Pillow by Bean Products
Bean Products make these Zafu Yoga Mediation Pillows in a array of beautiful colors. They’re made with eco-friendly cotton and hemp and are filled with organic buckwheat from the USA.
view on Amazon

6. Blissoma Yoga Mat Cleaner
This certified vegan yoga mat cleaner uses tea tree, lavender, frankincense, eucalyptus, citriodora and palmarosa essential oils to natural remove dirt, sweat and oils from your yoga mat.
view on Blissoma Site

7. Recycled Foam Roller by Organic Yoga
I couldn’t live without my foam roller! A foam roller will sooth your sore muscles, stretch you out and relieve back tension after exercising or a long day of work. This roller is made from recycled foam!
view on Amazon

8. Drishti Natural Cork Yoga Blocks
These sustainably harvest cork yoga blocks are a perfect give for an eco-friendly yogi.
view on Amazon

9. Gaiam Yoga Mat
This yoga mat is lightweight, durable, extra thick (5mm) and comes in a variety of fun colors & designs. I love this purple mandala one.  Gaiam’s mats are free of Phthalates, DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP.
view on Amazon

10. Way Out Wax Lavender Essential Oil Candle
Way Out Wax is a company you should know about. For 20 years they’ve been creating high quality candles using all-natural essential oils and no animal testing, chemical additives, fragrances or dyes. I love their Green Mountain collection, created in the Green Mountains of Northern Vermont. This one is their calming Lavender scent.
view on Amazon

11. Way Out Wax Clear Head Essential Oil Candle
This is my favorite Way Out Wax candle, Clear Head. It uses a blend of Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Rosemary and lives up to its name! This scent helps your mind feel focused and relaxed at the same time.
view on Amazon

12. Way Out Wax Cozy Home Essential Oil Candle
This candle has a warm cozy feel with its blend of Cinnamon, Clove & Nutmeg.
view on Amazon

These award-winning animals make the perfect gift for a toddler!  Stuffies are giving new meaning to the words “stuffed animal”: they have 7 secret pockets for kids to hide their “treasures” and each comes with a hidden interactive storybook.  I was sold on this item when I read Stuffies‘ near-flawless reviews.  Reviewers with children ages 2-10 rave about how much their kids love these toys.  They’re “cuddly”, “durable”, and all-around “loveable”.  I just ordered “Gracie the Hippo” for my almost-3-year-old nephew who loves collecting and carrying coins, sticks, and small toys!

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These onesies make perfect baby shower gifts!  They’re cute, clever, and totally unique.  Keep reading to find out where to get them.

1. “I Just Did 9 Months on the Inside Onesie” by Sara Kety view on www.amazon.com

 
2.  “AB/CD” Onesie by Kiditude view on www.amazon.com

 
3. “Amuse Me Giants” Onesie by Oddi-Tees view on www.amazon.com

 
4.  Pearls & Purse Onesie by Sara Ketty view on www.amazon.com

 
5.  ”The Yo Yo Ma” Violin/Cello Bodysuit by TheWishingElephant  view on www.etsy.com

 
6. “Acute Baby” Onesie by LOL Fashion view on www.amazon.com

 
7. Tuxedo Onesie by Frenchie Mini Couture view on www.amazon.com

 
8. “The Über Geek” Onesie by TheWishingElephant view on www.etsy.com

 
9. “Doctor” Bodysuit by Sara Ketty  view on www.nordstrom.com

 
10. Crawl the Line (Johnny Cash) Onesie by BigBoyMusic view on www.amazon.com

 
11.  “BOOBIES” Onesie by Katy and Zucchini view on www.amazon.com

 
12. “Instagrama” Onesie by Sara Kety view on www.bloomingdales.com

 
13.  “Let’s eat Grandpa.  Let’s eat, Grandpa.” Onesie by VicariousClothing  view on www.pinterest.com

 
14. Guitar Onesie by EviesGift view on www.etsy.com

 
15.  “Miso Cute”  Onesie by FeistyBaby  view on www.etsy.com

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Gift shopping for the little ones in your life? I put together a list of some of my favorite non-toxic, eco-friendly gifts for kids, including toys by environmentally-responsible companies like Green Toys, PlanToys, and Hape.

1. Eco Stars by Crazy Crayons view on www.amazon.com
“These star crayons are made with crayons collected by the National Crayon Recycle Program. The purchase of this product supports ‘Recycling Education’ and employs people with developmental disabilities, creating a positive earth conscious impact through the art of coloring and recycling! Crayons and packaging are made in USA with 100% recycled non-toxic materials.”
2. City Skyline Glow Block Set by Wonderworld view on www.amazon.com
These environmentally friendly rubberwood blocks use non-toxic paints and glow in the dark!
3.  Plan Preschool Beehive by PlanToys view on www.amazon.com
“This toy helps develop fine motor skills by matching a bee to hive by using the pincer grasp or forceps.  All PlanToys are made using chemical free, kiln-dried recycled rubberwood and designed with water based non-toxic colors as accent.”
4. Fruits and Vegetables Tray by PlanToys view on www.amazon.com
“The fruits and vegetables are easily “cut” in half with the wooden knife. Kids love the sound of the Velcro as they cut the vegetables. This toy promotes fine motor skills and imaginative play and is made from all natural organic recycled rubber wood and colored with water based dyes.”
5. Scoot Around Ride On by Hape view on www.amazon.com
This adorable scooter is made with FSC-certified wood and child-safe water based paint.
6. Organic Farm Buddies by Apple Park view the www.amazon.com
How cute are these? “Organic Farm Buddies are handmade using all natural materials, like 100% certified organic cotton, corn fiber filling, and dyes. All of the packaging is printed on recycled paper with azlon from soy ink. Farm Buddies are naturally hypoallergenic, so they are great for newborns and babies with allergies or sensitive skin.” (shown: Penny the Pig & Belle the Cow)
7.  Submarine by Green Toys view on www.amazon.com
We have so many items by Green Toys in our indoor playspace! They are built to last and are dishwasher safe.   “Made in the USA from 100% recycled plastic milk jugs that save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, this sturdy watercraft features a spinning rear propeller, a flat bottom for added stability, and the classic handle and wide-mouth opening combination for plenty of scoop and pour fun. The cabin can be opened for easy cleaning, while the whole vessel is also dishwasher safe. No BPA, phthalates, PVC or external coatings and also meets FDA food contact standards. Packaged with recycled and recyclable materials and printed with soy inks.”
8.  Eco-Dough by Eco-Kids view on www.amazon.com
“Eco-dough is an all natural alternative. It is made with plant, fruit and veggie extracts. No chemicals, artificial dyes or metals. The containers are made from cornstarch and 100% compostable.”  What’s in it? Natural and organic fruit, plant and vegetable extracts from annatto seed, beets, blueberries, carrots, paprika, purple sweet potato, red cabbage and spinach, flour, salt, cream of tartar, organic rosemary oil, vitamin E oil, soybean oil, and coconut oil!
9. Rocket & Astronaut Playset by Green Toys view on www.amazon.com
“3-2-1 blast off – the Green Toys Rocket launches into another eco friendly deep-space mission! Made in the USA from 100% recycled plastic, the fully equipped, 2-in-1 set includes a detachable top capsule and two astronauts. No BPA, phthalates, PVC or external coatings and also dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Packaged with recycled and recyclable materials and printed with soy inks.”
10. My Creative Cookery Club by Hape view on www.amazon.com
I love this play kitchen for toddlers by Hape, a company that has eco-responsibility in its company mission!
11. Build-a-Bouquet Playset by Green Toys view on www.amazon.com
This is one of my favorite 100% recycled toys by Green Toys. Love this: “On average, every pound of recycled plastic used to make Green Toys products saves enough energy to run a laptop computer for a month and enough energy to power a TV for three weeks.”
12. Giraffe Walker ‘N Shape Sorter by Wonderworld view on www.amazon.com
Made from rubberwood, non-toxic water based paints as well as biodegradable fabrics.

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These gift ideas are perfect if you’re looking for a way to give to charity while giving to your loved ones!

1. Superfruit Lip Balm by Peacekeeper Cause-Metics  (view online) “Peacekeeper Cause-Metics is the first cosmetics line to donate all of its after-tax, distributable profits to women’s health advocacy and urgent human rights issues.”
2.  Youth Hoot Beanie by Krochet Kids Intl.  (view online) “With every product you purchase, you are helping Krochet Kids provide women in Uganda or Peru with fair and consistent income, skills training and mentorship.”
3. Beech Wood Troubadour Headphones by LSTN (view online) “For every pair sold, LSTN helps restore hearing to a person in need through the Starkey Hearing Foundation.”
4. Species Adoption by World Wildlife Fun (view online) “Your symbolic adoption supports WWF’s global efforts to protect wild animals and their habitats.”  Choose from over 100 species to adopt! For a $50 donation, you’ll receive a plush animal, adoption certificate, photo, and species info card!
5.  Hope Soy Candle by Juara (view online) “10% of proceeds from this candle will be donated to Walubi charity relief organization dedicated to aiding Indonesian disaster relief efforts.”
6. Gold + Silver Dust Set by SAME SKY (view online) “SAME SKY provides jobs globally for women struggling to lift themselves out of poverty. Instead of a handout, we believe in giving a hand-up and the tools to become self-sufficient. Trained as artisans, SAME SKY women earn 15 to 20 times the average wage in Sub Saharan Africa. 100% of net proceeds are reinvested to train and employ more artisans in need.”
7. Navy Navia Throw by JADEtribe (view online) “With every item you purchase, you are helping JADETribe provide financial opportunity for women in Southeast Asia and support the artisitic and cultural tradition of textile weaving.”
8. Just Like You by the Just Like You Foundation (view online) 100% of the profits of this amazing book go to charity. You can choose which charity you would like to donate to at checkout!
9. Charity Pot Hand & Body Lotion by LUSH Cosmetics (view online) “Every penny (yes, every single penny) that you pay for a pot, excluding the tax, goes to fund and support grassroots charities all around the world.”
10. Earthwise Rust Men’s Vegan Classics by TOMS (view online) “With every product you purchase, TOMS will help a person in need. One for One.”
11. Grey Ikat Women’s Vegan Classics by TOMS (view online)
12. Earthwise Cranberry Bimini Tiny Vegan Classics by TOMS (view online)

We put together a collection of classic toys and games designed with a stylish, modern aesthetic.    No apps on this list and no batteries needed!  We’re going back to basics with tops, blocks, hopscotch, darts, and dominoes!

1.  Cat Steps by Educo (3-7 years) $12.99
view this item on www.amazon.com
Move over tin cans! These steps are safe, sturdy, and perfect for walking in the sand. Your children will improve balance, coordination, and motor skills while leaving behind adorable cat paw prints along their path! 
2. Spinning Tops Optical Set by Haba (3-8 years) $8.99
view this item on www.amazon.com
This top set comes with 8 optical illusion disks to try!
3. Life on Earth Matching Game by eeBoo (4-8 years) $12.51
view this item on www.amazon.com
The gorgeous images on these sturdy cards are a perfect way to learn about different animals and improve memory skills.
4. Hardwood Texture Dominoes by GuideCraft (3-7 years) $18.48
view this item on www.amazon.com
Perceive through touch with textures like hardboard, sandpaper, cloth, and more. We love this modern twist on dominoes!
5. Design Your Own Yo Yo Kit by Seedling (5-11 years)$12.18
view this item on www.amazon.com
Craft your own home-made yo yos with your children!
6. Dado Cubes by Fat Brain Toys (3 years+)$24.95
view this item on www.amazon.com
Children can unleash their creativity and design flair with these smart “blocks”. The slits in the cubes allow them to interlock, forming unlimited 3-D structures. This item is a favorite in our playroom!
7. Jump Rope by Green Toys (5-9 years) $7.64
view this item on www.amazon.com
This adorable jump rope is made of 100% recycled plastic and cotton rope. Every product Green Toys makes is eco-friendly, eye-catching, and durable!
8. Hop to It Play Carpet by Learning Carpets (2-10 years) $35.54
view this item on www.amazon.com
Hopscotch is easy with this soil and stain resistant carpet with skid-proof backing.
9. Automoblox Minis by Manhattan Toy (3-15 years) $22.64
view this item on www.amazon.com
These cars are so much fun to take apart and reassemble! The full-size cars from Automoblox are fantastic as well and excellent for developing fine motor skills.
10. Doodle Pro Travel by Fisher-Price (3-7 years) $18.50
view this item on www.amazon.com
The Doodle Pro is perfect for little hands on the go.
11. Doinkit Dart Set by Marky Sparky (6-15 years) $26.09
view this item on www.amazon.com
Take the fear factor out of darts with this magnetic set!
12. Three-Seater Rocker by Wesco (1-4 years) $134.99
view this item on www.amazon.com
This is another favorite in our playroom! This update to the see-saw is easy to use, stable, and can be used inside or outside.

Hohner makes fantastic, durable musical instruments for young children.  Almost all of the instruments our students play in our Upper East Side music studio are by Hohner.  They are attractive, easy to clean, and have great sound!  We put together a list of the 5 most popular.

To purchase any of the featured musical instruments:

Visit our NYC studio-  TLB Music 266 East 78th Street  NY, NY 10075  www.tlbmusic.com

or click on the links below each item to purchase on www.amazon.com.

Toddler Xylophone
view on www.amazon.com

Maracas
view on www.amazon.com

Translucent Harmonica
view on www.amazon.com

Tambourine
view on www.amazon.com

Ocean Wave Drum
view on www.amazon.com

1.  Plaid Trapper Hat by San Diego Hat Company $26.24 view online at www.amazon.com
2.  Knit Giraffe Beanie by Gap $16.95  view online at www.gap.com
3.  Katahdin Pom Hat  by LL Bean  $16.95  view online at www.llbean.com
4.  Two-Toned Flower Hat by Gap $18.95  view online at www.gap.com
5.  Faux-Fur Trapper Hat by Old Navy $15.00 view online at www.oldnavy.com
6.  Shearling Trapper Hat by Gap $17.99  view online at www.gap.com

7.  Kids ‘Scandinavian’ Hat by United Colors of Benetton $24.00 view online at www.nordstrom.com
8.  Alpaca Mouse Hat by Egg by Susan Lazar $38.00 view online at www.giggle.com
9.  Faux-Fur Trapper Hat by Gap $14.00 view online at www.gap.com
10. Plaid Flannel Earflap Hat by Gymboree $11.99 view online at www.gymboree.com
11. Knit Hat with Pom Pom by San Diego Hat Company $21.74 view online at www.amazon.com
12. Fair Isle Sweater Beanie by Gymboree $5.99 view online at www.gymboree.com

NEW hats for kids post written 12/9/13:
The Cutest & Coziest Winter Hats for Kids

We put together a collection of holiday gift ideas for kids to inspire you on your search for original, imaginative, quality gifts.  Scroll below the images for clickable links to all the items on our list!


1.  Toddler Xylophone by Edushape  (12 mo +)  $17.49 at www.musiciansfriend.com /
also available at TLB Music in NYC
2.  Stripes the Long Eared Bunny by Schilling (2 +)  $21.95 at www.fatbraintoys.com
3.  Dunck Stacking Bath Toys (10 mo +)  $10.00 at www.skiphop.com 
          BPA-free, Phthalate-free, PVC-free
4.  Peace Sign Eco Pack  (5 +) $56.00 at www.landofnod.com
         Made with recycled plastic water bottles
5.  Red Sportscar Automoblox (3+)  $28.82 at www.amazon.com
          Take apart, re-build, mix and match with other Automoblox cars!
6.  Jungle Apron by Mimi the Sardine (2-6) $16.26 at www.amazon.com
          Made with coated organic cotton.   Perfect for arts & crafts, cooking, and more!
7.  Vega 600 Telescope (8 +)  $78.98 at www.fatbraintoys.com
8.  Stacking Tree by Plan Toys (2 +) $15.50 at www.amazon.com
          Made with recycled rubber wood.
9.  Oh Hanukkah Play Set (3+)  $34.00 at www.landofnod.com

10. Tea Set by Green Toys (2 +) $19.99 at www.amazon.com
          This set is made with recycled milk jugs, is non-toxic and dishwasher friendly.
11. Dino Lunch Box by Beatrix (3 +) $30.60 at www.oompatoys.com
          PVC Free, phthalate free, and lead free.
12. Stacking Cups by Green Toys (6 mo +) $9.99 at www.amazon.com
          Made with recycled milk jugs.
13. Recycling Truck by Green Toys (12 mo +) $17.91 at www.amazon.com
          Made with recycled milk jugs. No metal axels.
14. Twig 72-piece Building Block Set by Fat Brain Toys (3 +) $33.04 at www.amazon.com
15. Wavedrum by Edushape (12 mo +) $13.95 at www.amazon.com /
also available at TLB Music in NYC
16. PlasmaCar by PlaSmart (2 +) $53.98 at www.amazon.com
17. Pull-Along Snail by Plan Toys (19 mo +) $17.99 at www.amazon.com
          Made with recycled rubber wood.
18. Manhattan Toy Winkel (1 mo- 1 yr) $16.65 at www.amazon.com
          Perfect for teething babies.

19.  Cloud b Twilight Turtle (2 +) $21.99 at www.amazon.com
          Projects starry night sky onto walls and ceiling in soothing colors!
20. Dado Cubes by Fat Brain Toys (2 +) $21.31 at www.amazon.com
21. Spy Gear Night Goggles by Wild Planet (6 +) $21.69 at www.amazon.com
22. Smart Snacks Counting Cookies (2 +) $12.43 at www.amazon.com
23. My First Lab Duo-Scope Microscope (8 +) $60.57 at www.amazon.com
24. Treetops Giraffe by Russ (1 mo +) $13.78 at www.amazon.com
25. Beginner’s Guitar by Lauren (4 +) $44.49 at www.amazon.com
26. Deluxe Standing Easel by Melissa & Doug (3 +) $50.64 at www.amazon.com