Your lil boy is quickly outgrowing the "lil" moniker. He is likely looking to spend some more time on his own, playing and learning independently. Take a cue from him and consider some gifts that will encourage him to explore on his own. Among our choices for tots this age are: Recently named one of the best illustrated books for children this year, A River of Words: The Story of William Carlos Read more

Don't be surprised if the six-year-old in your life is a lil chatterbox. Kids this age like to express themselves and tend to be social butterflies. With that in mind, we sought out several gift ideas that will encourage group play, while helping the child learn new skills and create items. Among our picks for the grade school child are: A child-sized pool table with real cues, balls and Read more

The kindergartner on your list may be a bit precocious at times, but he is still a baby in your eyes. Help him continue to explore the world around him with some gifts that are sure to get him asking questions. Among our favorites for the five-year-old this year are: A Make My Own Monster Kit from FAO Schwarz. The kit includes colored pencils, paper, and a detailed questionnaire from which you Read more

Preschoolers are quite an ambitious group. They spend their days at school being the line leader or napkin passer, and then come home to demonstrate their ability to complete tasks with less oversight. At this age, they are often rewarded in knowing that they finished a project on their own, rather than with applause or treats. Encourage this independence with gifts that allow them to work by Read more

Three-year-olds tend to be a bit fickle as they express their independence. One moment they are telling you they can do it all by themselves, then the next they insist on holding your hand. When shopping for a gift for a preschooler, look for items that showcase their new found abilities. Among our favorite selections for this age group: The ballerina in your life will be begging to put on a Read more

Since scoping the trailer for the upcoming Hotel for Dogs film, I couldn't wait to learn the names of all the four-legged cast members we spotted (refresh your memory here). A couple of the film's human stars – Jake T. Austin and Emma Roberts – made a special stop earlier this week to promote the movie and show a whole line of special-edition stuffed animals at FAO Schwarz. In addition to Read more

"Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel" and Adam Sandler's "Hanukkah Song," often come to mind when many people think of Hanukkah songs. While the selection of tunes and books is nowhere near as vast as it is for Christmas, there are some great items out there...if you search. But, we've done the hard work for you so find our top bookstore picks for the Festival of Lights below. They include David Read more

Holiday dressing does not necessarily mean tartan plaids and tree-appliquéd sweaters. Though Hanukkah clothing tends to focus on blue and white clothing, Jewish humor comes through in a wide selection of t-shirts and baby accessories designed for the Festival of Lights. This The Maccabees: Hanukkah Rocks ($20 on sale) long-sleeve shirt is more than just a unisex novelty tee. Packed in a Read more

Two isn't terrible! The key to entertaining a rambunctious two-year-old is patience and a steady stream of back-up ideas to prevent meltdowns. Look for toys that keep children active as well as items that let them explore their creative sides. Among our choices for lil two-year-olds are: Kitchen play items like grocery carts, play food, and cash registers allow toddlers to imitate adult Read more