The age-old practice of buttoning kids up in stiff, starched party clothing is a fading memory. Today’s parents realize that all their children’s clothes are play clothes. No matter what the occasion, kids will be kids and their clothing needs to stand up to that fact. No problem! Modern children’s fashions are not only super stylish, but are comfortable and durable as well, so parents can take their tots to a special event and stop at the playground on the way home without blinking an eye. Check out the eye candy assortments from Zackali 4 Kids, Right Bank Babies, Deux par Deux and Sara Sara, perfect for both partying and playing!

Children’s products seem to be getting nominated for more awards than ever — even Hollywood might blush! But does winning awards truly help sell the products? Our moms have mixed feelings about the influence of accolades. When it comes to what matters most, moms also place a lot of weight on word-of-mouth recommendations from other moms. The eighth question in The Giggle Guide’s exclusive series asks: “Do product awards/accolades influence your selection of children’s products, and if so, how?”

I have been attending the KidShow in Las Vegas for the past 7 years. I was there at the first windy tent event at the Rio, through many seasons at the Riviera, and for the past few years at the convenient and comfortable Bally’s. KidShow, under the welcoming and efficient direction of show maestro Denise Raeside, is one of my favorite children’s business events. I talked to a trio of reps to find out how they continue their lucky streak with this Vegas show: 4 Kids on 6, Bob Parrish and 2-2 Hot.

Jill Sundahl is a Los Angeles mother of two young hip kids who share her interest in helping the environment. Recently, Jill decided to put her money where her carbon footprint was, and opened an online and brick-and-mortar environmental specialty store in Studio City, California. Although still a little sprout, her jillybean green store is quickly growing up vibrant and strong. Here, Jilly shares with The Giggle Guide™ how “going green” in retailing can lead to healthy, thriving profits!