The Biz: Feature Articles

Stories that feature animal characters are so prevalent in the children’s’ book section that in many libraries, they outnumber books with human protagonists. Kids love animals and always have; they tend to be able to connect to these furry or feathered creatures and identify with their curiosity and innocent view of the world. Kids also may find it easier to face fears and work out moral dilemmas when these challenges are seen through the eyes of a friendly non-human character. The Extraordinary Love Story of Aye Aye and Fedor is a heartwarming story that shows kids how “human” animals can be, and how important it is for us to protect them and their environments.

The tween niche can be a challenge to effectively target. Businesses need to be catering to adult, parental notions of style and utility, while developing an understanding of the evolving nature of the child. Designers have to be sensitive to the growing child’s changing moods as well as parents’ desire to preserve the essence of pure childhood –– no easy task. Companies like Dragonwing Girlgear, Purple Pixies, Max & Bean, and Matooka Kids Couture are forming a vanguard of tween fashions that acknowledges the edgy, while still promoting all that is good about children.

There are many things parents can do to ensure their older child feels secure and prepared in the face of becoming an older brother or sister. Resources abound to help teach young children about the pregnancy and birth process, to help them relate to the newborn, and to normalize common feelings of envy, wonder, and nervousness that can accompany welcoming a new sibling. Here are a few t-shirt and book ideas to help children transition to becoming big brothers or sisters: Just Tees Please, Tee With Sugar, Jabberwocky Books and I See Me! Inc.

Finish the final touches on your holiday plan and start facing your future with clothing lines that will spruce up your spring and summer 2014 store. For your classic clientele, introduce Max & Dora, a luxury collection that features a mix of contemporary cotton and linen with vintage trim. A costume designer makes dress up fun and practical with Ele Story, featuring ornate silhouettes with the perfect pleat and ruffles that rule. Spring means spring break and no vacation would be complete without bathing suits. Muddy Feet Boutique has made tracks in unique swim and resort wear that will set you apart from the rest. Spring also means parties and formals, so don’t leave the tweens out of the mix. STELLA M’LIA features fashion-forward but age-appropriate dresses perfect for any event.