The Biz: Feature Articles

What do your customers do when they feel down, confused or angry? Young kids often don’t know how to work out their feelings and, when problems get bottled up, they can become miserable. Here’s a clever solution! The Feeling Bag is a short, simple book that deals with emotions and how to release them. The original book was developed by writer Jennifer Griffin when she noticed her young daughter going through tough times brought about by a difficult period. The book comes in a choice of boy or girl versions. With each book comes a plush Feeling Bag that kids can punch and hit or hug and take to bed.

Curious little fingers want to see what it’s like to get all made up, just like mom, grandma, or an older sister. The mysterious allure of cosmetics lies not only in their ability to change appearance, but also in the delightful rainbow of colors available. While little girls are interested in the colors, parents are concerned about their children growing up too fast. Plus, families are growing more knowledgeable about the chemicals affecting their bodies. Companies like Kiss Naturals, Little BU, Mini-Play Makeup, and Earth’s Beauty are helping parents and kids find a happy medium.

Childhood just isn’t complete without the plaintive wails of a child begging for a pet. And that pet? Usually a dog. You may have seen books about the responsibility of getting a pet, but JJ The American Street Dog and How He Came to Live In Our House goes beyond that and teaches valuable lessons about all the amazing things that can come from adopting a rescue dog. The author, Diane Rose-Solomon, is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and has been involved with rescue for 18 years, ever since she adopted a homeless dog.

Most children of the ‘70s and ‘80s have memories of the giant blow-up bop toys that were so popular. Bop toys are still around today, but now more and more parents are disappointed with these kinds of playthings because of the unnatural materials contained in them. Pueri Elemental is a company that offers earth-friendly toy choices for kids. Their Eco-Bonk line leaves the bop toys of old in the dust by introducing new and improved designs and ecologically sustainable materials.