Kids Chicago - January 26, 2009

Strange Brood

Odd Doll Plush Toys

Your munchkin always travels with his best friend, Ted E. Bear.

Expand his social circle at Odd Doll, where weird and wonderful plush toys are designed by local illustrator and mom Jennifer Rapp Peterson.

More than twenty characters come with their own stories. The Tuckins are flat cloth animals (pigs, monkeys, bunnies) that slip into little beds. Pillow Monsters are asymmetrical pillows with sewn-on silly faces. And Nubblings are original pint-size crossbreeds like the puppy-mouse.

Peterson will soon stock toys from other independent artists.

Giving you more than the bear necessities.

Available online at odddoll.com.

MUNCH
Maddy’s Organic Meals at Home
What: Local company now delivers its preservative- and chemical-free gourmet baby and toddler food to your door.
Why: It’s mad delicious.
When: The eat is on.
Where: Online at maddysorganicmeals.com.

MEET
Frasca Playdates
What: Pizzeria clears away huge space in which kids play while parents enjoy salad, pasta, and drinks for just $9.
Why: You deserve a break.
When: Every Thurs., 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: 3358 N. Paulina St., at Roscoe St. (773-248-5222).

SMELL
Spring Flower Show
What: Get a sneak peek at next season’s blooms and play in the Elizabeth Morse Children’s Genius Garden.
Why: Green means go, kiddo.
When: Sat.-May 10. Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; except Wed., 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., at Fulton Blvd. (773-638-1766).