It’s hard to get a handle on drink boxes. One squeeze too many and mom’s cleaning up a tidal wave of apple juice.

Keep the mess to a minimum with Innobaby’s new Keepaa drink holder. The expandable sleeve gives sippers a handle to grip everything from milk boxes to yogurt smoothies.

We tested ours on a newly independent drinker and rather than cursing the day Capri Sun created the pouch, we enjoyed a stress-free, spill-free beverage break. The sleeve also collapses flat, which makes for easy transport to play spaces and birthday parties (a.k.a. messy drink territory).

Like all of Innobaby’s products, the Keepaa is free of BPA, phthalates, PVC, and lead, so it’s as safe as it is useful.

We’ll drink to that.

Available online at innobaby.com, $6.

ALL ABOARD
North Pole Express
What: Suit up in pajamas for caroling, hot cocoa, and a train ride with Santa.
Why: Alas, no stops at the North Pole.
When: Mon.-Wed., 2:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Cotton Belt Depot, 705 S. Main St., Grapevine. Info at 817-410-3385. Tickets online at grapevinetexasusa.com. Adults and children, $18; under 2, free.

GLOW
Menorah Lighting
What: Kick off the first night with singing, chocolate gelt, and storytelling.
Why: Did someone say free jelly donuts?
When: Tues., 5 p.m.
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy., lvl. 1 (972-702-7100).

PLAN AHEAD
Cirque Banquisté
What: Performers twist, flip, and fly in the family-friendly show.
Why: The Lone Star Circus shows off homegrown talent.
When: Dec. 29-Jan. 1, 2012.
Where: Dallas Children’s Theater, Rosewood Center for Family Arts, 5938 Skillman St. Tickets at 214-740-0051 or online at tickets.dct.org. Adults, $45; children, $25; laps seats for 3 and under, $6.

Photo: Courtesy of Innobaby