You never considered the straw a candidate for a redesign.

But since your little sipper started slurping (and slopping) you realize the old-fashioned straw, in a word, sucks.

Keep spills and splatters to a minimum with Straw-lution, the mom-invented straw that goes in and doesn’t come out (really, we tried). Simply push it through the top of any cup and little hooks grab the underside, making it impossible to remove.

It also works with yogurt and applesauce (anything with a foil top), turning them into sippable, mess-free, portable snacks.

Best part: They’re reusable and dishwasher safe — so your money doesn’t go down the tubes.

Available online at strawlution.com, $5 per dozen.

DAZZLE
Lazer Vaudeville
What: Juggling, magic, and plenty of audience participation.
Why: Black lights set the stage aglow.
When: Mon., 10 & 11:30 a.m.
Where: Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale (954-468-3285). Tickets at 954-462-0222 or online at parkerplayhouse.com. Adults and children, $6; lap seats for 1 and under, $3.

REFLECT
Thanksgiving Tree Week
What: Tykes write what they’re thankful for on a paper leaf and affix it to a tree.
Why: Crafts and stories get your little pilgrim pumped for Turkey Day.
When: Mon.-Wed., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; crafts and stories, 4:30 p.m.
Where: Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Cswy. (305-373-5437). Adults and children, $15; under 1, free.

HELP
Borders and Build-a-Bear Workshop Charity Drive
What: Buy books and toys from the store to be donated to local children in need.
Why: Pick up the cuddly Hal Moose for your own munchkin, too.
When: Thru Dec. 24.
Where: Locations online at borders.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Straw-lution