Decoding kids is a full-time job. Was that an I-ate-a-cupcake-and-now-I’m-crashing meltdown or an I-feel-a-cold-coming-on-and-I’m-2-and-can’t-tell-you catastrophe?

Either way, we’re grateful for the simple things, like Boy + Girl, a new collection of understated clothing for — you guessed it — boys and girls. Founded by fashion industry vet Christine Chang (Nike, Ralph Lauren), it fills the gap left in the marketplace by, er, the Gap.

There’s no flash or dazzle, just straight-up, laid-back, wash-and-wear sweatshirts with raw edges; wide-neck striped tees; and muted pastel peasant tops constructed from silk/linen blends.

It’s easy does it with fleece sweatpants cut like chinos, ankle-zipper leggings, and cotton twirling skirts with wide, ruched waistbands. Lightweight square blankets in linen and cotton work overtime as scarves for mom and dad — and that’s as complicated as the collection gets.

Problem solved.

Available online at shopboyandgirl.com, $32-$98.

GAZE
Children’s Film Festival Seattle
What: Introduce your soon-to-be cinephile to movies and animated shorts from around the globe.
Why: Slippers (and teddy) are welcome at the pajama party.
When: Thurs.-Feb. 5.
Where: Northwest Film Forum, 1515 12th Ave. (206-329-2629). Tickets online at nwfilmforum.org. Adults, $10-$14; children, $7-$14.

BLOOM
Thumbelina: the Original Flower Child
What: Hans Christian Andersen meets hippie in Oregon Shadow Theatre’s twist on the tale.
Why: Accompaniment from the electric guitar adds to the grooviness.
When: Sat. & Sun., 1 & 3 p.m.
Where: Northwest Puppet Center, 9123 15th Ave. NE (206-523-2579). Tickets at 800-838-3006 or online at brownpapertickets.com. Adults, $10.50; children, $8.50.

INTERACT
PlayWise
What: Drop by for free stories, crafts, and hands-on fun (ages 2-5).
Why: Educators Miss Betsy and Miss Marcie get your rug rat’s seal of approval.
When: Fri., 10 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.
Where: Hands On Children’s Museum, 106 11th Ave. SW, Olympia (360-956-0818). Adults and children 2 and up, $8.

Photo: Courtesy of Boy + Girl