An important life lesson we’d like to impart to our sons: A man of steel doesn’t have to be as hard as plastic.

Sophie & Lili’s superhero dolls have the power to soften things up. The twelve-inch dolls are handmade from high-quality quilter’s cotton and can be personalized to resemble your little caped crusader.

Choose the skin tone, hair color, and tee/cape combo that best matches your mini. His first initial will be prominently displayed on a shield across the doll’s chest.

And have no fear: Just because they’re squishy doesn’t mean they aren’t tough enough to ward off evil, fight villains, and save the day. They just do it with a more tender touch.

Available online at sophieandlili.com, $30.

SNUGGLE
Rain or Shine Kids Seattle CityScape Blanket
What: Wrap them up in familiar sites — like the dragon sculptures and the Fremont Troll — with the locally made coverlet ($70).
Why: The water-resistant fabric rocks on rainy days.
When: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Once Upon a Time on Queen Anne, 1622 Queen Anne Ave. N. (206-284-7260); online at rainorshinekids.com.

BLOOM
The Secret Garden
What: Book-It Repertory Theatre’s rendition of the beloved Frances Hodgson Burnett tale.
Why: Heroine Mary Lennox quickly realizes the rewards of going green.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-noon.
Where: The Seattle Public Library, Ballard Branch, 5614 22nd Ave. NW (206-684-4089).  Admission is free.

PIROUETTE
Cinderella
What: With a little help from her fairy godmother, the humble girl meets her prince.
Why: Budding ballerinas love the crafts and dance lessons one hour before each matinee.
When: Fri. Thru Feb. 13.
Where: Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St. Tickets at 206-441-2424 or online at pnb.org. Adults and children, $27-$165.

Photo: Courtesy of Sophie & Lili