A Time for Children

Profile

Owner Margie Stern opened this Upper West Side children’s shop in 2007 to support the Children’s Aid Society; 100% of the profits go toward supporting the organization’s adoption, foster care, health, and education services for children in need. The society also recruits teens who work at the store on weekends and after school as part of a four-month retail training program. But charity is far from the only reason to check out this serene, tiny space with a blue sky painted on the ceiling. The selection is adorable and plentiful, with cotton onsies from Petit Bateau as well as tiny tees with quirky slogans, like “Miso Cute” and “That’s how I roll” (with a picture of a little red wagon); Trumpette socks printed with flip-flops and sneakers for infants; and Robeez leather shoes with cars, bears, and winged hearts for new walkers. Colorful hardcover books—including Mo Willems titles with matching stuffed animals—handmade cards, and lipstick pens highlight a lineup of quirky gifts that feel as good to give as they are to buy. — Caroline Kinneberg

Related Stories

Featured In

• 'A Time for Children' Sells Careers for Kids (10/29/07)