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.

LEARN
Children’s Etiquette Class
What: Young soup slurpers (ages 7-12), accompanied by an adult, learn the basics of mealtime manners from Colleen Rickenbacher.
Why: You might pick up some pointers, too.
When: Sun., 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd. For reservations (required), call 214-443-4750. Adults, $60; children, $75.

WATCH
Madeline and the Gypsies
What: The Parisian heroine gets swept away with the circus in the lively musical adaptation.
Why: You can always count on Miss Clavel to keep her safe (whew).
When: Fri.-Feb. 12. Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 2:30 p.m.
Where: Creative Arts Theatre & School, 1100 W. Randol Mill Rd., Arlington. Tickets online at creativearts.org. Adults, $10; children, $8.

BURROW
Prairie Dog Day
What: Since there are no groundhogs to be found at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, take a guided hike to learn about his distant cousin.
Why: Here’s hoping he won’t see his shadow.
When: Sun., 1-2 p.m.
Where: 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth (817-392-7410). Park admission, adults and teens, $5; children, $2; under 3, free. Prairie Dog Day, adults and children, $5.

Photo: Courtesy of Boy + Girl