If you are the architect of your child’s future, and developmental toys are the building blocks, we suggest hiring Manzanita Kids as the contractor.
The Seattle-based venture, launched by David and Adrienne Minnery, turns walnut, cherry, and maple woods into modular building sets, stackers, puzzles, and blocks. The husband-and-wife duo draws upon their backgrounds (his in woodworking, hers in education) to create age-appropriate, ecofriendly, and safe toys for kids.
Our favorite pieces include the building walls and extender kits that let littles construct forts, castles, and underwater seascapes big enough for tushies to plop down in the middle and play. The modular stacking puzzle is designed to teach spatial relations to toddlers, but we think it’s intriguing enough to place on the living room coffee table.
After all, the family that plays together stays together.
Available online at etsy.com, $14-$148.
Photo: Courtesy of Manzanita Kids

ALOHA
Philadelphia International Flower Show
What: Marvel at the Hawaiian-themed displays, then make art projects and watch movies in the lounge designated for sprouts.
Why: Family day on Sun. means stories, a beekeeping demo, and more fun for junior gardeners.
When: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Schedule online at theflowershow.com.
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St. Info at 215-988-8899. Tickets online at v2.interactiveticketing.com. Adults, $27; children, $15; under 2, free.
JAM
Kids Corner Music Festival
What: Rolie Polie Guacamole, The Fuzzy Lemons, and Roy Handy & the Moonshot thrill mini music lovers.
Why: Take a break from rocking out for crafts and balloon sculptures.
When: Sat. Doors, 10:30 a.m.; concert, 11 a.m.
Where: Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St. Tickets online at secure.publicbroadcasting.net. Adults and children, $8.
SEARCH
The Great Narberth Leprechaun Hunt
What: Scurry through town in search of the illusive green guys and gather treats as you go.
Why: No need to find the end of the rainbow; there’s gold coins and Irish music right here.
When: Sat., 1-4 p.m., or until supplies last.
Where: Starts at the corner of Forrest Ave., at Haverford Ave. For info, e-mail info@narberthonline.com. Participation is free.








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