The last thing you want to be known as on the birthday party circuit is the mom who gives every child the same bored, er, board game.
Mix things up with a visit to Sara Gifts and Toys, a quirky newcomer to the city’s toy store scene. The just-opened Inner Richmond shop stocks a range of playthings, puzzles, clothing, and decorative items you’re not likely to find anywhere else.
There’s something for every age and interest, including dress-up clothes (tutus, cowboy hats), push cars, and arts-and-crafts kits. But the big draw is the eclectic jumble of imports: artisan-embroidered elephants, 3-D bamboo puzzles, and tiny Japanese nanoblock models (catnip for nimble-fingered builders).
You’ll have to drag your mini from the try-it-out section devoted to robots, kinetic radio-control cars, and solar-juiced things that go.
But not before snagging colorfully modern wool felt slippers — in every size.
Sara Gifts and Toys, 124 Clement Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues (415-240-6030).
RHYME
Seussical the Musical
What: A romp through a medley of Dr. Seuss faves, adapted for a family audience.
Why: There are only two performances.
When: Sat., 2 & 5 p.m.
Where: Jewish Community Center, Kanbar Hall, 3200 California St., b/t Presidio Ave. & Walnut St. (415-292-1200). Tickets at 415-292-1233 or online at tickets.jccsf.org. Members, $22; public, $24; children under 12, $18.
RIDE
Mother’s Day BikeAbout
What: Families pedal around the San Francisco Zoo grounds and greet the animals in the quiet before opening. A continental breakfast follows.
Why: It beats cornflakes in bed.
When: Sun., 8:30-10 a.m.
Where: Sloat Blvd., at Great Hwy. Info at 415-753-8135. Register online at sfzoo.org. Members, $25; nonmembers, $30; children on their parents’ bikes, free.
PLAY
Japantown Children’s Day Festival
What: A free holiday for the underage set with taiko drummers, snacks (Spam sushi), and crafts.
Why: Solidarity with the little people.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Japantown Peace Plaza, Buchanan St., at Post St.
Photo: L. Brand
