Dear parent,

Congratulations. You’ve been granted the perfect excuse to visit every toy store in this city — a child!

May we suggest starting small with the newly opened Lola Toy Stop in Ghirardelli Square. Packed with a drool-worthy selection of playthings in every kid-coveted category, the shop stocks things that go (Thomas trains, Automoblox cars), craft and science kits that delight, and toys for make-believe.

Discover newer brands, like Kid O and Plui, alongside classics from your childhood (yes, they still make scratch-and-sniff stickers and Fisher-Price record players). There’s even a play area to test toys and a reading nook for hunkering down with a book.

Just be forewarned that when it’s time to leave, there may be tears — from both of you.

Sincerely,
The Fun Committee

Lola Toy Stop, Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point Street, between Polk and Larkin Streets, lower level (415-795-1400).

TOE TAP
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
What: Get ready for an all-star lineup (Steve Earle, John Prine, Gillian Welch).
Why: It’s hardly strictly just for grown-ups.
When: Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (children’s music program, Thurs., 11:30 a.m.-noon).
Where: Golden Gate Park, Fulton St., at 25th Ave., in the Speedway, Marx, and Lindley meadows. Free.

LEARN
San Francisco Birth & Baby Fair
What: Browse the marketplace, find a doula, or sign up for a parenting workshop.
Why: One-stop shopping.
When: Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Fort Mason Center, Herbst Pavilion, 99 Marina Blvd., at Buchanan St. Tickets online at birthandbabyfair.ticketleap.com. Families, $25; adults, $8; 18 and under, free.

PLAY
Jamaroo Kids Studio Opening Celebration
What: Dance, yoga, and art, with free face painting, balloons, and snacks.
Why: Get a free sneak peek.
When: Sat., noon-6 p.m.
Where: 2001 Pine St., b/t Laguna & Buchanan Sts. (415-614-2001).

Photo: Courtesy of Lola Toy Stop