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.

GLIDE
Pentagon Row Ice Skating
What: Show off skills or learn new ones at the outdoor rink.
Why: Plenty of space for tiny twirlers to practice spins.
When: Thru Mar. 20. Mon.-Thurs., noon-10 p.m.; Fri., noon-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Where: 1201 S. Joyce St., Arlington (703-418-6666). Adults and teens, $8; children, $7; skate rental, $3.

FLURRY
The Snowy Day
What: The wintry Ezra Jack Keats classic is brought life with an original score.
Why: Could be the most flakes you see all year.
When: Thru Feb. 12. Tues.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.; Sat., 11 a.m., 2 & 4:30 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Where: Adventure Theatre, Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo (301-634-2270). Tickets online at adventuretheatre.org. Adults and children, $18; under 1, free.

SHIVER
MSP Polar Bear PlungeFest
What: Stop by for free fun and watch brave souls take a dip in the Chesapeake Bay to benefit Special Olympics Maryland.
Why: Little cubs dig the caricaturists and balloon sculptors.
When: Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Sandy Point State Park, 1100 E. College Pkwy., Annapolis. Info at 410-242-1515 ext. 503. Register for plunge online at plungemd.com. Festival admission is free; Polar Bear Plunge, $50 minimum donation.

Photo: Courtesy of Boy + Girl