Arcadia Toys
5027 N. 44th St., Phoenix, 602-957-5066,urbanashop.com/arcadia-toys
Pop into Arcadia hot spot urbAna and you’ll find Arcadia Toys, a shop-within-a-shop specializing in the chicest infant and toddler toys, clothing and books.
Basically Bows & Bowties
7000 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, 480-483-2697, basicallybows.com
This specialty kids shop lays claim to “the Southwest’s largest selection of handcrafted hair bows and hair accessories.” Its selection is indeed impressive: Buffalo plaid bowties, bowties with bells and ribbons, bowties printed with butterflies and unicorns and layered in gauze. Specialty bowties mark the seasons. The shop also carries other kids’ items, including clothing, accessories and toys.
Hissyfits Kids Consignment Boutique
7036 N. Seventh St., Phoenix, 602-674-1250, hissyfitsaz.com
Peruse gently used, high-end kids’ clothing, toys and furniture at this beloved CenPho shop, which also carries brand-new clothing, accessories, equipment and gifts. It’s an eclectic, ever-changing mix that’s always full of “finds.”
Kidstop Toys & Books
6990 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, 480-609-9012, kidstoptoys.com
You can buy a kid one gumball, or you can help them make their own tricked-out gumball machine with this DIY kit, one of hundreds of diversions at this jam-packed shop. From plush toys and picture books for infants and toddlers to science kits and card games for big kids and grown-ups, there is no “fun” stone unturned here.
Mae & Marie
5618 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, 602-957-2917, maeandmarieshop.com
You’ll find cute outfits for baby and mama at this “haute hub for mini and she.” And these aren’t the pastel-hued mommy-and-me outfits of the ’80s – think sleek jumpsuits, tropical print dresses, cropped sailor pants, motorcycle jackets and more.
Modern Milk
13802 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, 480-999-1585, modernmilk.com
Lactation consultant Stephanie Nguyen set up her Scottsdale shop as a multi-use haven for new moms to see lactation consultants, take fitness classes and stock up on essentials and treats, from Lucy Darling books and milestone stickers to bottles and lactation cookies.
Strolleria
8425 N. 90th St., Scottsdale, 480-442-9433, strolleria.com
Amy and Drew Venzke’s Scottsdale baby boutique specializes in stylish baby gear, from strollers, car seats and booster seats to cribs, bouncers and high chairs. Not just any big-box store registry items will do for the Venzkes – they pride themselves on sourcing high-quality and often hard-to-find brands like Nuna, Stokke, Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Clek and Thule.
Wildlings Toy Boutique
6031 N. 16th St., Phoenix, 602-283-4260, wildlingstoys.com
Jenn Mawcinitt draws from her experience working in special education to inform her Phoenix boutique, which specializes in inclusive toys for all abilities and developmental stages. She collaborates with other educators, therapists and specialists to ensure her “heirloom-quality” toys are educational as well as fun. Great selection of books, journals and mindfulness tools, too.
Zoolikins Children’s Boutique
7118 E. Fifth Ave., Scottsdale, 480-878-4138, zoolikins.com, minisocialaz.com
Run by ethically minded moms, this locally owned jewel on Scottsdale’s Fifth Avenue stocks a carefully curated selection of eco-friendly baby toys, clothing, books, gifts and cloth diapers. They also operate Mini Social, a kid-friendly play café and event venue next door where parents can drink coffee, take classes and watch their children play.
