A is for Alexander Girard - Alphabet blocks for you mid-century design freaks

My heart is going thumpity-thump on seeing the new Alexander Girard alphabet blocks by House Industries. Yes okay, so the set is 100 bucks at maXimo design but the truth is, if I add up all the disposable plastic toys we've received for …

A is for Alexander Girard - Alphabet blocks for you mid-century design freaks
My heart is going thumpity-thump on seeing the new Alexander Girard alphabet blocks by House Industries. Yes okay, so the set is 100 bucks at maXimo design but the truth is, if I add up all the disposable plastic toys we've received for the kids, I could have owned about 60 of these sets--and actually owned something my kids could hand down to their own kids.

The blocks, besides being utterly gorgeous in both color and typography, are all US made out of sustainable Michigan-grown basswood. (Love the idea of supporting Michigan industry these days.) And of course the inks are non-toxic and safe for curious little fingers and mouths. Although for $100 I think I'd save them until we certain we were past the "eat your toys" stage. -Liz

Find Alexander Girard alphabet blocks from House Industries on sale at maXimo


[via modmom]

More in KidsView all picks →

Q&A with children's author Sophie Blackall

Q&A with children's author Sophie Blackall

Cool Mom Picks readers, we are so excited to launch a new series for you. We are obsessed book lovers over here at the CMP headquarters, and we have a particular soft spot for children's books (even though we're moving our kids into coll…

The sweetest back-to-school tradition

The sweetest back-to-school tradition

Back-to-school season doesn't have to be all backpacks, supply lists, and new sneakers. Sometimes the best way to mark a new school year is with something that feels a little more fun—and a lot less practical. Enter Build-A-Bear , where …

Shiekh makes the back-to-school shoe hunt easier

Shiekh makes the back-to-school shoe hunt easier

Back-to-school shopping has a funny way of turning into a negotiation. Parents want shoes that are comfortable and durable. Kids want the pair everyone will notice in the hallway. Luckily, Shiekh makes it a little easier to keep everyone…