Friends by Design: Inkoos

Sometimes, my 3-year-old favors her bunny over Mommy. Her menagerie of stuffed rabbits, bears and other furry friends rivals the residents of the Bronx Zoo, and their many adventures are fueled by her active imagination. Just this afternoon, an elephant joined a skunk in outer space; they met aboard a rocket ship (I kid you not). I don't take it personally when I'm not invited along on these outings; I secretly savor just listening in to a young, creative mind at play. Because my preschooler's stuffed animal stories can become especially detailed at times-and her friends may don different appearances or turn into new creatures altogether-these plush playthings seem to cry out for a updated look. If you know of an equally imaginative child who relishes her play friends with alternate personalities, Inkoos may be right up your alley. They are the latest in the assortment of washable toys that kids can draw or color on, pop into the washing machine and then color all over again. We like that these guys come with clip-on markers, enabling you to take this show on the road, along with an Inkspiration Wheel with plenty of design ideas. Mini Inkoos are perfect for this time of year when you're on the go and looking to keep your little one strapped in with an engaging activity. Even if they're off on a rocket ship to outer space...

In a Nutshell: With Inkoos, it's OK to color on your teddy bear again. And again. And again...

At the Talking Walnut, we're NUTS about kids and their things. For more news and views, visit talkingwalnut.com