Stuff We Like: Role Playing

Whether your child dreams of being an astronaut or a zookeeper, he can try on (literally) 11 different specialties with My First Career Gear outfits. The shirts have a simple hook-and-eye closure, making slipping into new identities a breeze. In addition to the six careers shown, designs include a chef, doctor, firefighter, police officer, and road crew worker. (Fits most ages 3-5; $13.95 for each shirt; hats sold separately: $9.95 for racing cap; $4.50 per hat for other designs; aeromaxtoys.com)  

Everyday Magic

Most children need only a little prompting to enter a world with a whole lot of imagination. Help them get in character any time by lacing these wings or lightning bolts onto their shoes. Your kids can “fly” home from school or tap into their “thunder god” powers at any moment (now those are fantasies waiting to happen!). These so-called Shwings are among an array of imaginative dress-up items from Garnet Hill, including a variety of acrylic mohair hats (practical and fun!). (Available Oct. 1; $7.50 per pair of Schwings, or $6 each for 3 or more; $39.50 per hat; garnethill.com)   Also see: Dollhouses for Open-Ended Play