I heard it was officially Blue Monday this week… you know, the most depressing day of the year. Well, I’ll admit the weather’s pretty miserable and I wouldn’t say no to a holiday in the sun, but every place I look online in the kids’ design world people are smiling. That’s right, despite gloomy global news, I’m pleased to say that lots of funny, happy faces are popping up on children’s products! And I for one am not complaining.

If you’re down in the post-holiday dumps or need perking up a bit, here are six mood-lifting playthings to make you and your little ones smile. Reasons to be Cheerful, Part One:

Petit Prince Pillow
Available at Hello Milky

As you can see, there are some really sweet textiles for kids out right now. Le Petit Prince is a favorite book in our house, so I know my three would love this mini Little Prince cushion. Parents will also appreciate the fact that it’s made from 100% linen, printed with eco-friendly, non-toxic water-based inks, and stuffed with 100% recycled PET fiber. Smiles all around!

Friendly Face Memory Game
Available at Des Enfantillages

If you’re looking for some small, portable friends to keep your kids company when traveling, for example, this cute 20-piece memory game is perfect. Handmade and handpainted with love by the inspiring Montreal brand Des Enfantillages, these ten tiny faces will help stimulate memory and observation.

Handmade Wooden Pull-Toy
Design by Tsuyoshi Miyazaki

Wooden toy fans are in for a treat when they visit Tsuyoshi Miyazaki’s website Atelier-Fu. Switch on Google Translate or a similar service and enjoy discovering this maker’s funny, endearing playthings. The set of stacking teeth caught my eye on Pinterest, leading me to this happy world of smiles, color, and wooden wonders. I love these little pull-along toys! You’ll find a list of Japanese stockists here.

Bunny and Bear Play Chairs 
Available at Oeuf 
Face stickers accessories available here

Speaking of wood, Oeuf, one of my favorite innovative kids brands, has been busy designing super new play chairs and a table for little ones. Made from bent plywood, and in the shape of a bunny and a bear (set of 2), these chairs already look fun in their natural form, but can also be decorated with Oeuf’s fabric face stickers (available at the end of January).

Guess Who’s Coming For Breakfast? Sweatshirt
Available at Bobo Choses

Last but certainly not least, if you like playful, comfortable kids clothes, Bobo Choses’ new SS15 collection is filled with fresh feel-good vibes. The “Guess Who’s Coming For Breakfast” line features monsters, funny eyed friends, and oodles of color – just what the doctor ordered to make your kiddos smile from ear to ear.

Pictured at top: Little Mr. Teddy from Ferm Living’s New SS15 Collection (Available Mid-March).

A fun addition to any home, this modern teddy bear cushion is made from 100% organic cotton and filled with feathers and down. Soft, cuddly, and full of character, this little fellow could easily double up as a plush.