By DUMBO NYC

The greatest part of Dumbo is its dramatic structures. It's the large former industrial buildings, the Manhattan Bridge base anchorage, the Brooklyn Bridge base, the dramatic streetscapes paved with Belgian Blocks, and the distinct architectures are some of the reasons that the Landmarks Preservation Commission granted landmark status to the Dumbo Historic District in December 2007. These buildings and views define Dumbo's character and although the historic character remains, the still-evolving residential neighborhood brings new residents and visitors to the area.

New residents with children are fortunate to have three children's stores in the neighborhood, each with their unique products. All of them have a vested interest in the character and involvement with the arts, culture, and family-friendly community.

Half Pint, 55 Washington Street, Brooklyn (718-875-4007):

Owned by Randi, Jenny, and Melissa, Half Pint has been in their Washington Street location since September 2005. They carry stylish clothes from labels such as Paul Frank, Tea Collection, and their own private label of super soft Brooklyn Bridge tees, which would even be cool for adults. They also carry toys, Bugaboo, MacLaren, and Phil&Ted strollers, and a selection of shoes for infants and babies. Half Pint not only provides kids products but they're also involved in the community and host and sponsor many neighborhood events.

Pomme, This store is now closed.

Pomme is owned by two mothers, Stephanie and Samantha (who are French and Belgian), who opened their store in November 2005. Pomme is a gallery-like space with carefully curated clothing and classic toys from Europe and Brooklyn. The toys and clothing are more classic than trendy, with girls dresses and outfits and rubber dinosaurs and hand screened t-shirts for boys. They also carry modern cribs for the urban condo, French and Japanese children's books, and space saving collapsible cardboard kids play-stoves and homes. Pomme hosts children's photography sessions and award-winning haircuts every Wednesdays and Saturdays.

ModernTots, 53 Pearl Street, Brooklyn (718-488-8293):

This store is now closed.

The founders of ModernTots, Bruce and Sarah, opened their store in January 2007. They carry sophisticated modern furniture with clean lines, and toys, strollers, and clothing. Among the products they carry are the popular Ugly Dolls, art supplies, and eco-friendly toys. But their niche is modern furniture for the children's rooms. Bruce also owns his own line of furniture designs of sustainable material. ModernTots carries other Brooklyn-based furniture designers. They host art classes and a language immersion playgroups for toddlers as young as 18 months old.

DUMBO Neighborhood Resources:

DUMBO Parents List-serv: DUMBO Parents