nervous kindergarten with backpack going to school

How to Prepare Preschoolers and Kindergarteners for the Classroom

"Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."
A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh)

Holly Hagen
A Birthday Gift That Makes 4-Year-Olds Feel Super

A Birthday Gift That Makes 4-Year-Olds Feel Super

Finding unique birthday gifts that 4 year olds love and parents approve is hard. Quality gift idea for pretend play for boys and gifts.

Holly Hagen
Best toys graphic with line drawings of kids enjoying unscripted play for a creative and educational experiences

Best Kid Toys That Inspire Pretend Role Playing

Discover 5 timeless unscripted toys that have been used for generations. These toys will spark creativity, build confidence, and boost development through role-playing for girls and boys, ages 3–8.

Holly Hagen
What to give a 3 year old boy that parents approve of?

What Do You Get a 3-Year-Old Who Has Everything?

When you're shopping for a 3-year-old who already has a mountain of toys, it can feel impossible to find something that stands out. You want a gift that’s not just another plastic thing they’ll forget in a week—you want something magical. Something meaningful. Something that says you’re special.

Holly Hagen
Unlocking the Power of Open-Ended Play: Fostering Healthy Childhood Development

Unlocking the Power of Open-Ended Play: Fostering Healthy Childhood Development

Explore the importance of open-ended play for healthy childhood development. Discover tips for screen-free activities that foster creativity and social skills.

Holly Hagen
Creative Capes Photo Contest

Time for Your Superhero to Shine!

Each year I open up my Creative Capes Photo Contest for customers to get creative in capturing the joy of their little one as their superhero self! Are you ready to show off your one-of-a kind superhero? Now is the time to send in your best pics to show off your hero to your the Creative Capes Community! 

Holly Hagen
A Childhood Memory for the Holidays

A Childhood Memory for the Holidays

Have fun with art, don't worry about perfection and gather your courage to reach for the stars.
Holly Hagen
Last Show of the Season

Last Show of the Season

Our show season ends with the ultimate Christmas shopping experience at The Bizarre Bazaar! Read more...
Holly Hagen
The destination for holiday shopping in Northern VA!

The destination for holiday shopping in Northern VA!

Creative Capes will be joining 300 artisans in Chantilly, VA for the Northern VA Christmas Market. Come to the Dulles Expo Center for you holiday shopping Nov 8-10th.
Holly Hagen
A mom's perspective on Halloween

A mom's perspective on Halloween

This holiday is for ALL ages so have the entire family get dressed-up for Halloween! The costume possibilities are endless so let the creativity ensue. 
Holly Hagen
A Gift Guide to Support Creative Play and Small Businesses

A Gift Guide to Support Creative Play and Small Businesses

Explore Holly's Picks of Imaginative Gifts for your holiday shopping. This hand selected list of children gift ideas from fellow artisans will support imaginative thinking and encourage unplugged playtime! Discover gifts that your little ones will treasure and parents approve. Make a big impact by shopping small for your holiday and birthday gifts!

Holly Hagen
Cape Mobile is on the Road Again!

Cape Mobile is on the Road Again!

Mark your calendar-- Two Family Friendly Art Festivals you won't want to miss the first weekend of October. The weather forecast is perfect for both Art on the Ave (Saturday, Oct 5th) and Takoma Street Festival (Sunday, Oct 6th). Stop by my booth and say hi!
Holly Hagen