An apron of their own

Helping adults with the "real" cooking is a treat for young kids, but doubly so when they have their very own apron to wear. Don't confine these handmade beauties to the kitchen--the machine washable aprons double as art smocks.

Etsy newcomer Chelsea Hampe of Jack & Norah offers a lovely vintage-style art smock/apron. The patchwork smock has an easy-on design--nothing to tie at the neck or waist--so young kids can put it on without help. The Washington crafter is a full-time nanny to four children, so we trust she knows a little something about keeping kids clean while working at the easel or in the kitchen! $16 at Jack & Norah

On the brighter end of the spectrum is the striped children's apron from Portland's Lolly Tots. Love that jaunty dinosaur! Handy pockets hold markers or spoons, and the adjustable straps at the neck will give you several years worth of length. $35 at Lolly Tots