Shopping for a 4-year-old, a new baby and a 10-year-old in one trip is its own kind of holiday puzzle. The Modern Munchkin Co. on Government Street is built to make that a little easier.

The shop began with a mom who loves good design and couldn't find the kinds of kids' products she wanted in her hometown, so she went looking for them and brought them back to Baton Rouge. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, she always figured she'd run a business someday; she just didn't expect it to be one for kids. The shop marked its first birthday in early 2025 and reopened at its current Mid City home late that year.

What's on the shelves

The Modern Munchkin Co. focuses on toys, books and lifestyle goods for families, with an emphasis on brands that use sustainable materials, manufacturing and packaging. Browsing is organized two ways. Shop by category for wooden toys, sensory play, art supplies, books, games and travel-friendly picks, or shop by age, from newborns to big kids ages 9 to 12, with a section for grownups, too.

For stocking stuffers and class gift swaps, there's a dedicated gifts-for-$20 section, and gift cards are available for the relatives who would rather let the kids choose.

More than a store

The shop is set up to be interactive, with play encouraged. It hosts regular community events and has a dedicated event room for parties and milestone celebrations, and it even hosts mahjong. Can't make it during open hours? Online orders can be picked up from a 24/7 pickup locker, and orders of $75 or more ship free.

Hours and location

The Modern Munchkin Co. is at 5466 Government St. It's open Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It's closed Sunday and Monday, with Sundays reserved for private events.

Photo courtesy of The Modern Munchkin Co.