Reminders of the tanking economy are everywhere in NYC, from slashed prices to must-close signs to the dreaded pink slips that have found their way into many locals’ hands. One such reality check came this week in the form of a note on the the door of City Cricket, a great children’s shop on Hudson Street that carried handmade blankets, sleek old-fashioned leather rockers and sweet ensembles for babes. The note said that the shop would close its doors March 1, but when we called, the message stated that it had already shuttered. This is happening to businesses all over the city, like the Midtown outpost of Zeyna and Philippe, which Time Out Kids had planned to feature as our February “Recently Opened” pick until it went belly-up just weeks after debuting. It’s so sad to part with stores both new and old, especially once you’ve grown attached to the items and the owners. Please share your stories of your favorite NYC kids’ haunts that have closed. We don’t want them to go out quietly!

• Pint-size reporter sends plea to Obama

Damon Weaver just has one little request: To interview the President elect during his inauguration. Once you watch his request below, you’ll agree that he’s pretty hard to resist. Do you think Barack will put his Presidential obligations on hold to chat with the 10-year-old?

• Kiddie couture on the rise

Most retailers experienced one of the worst shopping seasons in history (though amazon.com claims to have had one of its best), but the designer childrenswear market seems to be doing better than ever. High-profile clothiers like Jean-Paul Gaultier are developing lines for tots while Burberry and other upscale retailers are opening shops devoted to the shorter set. Recession? What recession?

• Jonas brothers overload continues

It’s safe to say that the Jonas brothers juggernaut hasn’t run its course. In May, the new show JONAS hits Disney airwaves, and perezhilton.com has a sneak peek into what is destined to be a tween TV staple. Click here to watch the clip.

• Cash for kid pics

Bristol Palin has reportedly sold photos of her baby boy, Tripp (hey, it’s better than Bronx) for $300,000 to People. The tot was born just five days ago on December 28.

• Are you resolution ready?

You probably already have about a billion New Year’s resolutions you plan to tackle this year, but we loved this list from Mommy Track’d. Sure, some of them are obvious, but most are worth keeping in mind as you embark on another chaotic kid-filled year.