Jane Goodall Brings Her Love of Wildlife Straight Into Children’s Rooms

I’ve had the good fortune of interviewing a lot of cool people (so. many.) here at Clever, and I’ve seen my fair share of exciting collaborations. But when I got the email asking if I wanted to have a one-on-one Zoom call with the inimitable Dr. Jane Goodall, you could say I was thrilled—and a little surprised. It’s not often you get to interview the world’s foremost expert on chimpanzees when you write about home decor, but minutes into the interview, I could tell Dr. Jane was unwaveringly herself, and her main prerogative is conservation. 

With a collection of 31 pieces, including textiles, toys, and kids’ furniture, the new Crate & Kids x Jane Goodall line is intended to raise awareness and educate both parents and kids about the importance of conservation and how it impacts the lives of people, animals, and the environment. Anytime I brought up a fabulous animal print chair or a super cute botanical quilt, Dr. Jane was quick to bring me back to reality—one of her main efforts in this collaboration is keeping up the conversation about the importance of leading a more sustainable life. 

So while we really do love all these playful and beautiful pieces, from sleeping bags to quilts, we also love the message: Our planet is seeing the effects of climate change and we need to be aware. Creating and cultivating children’s curiosity about wildlife is one small step in a positive direction, and if a colorful snake pillow is going to lead the way, we’re here for it.

Jane Goodall Playhome

$199

Crate & Barrel

This is the ultimate wildlife-themed playhouse. Modeled after Jane's first research camp in Gombe, Tanzania, this playhouse will definitely inspire a little explorer.

Botanical Sleeping Bag

$119

Crate & Barrel

These cotton canvas and cotton jersey sleeping bags will make for extra exciting sleepovers. The patterns of multicolor vegetation and butterflies or vibrant shapes and colors are so fun and easy to clean.

Geo Block Small Nod Chair

$109

Crate & Barrel

Put this in the category of children's stuff I want for myself. This geo print chair is made from supportive polyfoam that's comfortable and durable.

Snake Pillow

$34

Crate & Barrel

Who doesn't want to snuggle up with a sweet, colorful snake?

Serengeti Organic Sheet Set

$79

Crate & Barrel

This organic sheet set has a playful polka dot pattern with a rich, blue background. Luckily it comes in up to a queen size, too.

Printed Play Chair Animal Print

$79

Crate & Barrel

These printed play chairs come in four different patterns (palm leafs, squiggles, and stripes), but the animal print is classically wild. 

Bonus: If you want to have your own time with Dr. Jane, there’s a live virtual event on October 28 where she’ll host a reading of her book Lion Family, and do a live Q&A to answer kids’ nature and animal questions.