Time to celebrate shopping local! As mentioned in more than one of my previous posts, the Amercian Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) is near and dear to my heart and I love supporting their annual event called Neighborhood Toy Store Day which occurs this year on Saturday, November 9, 2013. I received several quality toys […]
Discover the Best Toys for Kids
Where you do your holiday shopping matters just as much as what you buy. Supporting local stores provides real benefits to your community. Local businesses create jobs and help fund your town’s essential services such as public schools, police and fire departments through their tax dollars. (Read more about why my experience serving on a […]
Have You Discovered “The WooHoo Factor”?
As a mom, I know that many of the toys advertised on TV look amazing but then sit unused in the toy box. When I enter my local toy store, I see items that I know my kids will love and use. With a special eye for relevance and all out fun, small toy store owners handpick […]
Supporting The Shop Around the Corner
Looking for a last-minute Hanukkah present or last-minute Christmas present? Visit your local toy store! There are so many benefits to shopping locally. One of the big benefits: education. Local stores provide personalized service. I have a great relationship with my local store owner, and I have appreciated some of their tips and product recommendations. My neighborhood toy store carries unique educational toys. But I bet you didn’t know that you are actually supporting your local schools when you shop locally.
Shop Local: Support Neighborhood Toy Stores
Going to the toy store is a magical experience and a real treat for kids. Local toy stores often have impressive displays of stuffed animals, dolls and trains. My son’s favorite spot is the train table at our local store.
While he plays happily with Thomas the Tank Engine and friends, I have the opportunity to discover some high-quality toys unavailable at the big box stores. And I can count on the friendly store owner to provide expert advice on the best gifts for the kids on my holiday list (and free gift wrapping on my purchases).
Another helpful source of shopping advice is the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) 2009 Best Toys for Kids Award Winners. Over 500 of America’s top independent and neighborhood toy retailers selected the Best Toys for Kids based on their experience and understanding of what kids like.
