November 10th from 11:00 to 2:00pm
Brookside Toy and Science will join over 500 stores across the country to celebrate the third annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day. As a child, nothing compared to the enchanted feeling of shopping for toys at your local toy store. Gazing with wonder at the aisles of exciting choices…holding your new toy for the very first time…anticipation building inside you as you finally took your new gifts home.
"When you shop at an independent toy store, you are entering a universe of play possibilities," explains Kathleen McHugh, President of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA). "Neighborhood Toy Store Day is about celebrating the role the local store plays in the community. We are highlighting the expertise your local store has in selecting just the right toy to help your child grow and learn through play."
As part of the festivities, Brookside Toy and Science will offer a varity of activties. Entertainment will include the Kansas City YoYo Club, a Speed Stack demonstration, and a special guest appearance by Mrs. Fisher Cat from Calico Critters. Their facebook page will keep you updated! This year a portion of the day’s sales will be donated to FIRE, the Foundation for Inclusive Religious Education.
“It’s very important for consumers to understand the uniqueness and outstanding quality of toys found at their local toy store versus a national chain,” McHugh stated. “Many of the toys you see at independently owned toy stores are not advertised on television and are mostly made by small manufacturers.”
Mary Jo Ward, Owner of Brookside Toy and Science explained, “With our expert understanding of how kids play, our knowledgable staff can recommend toys that deliver the highest value, inviting imaginative discovery and encouraging creative thinking.”
Family owned and located in Brookside since 1964, we are truly a Kansas City institution. In fact, Brookside Toy and Science is among the oldest toy stores in the country. Consumers can be confident that more of the dollars spent in local, independently-owned stores, stay in the community—25% percent more in contrast with national chains, according to the 3/50 Project. Resident business owners pour more money and energy back into the community in the form of tax dollars, charitable contributions and participation in local initiatives.
Owner, Jim Ward describes Brookside Toy and Science like this. “Take a trip back in time to an old fashioned and unique ‘mom and pop’ toy store. We are often compared to a museam. I have amassed a collection of oddities that are well worth your visit. We are proud to be consistantly recognized as Kansas City’s most loved family destination.”
McHugh urged shoppers to take this opportunity to be part of a celebration of community and to get to know their neighborhood toy store on Neighborhood Toy Store Day.