When I was growing up in Ohio, we had a wonderful local toy shop, Larson's, which had two locations - one near my dad's work and a second that was within walking distance of my home. I have so many memories of walking or riding my bike up to Larson's, just to see what I felt were THE BEST when it came to toys...they had to have been the best because they weren't like anything you would find at a big chain store and no video games! I would walk in and be greeted, by name, and be allowed to ask questions and try out some of the toys. They would even loan me a paper and pencil so I could write out a little list to remember what I saw.
I have carried these experiences, of growing up in a community with Larson's and so many other small businesses, into adulthood and definitely into how we navigate living in a city like Chicago. I love connecting to the local people and their businesses because they are the ones that help define and make our neighborhoods better and this month is the perfect time to get out and support your local toy stores!
Neighborhood toy stores and specialty toy retailers across the country celebrate Neighborhood Toy Store Day on the second Saturday in November, but the focus lasts all month long. Spearheaded by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), the annual observance asks shoppers to remember the local businesses at the heart of the toy industry as they kick off the holiday shopping season. Scheduled ahead of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, the day offers shoppers discounts, special events and hands-on experiences with children's toys that remind us all how specialty toy stores help customers curate the most perfect, unique gifts for parents nationwide.
"A decade ago, ASTRA launched Neighborhood Toy Store Day to celebrate stores in the community, showcase the value of shopping local, and demonstrate the joy of play throughout the ages," said Kimberly Mosley, President of ASTRA. "These retailers are how the toy industry began and where customers can create special memories with their families. In neighborhood toy stores, shoppers can enjoy the expertise of local toy store owners, a high-quality selection of the best toys and games, and a tailored and personal shopping experience that is tailored for the best kind of play for each family."
Included in the selection at many participating stores are the toys and games that made ASTRA's Best Toys for Kids Award list announced earlier this year at ASTRA Marketplace and Academy. The list featured toys that expert toy retailers across the country consider to be the highest quality and most sought-after items to have on 2022 holiday shopping lists.
Visit some of our favorite local toy shops this month!
 |  |
 |  |
 |  |
Visit astratoy.org to search for an ASTRA-approved specialty toy retailer or neighborhood toy store nationwide
