Toy Box to Celebrate Neighborhood Toy Store Day

Along with the Toy Box, more than 600 stores from coast to coast will participate.

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.

On November 9, The Toy Box will join over 600 stores across the country to celebrate the third annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day.“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, The Toy Box will offer free cookies, balloons, prizes and give-aways, surprise discounts at check out.

“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.”

Independent toy stores can even help you find top toys for the children on your list this holiday season with help from The 2013 Best Toys for Kids Award list.

Nancy Buechner of The Toy Box explained, “With our expert understanding of how kids play, ASTRA members have created a list of toys that deliver the highest value, inviting imaginative discovery and encouraging creative thinking. We have many of the toys on the list in stock. This is a great time to start holiday shopping. Let you child browse and fill out a ‘wish list’ for future reference. As always, we provide free gift wrap with purchase! ”

And 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 everything from tax dollars to charity donations to participating in local initiatives through civic associations and area chambers of commerce.

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.

“By shopping locally, consumers will find great toys while supporting vibrant communities and sustainable economic development. Visit your neighborhood toy store and you may bring home more than just the perfect gift, you’ll share the spirit of the season.”

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